-Permitted Improvements-

Housing Preservation Program
Permitted Improvements

All of the following repairs, improvements, installations, or removals must be visible from the public right-of-way.

Building Code Violations Exterior Painting Landscaping Tree Trimming & Removal Roofing Stucco/Siding Handicap Access Sidewalks Driveways Cement Entryways and Walks

Garage Doors Front Doors Windows Exterior Lighting Eaves Rain Gutters Fences/Block Walls Porches/Balconies Other Improvements

In addition to the list provided above, modifications to conditions that are unsafe and threaten the health and welfare of occupants and/or neighbors, including structural modification and repair, may be considered eligible. (If questionable, the determination will be made by the Housing Program Coordinator).

Definitions of Eligible Home Improvements

Any building code violations must be corrected along with the listed exterior home improvements. The following definitions have been prepared for the purpose of clarifying the described home improvements that are eligible under the Community Development Commission Housing Preservation Program. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list; rather they are presented in an effort to provide examples of common, eligible exterior improvements.

Exterior Painting. Includes house and garage. Must be undertaken if needed as determined by the Program Coordinator and/or Community Enhancement Staff.

Landscaping. Installation or removal of shrubs, trees, lawns, and flowers to improve the appearance of the property and to remove overgrown vegetation, debris, and trash. All varieties of vegetation that are planted must be approved by the Program Coordinator and meet City landscaping guidelines. Also includes the repair and installation of lawn sprinkler and watering systems.

Tree Trimming & Removal. Trimming and/or removal of trees that are overgrown, overcrowded, or are causing problems with the landscaping, sidewalks, or structure on or near the property due to exposed roots.

Roofing. Repair and replacement of roofing (Building permit required).

Stucco/Siding. The plastering or installation of stucco and siding to a home to improve and extend its life is eligible. Also, repairs, patching, and filling holes in the surfaces of walls is eligible.

Handicap Access. All modifications, alterations, or additions oriented to facilitate access and use of the home by the disabled are eligible. These include installation of ramps, door widening, and other adaptive measures to the exterior of the home.

Sidewalks. Repair and replacement of existing sidewalks to increase safety and overall appearance of the property are eligible (Engineering permit required on right-of-way).

Driveways. Repair and replacement of existing driveway (Engineering permit required on apron).

Entryways/Walks. Repair and replacement of existing entryways and walks, including the addition of brick work, composite pavers, and associated materials used to improve the overall appearance of the building entry. Also includes the installation of new walks where appropriate.

Garage Doors. Repair or replacement of garage doors, including the replacement of broken springs. Installation of automatic openers are only eligible for the handicapped and elderly.

Front Doors. Repair or replacement of the front doors. Any structural modifications to include widening require appropriate Building department approvals. Installation of wrought-iron security doors is not eligible.

Windows. Repair or replacement of the windows facing the public right-of-way. Any structural modifications to include widening require appropriate Building department approvals. Installation of wrought-iron security bars covering the windows are not eligible; however, repairs to existing screens are eligible.

Exterior Lighting. Installation or repair of exterior lighting. Includes landscaping lighting and security lights as well as automatic timers for the system. Any associated electrical modifications need to be approved and permitted.

Eaves. Repair and replacement of building eaves. Structural modifications require appropriate permits and approvals.

Rain Gutters. Installation of rain gutters on the house as well as the garages is eligible.

Fences/Block Walls. Repair and installation of fencing/block walls is permitted only when these face a street or public facility (Planning permit required).

Porches/Balconies. Repair and installation of porches, terraces, and balconies that face a street or public facility. Structural modifications require appropriate permits and approvals.

Other Improvements. Associated improvements not listed above which will improve the overall appearance of the property from the public right-of-way are eligible. All improvements require prior approval from the Program Coordinator.


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