The TRP clerk reports that there are 107 certified rentals and 16 additional ones pending septic inspections. Letters were sent out to 69 property owners with 45 responding they are not renting.
Failing septic systems have kept Franklin Sanitation busy as repairs and replacements are underway. The unresponsive owners will be subject to the compliance component of the program and subsequent enforcement action.
Another issue has been identified by the Zoning Inspector; the creation of a second housing unit on a property zoned single family, which is a violation of our Zoning Code. This most often occurs when an accessory structure (like a garage) is converted to living space. To be considered part of the primary dwelling it must be attached to the main building in a substantial way (spelled out in the code).
He also recommends that the TRP program be capped at or near the present number of rentals to preserve the integrity of the Island.
Building Permits Are Now Required
As of July 25th, all construction must meet the standards set forth in the Ohio Basic Building Code. The City of Sandusky will manage the entire process including permit applications for the various projects, collection of building permit fees, inspections, and final occupancy. This means that any new construction that has not already been completed is required to apply for the appropriate permit through the City of Sandusky (on their website). For projects that have started but are not completed, you are required to make application for the portions of the projects that are not completed. For example, if you built a building and the structure is up, but the heating and air conditioning, electric, and interior walls are not covered, you are responsible for obtaining those permits immediately. Plumbing permits will continue to be obtained from the Erie County Health Dept. Final occupancy permits will not be issued until such time that all of the inspections for the various trades have been completed. Failure to comply will result in fines and fourth degree misdemeanor charges.
