Frequently Asked Questions about City Code

Q: My neighbor has a vehicle that hasn’t moved in some time. Is this permitted?

A: City code 5-9-4 (B) requires that all vehicles stored outside be currently licensed and operable. Many residents have vehicles that aren’t frequently driven, but to meet the definition of a junk or inoperable vehicle, they must be clearly inoperable (flat tire, substantial body damage, for example) or have expired tabs. 

Q: Are there any regulations on grass length and overgrown yards?

A: City Code 5-9-4 (D) states grass should not exceed a height of 8 inches. Please be mindful to keep your yard cut and free of brush piles. Overgrown yards and brush piles can harbor rodents and animals and give the property the appearance of vacancy which may attract vandals and crime.

Q: What are the rules on trash removal?

A: City Code 8-6-5 states garbage, refuse, and other solid waste must be removed and properly disposed of every 14 days. Garbage cans can be stored at the curb 12 hours prior to and after pick-up but must otherwise be stored near the home or garage or in an enclosed area. Garbage should be stored in watertight containers with lids. Any garbage that cannot be contained must be secured to prevent the attraction of scavengers and prevent litter from blowing around.

Q: Are compost piles permitted?

A: Per City Code 8-6-6, compost piles must be screened from view and fenced or enclosed on 3 sides to prevent the scattering of yard waste. Only yard waste produced on the property can be composted on the site and the pile should be managed in a manner to prevent odor, harborage of animals, and stockpiling of material that won’t readily decompose within a calendar year. 

Q: What are the requirements for a swimming pool fence?

A: Per City Code 10-15-22, swimming pools are required to have a minimum 4-foot non-climbable fence or a cover conforming to ASTM F 1346-91, "Standard Performance Specifications For Safety Covers And Labeling Requirements For All Covers For Swimming Pools, Spas, And Hot Tubs" restricting access to the pool.  Please note: All pool fences require a building permit and covers require the approval of the Building Official.

Q: Are there any regulations on Home Businesses?

A: Home businesses are allowed in the city, but per City Code 10-15-26, must meet the following requirements:

• Engaged in only by persons residing in the subject dwelling.
• Conducted entirely within the dwelling, not in attached or detached accessory structures.
• Evidence of the occupation shall not be visible from the street.
• No signs other than those permitted in R districts are permitted.
• No stock in trade is stored on the premises.
• On site retail sales are not involved.
• Entrance to the home occupation is gained exclusively from within the dwelling.
• When the home occupation is a beauty/barber shop, entrance to the home occupation shall be a separate, direct entrance and shall not be from within the dwelling.

Q: Can I temporarily store a dumpster or roll-off box in the street?

A: City Code 5-9-4 (F) states roll-off boxes and dumpsters cannot be located on streets or within the right-of-way as they can pose a hazard for drivers and pedestrians to see and drive around. They must be stored on private property. Roll-off boxes and dumpsters cannot remain on the property more than three (3) months during a twelve (12) month period; provided, however, the director of Community Development may grant the responsible party an extension of an additional three (3) months if the magnitude of construction occurring on the property requires the use of a roll-off box or dumpster for such additional time.

Q: Is parking on your lawn permitted?

A: City Code 10-15A-3 states within all Residential districts, parking of a vehicle and/or recreational vehicle on grass or an unpaved area in the front yard is prohibited during much of the year (see below for exception). Parking is allowed on the grass in a side yard provided you are at least 5 feet from the side yard lot line, or in a back yard provided you are at least 8 feet from the rear yard lot line. Please note: Parking of automobiles may be allowed on grass in the front yard only during the winter parking ban period from November 1 through March 30. This exception does not include boats, trailers, or recreational vehicles.