Code Enforcement Officer– Trent Yarter
When you decide to undertake a home improvement project, you probably spend time considering style, color, and whether you’ll need to hire a contractor or architect. But don’t forget one more, especially important step: Determining whether you will need a building permit from the city, and if so, obtaining it (or making sure your contractor will do so). Ordinance 347.3 contains the information you will need.
Why Do I Need a Building Permit?
Building permits are written authorizations issued by the city to construct a project. They are required for most construction or remodeling projects. Their purpose is to ensure the safety of the work and its compliance with building, construction, and zoning codes, for both the homeowners’ personal safety and public safety, along with broader considerations.
Code Enforcement officers are professionals who ensure that properties within their jurisdiction are following the zoning laws and building ordinances of the city. The officers is required to inspect properties and record violations as part of their regular assessment or in response to complaints. They must explain to property owners about building codes and zoning laws so that they can avoid confusion and increase awareness of all violations. Because code violations significantly impact your community, addressing them quickly is crucial.
- Print a copy of your Building or Development Application
- How to pay for a permit? Online Payments
- For a copy of the Planning and Zoning Ordinance 347.3, which includes information regarding code violations.
- Have additional Questions? Email the Code Enforcement Officer directly.
Typical Code Enforcement Violations
Property Maintenance Issues:
Zoning Violations
Health and Safety Hazards
Building Code Violations
Why Code Enforcement Matters
Public safety is perhaps the most important outcome of effective code enforcement. But, code enforcement’s long-term effects are far more reaching.
Code enforcement builds a sense of community. Because code enforcement mitigates so many problems, your community will be more united around its upkeep.
Code enforcement enhances economic development. New residents and businesses, as well as visitors, are attracted to a community that boasts amenities, including well-maintained streets, parks, and neighborhoods. The better your community, the more likely people will be willing to invest in it.
Code enforcement increases property values. Neighborhood blight brings property values down. Enforcing codes keeps neighborhoods strong, translating into higher values and more tax dollars.
Code enforcement improves quality of life. With higher property values and aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods, your residents will feel a sense of pride in their community.