Building without a permit now a fineable offense

Though there are penalties built into the City of Sundance’s zoning ordinances for residents who add on their property without first obtaining the required permits, Council Member Joe Wilson brought it to the council’s attention last week that they are not currently being enforced.

Police Chief Marty Noonan presented his thoughts to the council, explaining that he had researched the question at Wilson’s request. On reviewing the ordinance, he found a section stating that anyone who violates the zoning code could be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a $750 fine.

However, he said, there is also meant to be a zoning code officer, appointed by the mayor, and there does not appear to be anyone filling that role at present.

The question arose, said Mayor Paul Brooks, because Wilson was approached by residents complaining of construction that had taken place without a permit. He explained that this is a problem because permits lower the costs for the city and are “money in all our pockets”, encouraging anyone who sees something similar to notify the city as not paying for a permit takes money out of the city’s coffers.

Discussion was held as to who should take on the role of zoning code officer. Should it be Noonan, as the law enforcement authority in the city and the person who takes care of all city ordinances, or Public Works Director Mac Erickson, as the person with the closest relationship to construction within the city?

The council did not wish to consider the idea of funding a building inspector to fill the role, both for the sake of the city’s own finances and those of its residents.

The council ultimately agreed after hearing input from City Attorney Mark Hughes that Erickson would be the most logical person to act as zoning code officer and that he should be appointed at the January meeting, when most positions are appointed for the year. Erickson will bring issues to Hughes, who will write the complaints to be served.