(A) For the purpose of this section the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
(1) “IMPROVEMENT.” Increases in size of existing structures, such as enlargement of a porch which already exists, or a change in the character of the structure, such as the conversion of a garage into a family room or living quarters, and the like. Repair of existing structures, such as re-shingling of a roof, installation of new siding, and the like, shall not be subject to licensing as provided herein.
(2) “NEW CONSTRUCTION.” Any new structure built within the city limits, or any addition to any existing structure within the city limits.
(B) The following rates are hereby fixed, established, and promulgated by the city for the issuance of a building permit for new construction, and improvement of existing structures, conducted and carried on within the corporate limits of the city. Before any person, firm, company, or corporation shall conduct or engage in construction of any new building or structure, or make improvements to existing buildings or structures, in the city, such person, firm, company, or corporation shall first procure a permit to so do and pay the fee thereof as follows:
(1) Single-family residential construction or improvement. For any building used for residential purposes as a single-family dwelling, a rate of $1 per $1,000 of construction or improvement cost with a maximum permit fee of $100.
(2) All other construction or improvement. All other buildings and structures not used as single-family dwellings are to pay a rate of $1.25 per $1,000 of construction or improvement cost with a maximum permit fee of $250.
(C) All permit fees levied and collected hereunder are to be paid into the General Revenue Fund of the city and may be used for the general purposes and needs of the city.
(D) It is the duty of the City Clerk-Treasurer to verify construction cost of the job, and any difference in the actual construction or improvement cost and that reported at the time of obtaining the building permit, as verified from the tax records on the basis of change in assessment due to such structure, may be added to the permit applicant’s property tax bill issued by the city at the rate as established above.
(E) It shall be the duty of the Building Inspector to enforce the provisions of this section and failure or neglect on the part of the Inspector to enforce the provisions of this section shall be grounds for his dismissal by the Mayor. The Building Inspector shall ensure that no buildings are erected or constructed within five feet of the property lines, and shall further ensure that not more than one mobile home is placed on a single lot, and that proper road frontages are available.
(F) No permit issued under this section is subject to refund, even if the structure contemplated is never actually constructed or improved.
(G) There is specifically exempted from the application of this section any building placed on real estate within the city which building is of a non-permanent nature, which has a floor area not exceeding 100 square feet, such as small metal storage buildings.
(Ord. 4-84-1, passed 4-2-84) Penalty, see § 150.99