Enforcement Code Compliance Tips and Information:

Here are a few tips that can lead to greater compliance with City code and potentially reduce complaints from neighbors. Reprinted from www.westerville.org.

Residents who report an issue can contact us by phone or email. But do remember that reports are not confidential. Sometimes we get asked who called in a complaint and we are obligated to tell them. It’s public record. However, that usually doesn’t detract someone from making the call if something needs to be addressed in their community. Also, it’s important to remember that we code enforcement officers can document only what we can observe from public property, like the sidewalk. If there is something that needs to be seen, the neighbor may need to grant permission to come on their property to view it.

View the City of Westerville Code of Ordinances online at www.westerville.org >> Government >> Codified Ordinances.

Home Construction: The best advice is to call the Building Department at 614901-6650 before beginning any home construction project, including (but not limited to) decks, pools, garages, antennas, patios and patio covers, and room additions. There are many issues to be considered, including setbacks, easements, lot coverage, utility locations and deed restrictions. If a contractor is being trusted to handle the permit process, the homeowner should make sure to keep a copy of all applicable permits before the work starts. While most contractors understand and comply with the process, some do not, and the homeowner is ultimately responsible for any work that has been completed. Lots of time, effort and money could be wasted.

Homeowners with questions about zoning compliance regarding their home or a nearby property can call 614-901-6660; for building code or related matters, call 614901-6650. Also, keep in mind that your homeowner association may have additional restrictions over and above city code.

Excessive Trash or Debris: If you observe excessive trash or debris in your neighborhood, it may be in violation of city code. Call 614-901-6660 to report the situation, and staff will investigate the circumstances.

Recreational Vehicles: In 2004, City Council adopted amendments to the residential parking regulations to restrict the parking of recreational vehicles (RV). City Code now reads that RVs (e.g., boats, campers) must be parked behind the front building line (setback) and be on a paved/hard surface. There is allowance for loading and unloading (e.g., for weekend trips) not to exceed a certain amount of time. If you have questions about these limitations, call 614-901-6660.

Fences: Anyone who wants to erect a fence must first obtain permission from the Department of Planning and Development. This can be done by calling 614-901-6660 or bringing in a plot plan to the Planning & Development Department, 64 E. Walnut St. While this may seem like an unnecessary step, height, placement and some subdivision deed restrictions make it necessary. There is no fee for this service.

Grass/Weeds: The maximum allowable height for grass and/or weeds in Westerville is eight (8) inches, reduced from twelve (12) inches in 2006. This limitation is enforced only between April and October.

Garage Sales: No zoning permits are required to conduct garage sales. The only garage sale stipulations are that only two garage sales per year are allowed per home, and they cannot last more than three days at a time. Signs are not permitted in the public right-of-way or on poles and will be removed.

360

Number of kindergarten-bound children who will participate in Westerville Safety City this summer.

For 35 years, Westerville Safety City has taught children ages five and six critical safety education. These children, preparing to enter kindergarten, learn about how to avoid dangerous situations. The 2012 class starts on Monday, June 4. For more information, please visit www.westervillesafetycity.com.

Mark Your Calendars

Highlands Park Aquatic Center

Opening Day: Saturday, May 26, 11 a.m.

245 S. Spring Rd.

(614) 901-POOL or www.westerville.org

Field of Heroes

May 25-28 (Opening ceremony:

Saturday, May 26 at 9:30 a.m.)

Westerville Sports Complex, 325 N. Cleveland Ave. www.fieldofheroes.org

Produced by the Rotary Club of Westerville, Sunrise

Party at the Creek

(see page 9)

Thursday, May 31, 6-8 p.m.

Alum Creek Park North, 221 W. Main St. www.westerville.org

Honor Flight

Pancake Breakfast

Saturday, June 9, 7:30-10 a.m.

American Legion Hall, 393 College Ave. www.facebook.com/westervilleforhonorflight

Eat breakfast with members of the Westerville community to support sending WWII veterans to Washington, D.C.