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Frequently Asked Questions

Note: Some of these answers are in the process of updating due to
adoption of 07/01/06 Development Code.

Where do I find out if my property is in the floodplain? What does it mean if it is?

The Planning Office has copies of the FEMA floodplain insurance rate maps which generally indicate whether property is located in the 100-year regulatory floodplain. If the property is located in this area, new development must be constructed to the standards set out in the Zoning Ordinance.

Generally, residential construction must be elevated two feet above the regulatory flood elevation and non-residential construction (commercial and industrial) must be elevated one foot above the regulatory elevation. Prior to issuance of a building permit, a local (and perhaps state) floodplain development permit must be issued.

How do I find out where my front property line is?

Property corners should be pinned. If an owner cannot locate the pins, you may need to hire a surveyor to locate the property corners. A subdivision plat will provide the lot boundaries; however, the City does not have a survey crew that can go out and locate the corners. The front property line is not the same as the street curb. There is an area beyond the constructed street which is still public right-of-way where utilities and sidewalks may be located.

Where can I get a copy of my subdivision plat?

The official plat is recorded at the Register of Deeds Office located on the second floor of the County Courthouse at 11th and Massachusetts Street. Reduced copies are also on file in the City Public Works Department located on the ground floor of City Hall at 6th and Massachusetts Street.

Can I operate a business in my home?

The Zoning Ordinance [Section 20-537] identifies certain "home occupations" which are permitted in residential districts. The ordinance sets out specific standards related to the use of the property. Home occupations, in the City, may not have any employees who do not reside in the residence nor may there be any sales to customers on the premises.

Several college students have moved into the house next door. Is this legal in a single-family district?

For RS Districts, the Zoning Ordinance defines a family as "a person living alone, or two or more persons related by blood, marriage, or legal adoption, or a group of not more than three (3) persons not related by blood or marriage, living together as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit..." Therefore, a group of three unrelated individuals may occupy a single-family residence.

What is the deadline for submission of a site plan? What is typical timeframe for review?

Site plans submitted prior to noon each Tuesday are typically scheduled for placement on a City Commission agenda three to four weeks later. Multiple copies of a site plan are submitted to the Planning Office. These are distributed to various in-house departments and public utility agencies for review and comment. The Planning Office coordinates the review and prepares a report to the City Commission with recommendations for action. A building permit may not be issued [by the Neighborhood Resources Division] for a new development until a site plan has been approved and all conditions of approval have been met.

What are conditional uses?

The Zoning Ordinance states that it is necessary to give consideration to certain uses because they are unique in nature, require large land areas, require greater density, ...or more intensely dominate the area in which they are located than do other uses permitted in the district; however, the nature of such use makes it desirable that it be permitted to locate therein." Conditional uses include child care centers, recreation centers and nursing homes. The process for review of such uses includes a public hearing before the Planning Commission and approval by the City or County Commission prior to issuance of a building permit.