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Zephyrhills council approves ordinance requiring upkeep of property

 
Published Oct. 14, 2015

ZEPHYRHILLS — The city has taken the first step toward enacting a property maintenance ordinance in an effort to combat growing code enforcement problems.

During a meeting Monday, City Council members unanimously passed on first reading an ordinance that will mandate strict rules for property maintenance. The measure comes after council members, in a workshop last month, heard City Manager Steve Spina say that blight caused by dilapidated properties in the city is getting out of control. A second reading is scheduled for Oct. 26.

The new rules outlined in the ordinance are sweeping, mandating the upkeep of both residential and commercial properties.

Residential structures must be repainted or whitewashed when the surface begins to "blister, peel, chalk or otherwise deteriorate in a noticeable manner." Structures must also be pressure washed if there is a buildup of "mildew, moss, mold, dirt, soot, or other removable accumulations."

Roofs must also be free of "holes, cracks, leaks, or excessively worn surfaces." And shingle roofs showing signs of "excessive curling, mildew, moss, rot, or other deteriorating conditions shall be repaired."

The ordinance also states that weeds, grass or vegetation on property cannot exceed 12 inches and that buildup of debris or garbage is forbidden. Also, unlicensed, unregistered or inoperable vehicles would no longer be allowed on residential properties.

Rules for commercial exteriors are similar, and the ordinance also deals with minimum standards for the inside of commercial structures such as adequate lighting, sanitary restrooms, sufficient garbage storage containers, as well as plumbing and electrical upkeep.

The ordinance "will allow us to go after things we couldn't go after before — things that need to be addressed," Spina said.