Title
Consider approval of Ordinance No. 3872 amending the Code of Ordinances, repealing all requirements for Certificates of Occupancy for Residential Dwellings by amending various provisions of Chapter 22, Chapter 26, Chapter 46, Chapter 56, and by amending the Master Fee Schedule, Appendix "A" to the Code of Ordinances; and take appropriate action.
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BACKGROUND:
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Roman, staff provided an update regarding owner-occupied single-family Residential Certificates of Occupancy (RCO) at the June 4, 2024, City Council meeting during a study session.
For many years, the City of Farmers Branch has required residents to obtain a residential certificate of occupancy when first acquiring a property. This process was initially adopted and processed under the International Residential Code (IRC). The ordinance was amended in August of 2021 to move the process from the IRC to Section 56 of the Code of Ordinances and incorporated a fee of $60. The RCO requirement creates a cumbersome impact on new home buyers in the Farmers Branch, as they must pay for the RCO and then schedule the inspection prior to being able to turn on their utilities and, therefore, move into their homes. RCOs are unique to the Farmers Branch and not required in other neighboring jurisdictions.
DISCUSSION:
At the June 4, 2024, Study Session, staff presented the proposed amendment to the City Council for feedback. This agenda item seeks approval of Ordinance No. 3872.
The proposed changes are to Chapter 22, Chapter 26, Chapter 46, and Chapter 56 of the Code of Ordinances. This will repeal the requirement of the Certificate of Occupancy for Residential Dwellings before utility connection. The Code Enforcement Division will continue to monitor and enforce single-family rental, short-term rental, and multi-family permits/licenses. Code Enforcement and other City departments will also continue to respond to safety concerns in residences when reported.
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