|
The Division of Code Enforcement is the governmental unit which deals with properties and
property owners on a day-to-day basis to ensure that minimum maintenance and repair standards
for all existing structures throughout the community are met. Division staff ensure that
residential and commercial structures are maintained to the minimum standards set forth in
the International Property Maintenance Code.
Division activities are organized into two
programs:
Comprehensive Inspections: Structures in neighborhoods throughout the community are
surveyed by the staff to determine the need for maintenance and repair. These surveys are
used to designate specific structures that could benefit from comprehensive inspection.
After inspection, a Notice is sent to the owner. The Notice points out the repairs that
need to be made and sets a time frame for those repairs. The property is reinspected to
monitor the progress of the repairs and eventually to determine that the property is
again in compliance with minimum standards.
Complaint Inspections: Complaints originating from tenants, neighbors and/or other
concerned parties are received by division staff who inspect the properties and note violations.
A Notice is sent informing property owners of the required repairs and time limitations
for those repairs. Properties are reinspected for compliance with the Notice at designated
times during this process.
Demolition of a structure can be ordered when a structure poses a danger to occupants or the community.
Penalities: If the owner does not cooperate in making the required repairs to a property, Lexington's
Code of Ordinances provides avenues for civil penalties and/or court prosecution.
Home Inspectors: The Division of Code Enforcement no longer issues home inspector licenses. Anyone performing
home inspections in Fayette County must be licensed. Licensing requirements include testing and continuing
education.
Licenses are issued through the State Department of Housing Buildings and Construction at
(502) 573-0364. SEC. 12-3. ORD. NO. 223-2004.
Sidewalks: Property owners are responsible for the maintenance of the public sidewalk in front of their
property. For residential homeowners only, grant money may be available to assist with making the needed
repairs of sidewalks.
If you feel a sidewalk needs to be inspected, you may call the Division of Code Enforcement, who will inspect the sidewalk.
If the Division of Code Enforcement marks the residential sidewalk for repairs, the owner occupant
may be entitled to financial assistance. Funds are depleted rapidly, so reinbursement is given on a
"first completed - first served" basis.
Other Property Laws: Code Enforcement provides information and insures compliance with other
laws regarding private property, such as:
- Bushes obstructing sidewalks
- Junked vehicles
- Litter
- Weeds
Penalties: Failure by an owner to correct violations concerning junk cars, weeds or trash and
debris can result in the government contracting to have the work performed or vehicle towed and placement of a lien
against the property.
"Right of Way Signs"
The Division of Code Enforcement assists the Division of Building Inspection in enforcing
“Right of Way Signs.” Under chapter 17 of the code of ordinances, it shall be illegal to place,
erect or attach any sign that does not have a legal permit in the public right of way.
Specifically, 17-4(g) states no sign shall be attached to any tree, utility pole, streetlight
or dilapidated structure. Additionally, 17-4(j) states no sign may be located within the
required sight triangle of any intersection, nor within or projecting into the public or
private street right-of-way, except as specifically permitted. Code Enforcement will
remove the signs and dispose of them.
|
