Code Enforcement
The City of Kerens Police Department is responsible for code enforcement in the City.
Don Covey is the Code Enforcement Officer.
Business Registrations
Each business entity that provides services or conducts business in the City of Kerens, or in its extraterritorial jurisdiction, must file a completed Business Registration form with the City Secretary. Business Registrations must be kept updated.
The information required on the Business Registration provides important information needed in case of emergencies.
If you run a business in or around Kerens, file your Business Registration at City Hall or you could face a fine.
International Property Maintenance Code
In 1991, the City of Kerens adopted the International Property Maintenance Code for the purpose of establishing the minimum regulations governing the conditions and maintenance of all property, buildings, and structures; by providing the standards for supplied utilities and facilities and other physical things and conditions essential to ensure that structures are safe, sanitary and fit for occupation.
Click here for a copy of the International Property Code Checklist.
Junk & Debris
Old junk, trash, appliances, tires, rubbish, furniture or anything else stored outside can be dangerous and hazardous. It just doesn’t look good, either.
Clean it up, throw it out or store it properly. Otherwise, you might find yourself with a fine.
High Grass & Weeds
Any property that has grass or weeds taller than an average of 10 inches is declared a nuisance. High grass and weeds give unwanted critters a place to hide and multiply and also are a fire hazard.
Keep that yard trimmed, or you could face a fine, as well as a mowing bill from the City.
Junk Vehicles and Vehicle Parts
A vehicle that does not run is illegal if it is visible to the public and does not have current license and inspection and is either wrecked or dismantled.
Junk vehicles can be towed by the City – never to be returned – and earn you a fine.
Substandard Structures
In the city limits, houses and other buildings must meet certain standards as set by the minimum building standards. Buildings that are falling apart are dangerous.
Any building or home that is open and vacant is a violation of city code. If you own a property that is unoccupied, be sure to keep it closed and secure.
Keep buildings up to code or you could be fined.
Animals
No owner shall have within the city any dog or cat 3 months of age or older unless such dog or cat is currently registered with the City of Kerens. A current metal registration tag issued by the City of Kerens must be worn by the dog or cat at all times when not confined to the owner’s premises. No dog or cat shall be registered until it has a current rabies vaccination.
It is unlawful for an owner of any animal to allow or permit an animal to run at large. Animals running at large may be impounded.
It is unlawful for any person to have livestock or fowl of any kind within any area not zoned Agricultural within the city limits for longer than 72 hours without a permit.
Any violation of the Animal Control Ordinance can result in a fine of up to $1,000.00.
Pet Registration is $3.00 per animal.
Zoning Issues
Residentially zoned properties are for residences only – not for businesses, junkyards, outside storage, illegal fences, auto repair shops, etc. Illegal uses of zoned areas can result in a $2,000 fine.
Stagnant Water
Dirty standing water gives mosquitoes a place to breed and grow. Dump or treat pools, flowerpots, buckets, birdbaths or any place water can accumulate. Otherwise, you could face a fine up to $200 per day during which the nuisance continues.
Keep Trees & Drivers Safe
According to the National Arbor Day Foundation, automobiles are one of the top 10 causes of tree damage and destruction.
That’s because drivers often don’t see low hanging limbs until it’s too late.
So, to keep trees and drivers safe and guarantee access for emergency vehicles, the City of Kerens prunes street trees for a 14-foot traffic clearance. So, if you trim your own trees or hire someone to do it for you, make sure those that hang over the street are pruned to provide a 14-foot clearance.