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UNDERSTANDING IMPORTANT CITY CODES & ORDINANCES

While there are many codes and ordinances within the city of Fort Collins, there are a few that get discussed a little more frequently among students. Here is your chance to get a glimpse of how some of these ordinances may have an impact on you.

UNREASONABLE NOISE:

A violation of this ordinance can come with a $1,000+ price tag (per resident!) and a criminal misdemeanor. In the City of Fort Collins, unreasonable noise is determined, typically, when noise is heard beyond property lines. When a noise complaint is called into Fort Collins Police Services, an officer is sent to determine if the level of noise is unreasonable by considering the time of day, type of noise, and other factors. While you may think you are doing a good job at keeping the noise down, it is always wise to go outside and walk around your property line to determine if noise can be heard from your residence.

NUISANCE GATHERING ORDINANCE:

This ordinance holds party hosts accountable for any damage to neighboring properties as a result of their gathering. A conviction carries a $1,000+ fine, in ADDITION to the cost of any repairs needed, with the possibility of jail time or community service hours. Examples of these damages include trash and litter, public urination, and vandalism. Remember, as a party host you are responsible for what happens at, and as a result of, your party, including the actions of others.

For information on how to avoid receiving these citations, check out the Party Smart article.

Those are some heavy hitters, but how about other codes and ordinances that could have a smaller impact on you? Whether you rent or own, there are several important nuisance ordinances to be aware of. If violations are not corrected in the allotted time, the City will bill the property owner for the expense, which may be passed down to tenants. The City may also issue citations for chronic problem properties or for violations that can’t be corrected by a contractor.

TRASH:

Residents are not allowed to accumulate trash and discarded items. Trash containers must be stored out of view from the street.

SNOW:

You are responsible for clearing snow and ice off the public sidewalks adjacent to your property within 24 hours of accumulation. Remember it’s easier to shovel fresh snow!

SOFAS:

Furniture manufactured for indoor use is prohibited in outdoor areas. This includes unenclosed porches.

WEEDS:

Weeds and grass on your property can only be up to 6 inches tall.

As a renter, it is important to know that a violation of any of the above mentioned may cost you additional fees assessed by your property manager. So, what happens if you have received any citations related to the issues above?

Public Nuisance Ordinance (PNO): The PNO is a tool for managing chronic problem properties. Properties are considered problematic when citations occur on a regular basis. Property owners are accountable for the use of their properties and the behaviors of tenants. If a property receives two citations (of the same kind) within six months, three citations (of any kind) in a year, or five citations (of any kind) in two years, the tenants and property owner can be held responsible under the PNO which may require eviction. It is important to note that citations follow the property, so be aware of your property’s prior citations to avoid costly fines or possible eviction. You can check on property violation history by calling Neighborhood Services at the City of Fort Collins at (970) 224-6046.

Apartments and condos are required to provide recycling bins for their residents. Residents can recycle all materials shown on the reverse side. Email recycling@ fcgov.com if your property doesn’t o er recycling bins.

You can also take your recyclables to a drop-o center free of charge. The City’s Timberline Recycling Center at 1903 S. Timberline Road (fcgov.com/TRC) and recycling drop-o center at the Larimer County Landfill accept everyday recyclables.

If you live in a house, Your trash bill is based on the size of your trash cart. If you don’t regularly fill your trash cart, call your trash hauler to request a smaller cart and you’ll save money. The smaller your trash cart, the smaller your trash bill. Recycling is included as part of your trash service.

Did you know you receive recycling at no extra cost? If you don’t already have a cart to hold your recyclables, call your trash hauler to get one. You can have as many as two 96-gallon recycling carts at no charge.