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Planning & Community
Development Department
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Code Enforcement The Code Enforcement Division enforces building and property maintenance codes for property in Ashland. The building codes govern construction practices on all buildings and structures. The property maintenance code governs the appearance and maintenance of existing structures and property. While some may see the duties of the Code Enforcement Division as a burden or even intrusive; the City codes are for the benefit of all in the community. They promote health and safety and help preserve property values. Building Codes Property owners in Ashland are required to obtain a building permit prior to the construction, placement, addition, alteration, or replacement of any structure. Structures are not limited to houses and commercial buildings. They also include, but are not limited to, fences, carports, decks, sheds, pools, porches, patio rooms, garages, and railings. Pre-built structures such as sheds that are moved onto or within a property also require a permit prior to placement. A building permit is necessary to ensure minimum construction standards and zoning regulations are met. Permit requirements apply to property owners performing their own work as well as contractors. The property owner is ultimately responsible for any work performed on his or her property. A permit application and supporting documents such as a site plan and wall section must be submitted for review. The size and type of project determines the amount of information necessary. The time required for review can be two to four weeks, depending on the type of project and workload of the staff. Some minor residential projects can be reviewed and a permit issued in only a few days. Property Maintenance Code The property maintenance code and related City ordinances govern the general condition and appearance of existing structures and properties. Many items are covered but the most common are junk (inoperable or unlicensed) vehicles, overgrown grass and weeds, accumulation of trash and rubbish, and the general condition of structures. Due to limited staff, property maintenance codes are enforced primarily by answering complaints. Staff will also inspect nearby properties while investigating complaints. When time allows, the Code Enforcement staff will perform neighborhood sweeps during which all properties along a street or group of streets are inspected. This is done in areas that have a history of property maintenance violations or excessive complaints. Violations Property owners who are found to be in violation of the building codes, property maintenance code, or other related city ordinances are sent a notice with a specific amount of time to remedy the violation. If the time allowed is insufficient due to special circumstances, the property owner is urged to contact the code enforcement officer who sent the notice. In some cases the officer can allow more time. If a property owner does not resolve a violation within the time that was given, the code enforcement officer will issue a citation to the property owner. In the past a citation required an appearance in Boyd District Court. In 2002 the Ashland Board of City Commissioners passed an ordinance creating a Code Enforcement Board. Under the new system, a city citation requires the payment of a fine or the filing of an appeal within seven days. If an appeal is requested, it is heard by the Code Enforcement Board. The board is made up of five Ashland citizens who volunteer their time to serve. At an appeal hearing the board will hear testimony from the code enforcement officer and the property owner. A decision will then be made as to whether the property owner is guilty. If not found guilty, the violation will be dismissed. If the owner is found guilty, the board will set a deadline for the violation to be corrected and can levy or probate a fine. The property owner can appeal action taken by the board to Boyd District Court. Failure to pay a fine can result in the City of Ashland placing a lien on the property and taking action against the property owner to compel payment. Contact Information The Code Enforcement Division is located in the City Building at 1700 Greenup Avenue, Room 208. The telephone number is 606-327-2026. The fax number is 606-325-8412. Office hours are Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Prior to visiting the office it is recommended that you call to make an appointment. Staff members are often out of the office performing inspections. You may also contact the code enforcement staff by e-mail at code@ashlandky.org. |