City Code Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I park an RV, boat, trailer, etc. on my property?

A: In the R-2 and R-4 residential districts recreational equipment up to 24 feet in length may be parked or stored outdoors as follows:

1. One piece of recreational equipment per dwelling unit. When recreational equipment is on a trailer, the trailer and piece of recreational equipment shall be considered as one. Measurement does not include tongue of trailer or motor (if applicable).
2. On any rear or side lot not within five feet of the lot line on concrete or blacktop.
3. In the front lot, not within 15 feet of the curb on concrete or blacktop.
4. Recreational equipment may not be parked or stored on a public street.

Q: Are there any ordinances affecting the placement of play structures, etc.?

A:

1. Swing sets, sandboxes, play structures, dog kennels, concrete slabs, satellite dishes and similar structures shall not be located closer than 5 feet from the side or rear property lines, and shall not be located within the front yard setback.

2. Basketball hoops, hockey nets, and similar items may not be located on a public street.

Q: Can my neighbors keep their trash can in their driveway?

A: In all districts, except in agricultural uses, all waste material, debris, refuse, recycling, yard waste, or garbage shall be kept in an enclosed building which is constructed of the same materials as the principal structure or properly contained in a closed container designed for such purposes. Containers must be stored indoors or be fully hidden from view. The owner of vacant land shall be responsible for keeping such land free of refuse.

Q: I would like to expand my driveway; are there any ordinances affecting this?

A: Driveways must be a minimum of 10 feet in width, with a maximum width of 30 feet at the property line. Driveways within the R-4 zoning district must be constructed of blacktop or concrete. Driveways must be set back at least 5 feet from side and rear lot lines.

Q: Can commercial equipment be parked in residential areas?

A: No commercial equipment shall be parked or stored in a platted residential district or a public street except where loading, unloading, or rendering a service. This section does not apply to cars, pickup trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles less than three quarter ton capacity, maximum 8,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.

Commercial equipment means any vehicle, trailer, or equipment that is used or intended for use in commercial activities.

Q: My neighbors have a dismantled lawnmower, ladders, and old appliances in their backyard. Can they store these things outside?

A: All materials and equipment shall be stored within a building or be fully hidden with a solid fence or wall not less than 5 feet in height so as not to be visible from adjoining properties.

The following items which are in use, or usable, and in good condition, are exempt:

1. Laundry drying equipment.
2. Recreational equipment.
3. Barbeque grills.
4. Play structures.
5. Construction and landscaping materials and equipment currently being used on the premises.
6. Agricultural equipment and materials, if they are used or intended for use on the premises.
7. Off-street parking of passenger automobiles and pickup trucks.
8. Firewood must be stored at least five feet from property lines and in side or rear yards only. Quantities larger than one cord (4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 8 feet long) shall be screened from view of adjacent properties.

Q: Do I need a permit to put up a fence?

A: See Home Owner Information - Fence Ordinance Summary

Please note that each development may have its own private covenants that may be more restrictive than the city's ordinances. The Homeowner Association is responsible for enforcing the development's private covenants.