Code Enforcement Tips

Most Common Code Questions

Trash & Debris – Chapter 56, Article IV

  • Trash and debris are prohibited on any property at any time, with the exception of trash in approved containers and trash that is out for scheduled pickup at the appropriate time.
  • Trash includes, but is not limited to, things like tires, broken objects, objects that can hold water, material scraps (wood, metal, plastic, etc.), cardboard boxes, litter, grass clippings, tree trimmings and fallen branches, appliances, car parts and unused sand, dirt or mulch.

Vegetation – Chapter 56, Article V

  • Grass and weeds taller than eight inches in height are prohibited.
  • Tree limbs must be trimmed so they are always at least 14 feet above streets and paved alleys and at least seven feet over public sidewalks and pathways.

Outside Storage – Chapter 56, Article VI

  • Storing any objects outside in public view is prohibited unless the object is exempt from this law.
  • Exempt items include things like furniture designed to be left outdoors, trash and recycling carts that are stored properly, building materials that are associated with an active building permit and stored in a neat and safe manner and basketball goals set back at least 15 feet from the front property line.

Parking – Chapter 56, Article VII

  • Blocking a public sidewalk is prohibited.
  • Parking on an unimproved surface like grass or dirt is prohibited.
  • Parking on a surface that is not approved by the City’s code(s) is prohibited.
  • Vehicles for sale cannot be parked on a public street.
  • Driveways that are to be expanded, extended, or repaired must use the same material as the existing driveway.

Fences & Walls – Chapter 56, Article VIII

  • Fences/Walls must be kept in good, safe condition at all times.
  • Fence/Wall repairs must be of the same design, material, and color as the original fence.
  • Leaning fences must be repaired – using objects to prop up leaning fences is prohibited.

Inoperable & Junk Vehicles – Chapter 56, Article IX

  • Inoperable and Junk vehicles are prohibited in public view at all times. Vehicles are considered junk or inoperable if they have a flat tire(s), are leaking fluids, have a dead battery, are wrecked, are partially dismantled, etc.
  • A “vehicle” includes, but is not limited to, motor vehicles (cars, trucks, etc.), boats, recreational vehicles (RVs, ATVs, etc.), golf carts, farm equipment and trailers of any kind.

Minimum Property Standards (Interior & Exterior) – Chapter 56, Article XI

  • All buildings must display building numbers that are visible from a public street, at least four inches in height, and contrast with their background.
  • Pools must have barriers that meet the requirements of the Pool and Spa Code.
  • All exterior surfaces and objects must be maintained in good and safe condition. This includes but is not limited to, roofs, walls, windows and doors, decorative features, attachments, stairs and railings, balconies and porches, etc.
  • All equipment in a building must be in working order, including but not limited to plumbing, electrical, mechanical and heating and cooling equipment.

Code Enforcement Permits, Registrations & Certificates of Occupancy

Permits and registrations are required for all of the following:

  • Long-term rental properties
  • Short-term rental properties – Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.
  • Apartment complexes – with four or more dwelling units
  • Storage containers – PODs, etc.
  • Vacant buildings – over 150 days
  • Garage Sales – no more than two per calendar year

More Information