9.2. SR 01-19-2021City of
Elk*
River
Request for Action
To
Item Number
Mayor and City Council
9.2
Agenda Section
Meeting Date
Prepared by
Work Session
January 19, 2021
Mark Dickinson, Fire Chief
Item Description
Reviewed by
Rental Dwelling Program
Suzanne Fischer, Community Dev. Director
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Action Requested
Informational.
Background/Discussion
The proposed revisions to the Rental Dwelling Program are intended to streamline the process and
lessen the amount of staff time conducting inspections.
Staff reviewed program logistics with our comparative cities and found we were one of two cities
charging higher initial license fees. To better align the City of Elk River with our comparative cities, the
proposed revisions include:
■ adjusting fees for new and renewed rental licenses
■ reducing inspections for landlords/property management companies in good standing
■ streamlining the application process via CitizenServe
■ changing payments to online or cashier's check only
The attached draft ordinance and resolution reflect these changes and have been reviewed by the city
attorney. If directed to proceed, the finalized documents will be placed on the February 1, 2021, consent
agenda.
Financial Impact
Budget neutral.
Mission, Policy, Goal
Improve customer service.
Attachments
■ Ordinance Amendment
■ Resolution for Summary Publication
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional,` 01 e
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires pi ospei ly INAMIRE1
9.2 at 12-
River
Proposed Ordinance 21-
An Ordinance Amending portions of Chapter 30, Article III, Residential Rental
Property Standards, -Land Development Regulations of the City of Elk River,
Minnesota, City Code
The City Council of the City of Elk River does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. That Chapter 30, Article III, governing Residential Rental Property Standards §-30-
3 of the City of Elk River
Code of Ordinances shall be amended to read as follows:
ARTICLE III. - RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTY STANDARDS
Sec. 30-151. - Purpose and intent.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of these procedures is to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all
occupants of rental properties, and those residing near such units are able to pursue the quiet
enjoyment of the normal activities of life in surroundings that are:
(1) Safe, secure, and sanitary.
(2) Properly maintained and cared for.
(32) Free from crimes and criminal activity, noise, nuisances, or annoyances; and
(43) Free from reasonable fears regarding the safety of persons and security of property.
Further, it is the intent of this article to regulate the operations of residential rental properties and
provide for the safety of all rental occupants and owners. This will be accomplished through licensing and
inspections of rental dwellings to ensure that such housing does not become a hazard or nuisance to the
neighborhood and does not create an impediment to the prosperity of the community.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-152. - Scope of article.
(a) Generally. The provisions of this article shall apply to all buildings or portions thereof used, or
designed, or intended to be used, for residential rental purposes.
(G) Rooming houses and todging houses. shall GE)FRPIY with all the FequiFements of this aFtiGle fbF Fental
dwellings.
(bd) Additions, alterations, or repairs. For additions, alterations, or repairs, see the building code.
9.2 at 1"
(ce) Relocation of buildings. Buildings or structures moved into or within the city shall comply with the
requirements in this code and the building code for new buildings and structures.
(d#) Continuation of existing use. Rental dwellings in existence at the time of adoption of the ordinance
from which this article is derived may have their existing use or occupancy continued if such use or
occupancy was legal at the time of adoption of the ordinance from which this article is derived,
provided such continued use complies with and is subject to the terms of this article.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-153. - Definitions.
The following definitions, and those contained in section 30-1, will be used in interpreting, and
enforcing this article.
Agent. A person designated by the owner of a rental dwelling to act on behalf of the owner.
City. The City of Elk River, Minnesota.
Disorderly conduct. Disorderly conduct shall be as defined by Minn. Stats. § 609.72 (Disorderly
Conduct) as amended.
Major life/safety issues. Hazardous conditions that, in the judgment of the fire chief or their designee,
pose an imminent risk to the life and safety of tenants and other occupants.
Nuisance call. Any instance where law enforcement officers are called to a property in response to a
valid complaint related to a violation of state or local laws or ordinances.
Tenant. Any person, excluding the owner or operator, living in a rental dwelling.
Valid complaint. A violation that is visible at the time of inspection or proven by credible, substantial
evidence to the satisfaction of the city.
Wherever the terms "dwelling," "dwelling unit," "premises," and "structure," are used in this article,
they shall be construed as though they were followed by the words "or any part thereof'.
Wherever the designation "Fire Chief' is used in this article, it shall be construed as though it were
followed by the words "or their designee".
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
DIVISION 1A. - INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE.0
Sec. 30-154. - Property maintenance code.
The current adopted version of the International Property Maintenance Code, three copies of which
are on file in the office of the city clerk of the City of Elk River, being marked and designated as the
International Property Maintenance Code as published by the International Code Council, Inc., is adopted
as the property maintenance code of the city for the purposes of this article relative to the control of
buildings and structures as herein provided; and each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties,
conditions and terms of said property maintenance code are hereby referred to, adopted, and made a
part hereof, as if fully set out in this article, with the additions, insertions, deletions and changes, if any,
prescribed in section 30-155 of this division.
9.2 at 12-
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-155. - Revisions to the International Property Maintenance Code.
The following sections of the International Property Maintenance Code are hereby revised:
Section 101.1. Insert: City of Elk River
Section 103.5. Insert: The current year fee schedule adopted by the City Council.
Section 302.4: Insert: 6 inches.
Section 304.14_ Insect screens to read `year-round'.
Section 602.3_. Insert October 15 —April 15.
Section 602.4-_ Insert: October 15 —April 15.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-156. - Conflict between codes.
Where there is any conflict between the provisions of the International Property Maintenance Code
and any other applicable code or ordinance enforced by or in the City of Elk River, the more restrictive
provisions shall apply.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Secs. 30-157-30-170. - Reserved.
DIVISION 2. -ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENTu
Sec. 30-171. - Authority of fire chief; right of entry.
(a) The fire chief is hereby authorized and directed to provide for the enforcement of all provisions of
this article. The fire chief shall have the power to render interpretations of this article and to adopt
procedures as he/she may deem necessary to apply the provisions of this article. Such
interpretations and procedures shall be in conformity with the intent and purpose of this article.
(b) Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of this article, or
whenever the fire chief has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any
premises subject to this article a condition that constitutes a violation of this Code, including this
article, the fire chief, upon notice to the owner or operator, may enter such building or premises at all
reasonable times to inspect the building or premises or to perform any duty imposed upon the fire
chief by this article; provided that if such building or premises is occupied, he/she shall first present
proper credentials and request entry, and if the building or premises be unoccupied, he/she shall first
make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building
or premises and request entry. The owner of the premises shall notify tenants of the time and
purpose of the inspection. The tenant shall make the premises accessible to the fire chief. If such
entry is refused, the fire chief shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
The notice requirements of this section shall not apply if the fire chief has reasonable cause to
believe that a violation of the requirements of this article is creating a major life/safety issue which
must be addressed without delay.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
9.2 at 121
Sec. 30-172. - Appeals.
When a person to whom a compliance order is directed by the fire chief alleges that such compliance
order is based upon an erroneous interpretation of this article or upon a misstatement or mistake of fact,
such person may appeal the order as set forth in article VI, division 2, subdivision II of this chapter.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-173. - Inspections.
(a) Generally. All buildings or structures within the scope of this article, and all construction or work for
which a permit is required, shall be subject to inspection by the Fire Chief in accordance with and in
the manner provided by this article and the building code.
(b) Frequency. Upon receipt of a properly executed new application for a rental license and receipt of
the appropriate fee, the fire chief shall conduct an initial inspection of the premises to assure
compliance with the city code.
Any rental dwelling will be re -inspected after a renewal application is filed to determine compliance,
unless the fire chief may determine that a renewal inspection of a premises may be deferred based
on results of previous inspections.
(c) Response to complaints. The fire chief shall respond to valid complaints of violations of this article.
A valid complaint may be cause for a complete inspection of a unit or building. If an inspection is to
be made, the fire chief shall notify the owner/tenant of the inspection. If there are violations, the fire
chief shall notify the owner/tenant to correct the problem which prompted the valid complaint. An
owner may request an advisory inspection of a unit.
(d) Access for inspections.
(1) The fire chief shall be authorized to make or cause to be made inspections to determine the
condition of rental dwellings and premises to safeguard the health, safety, morals, and welfare
of the public.
(2) The fire chief shall be authorized to enter any rental dwelling or premises at any reasonable
time for the purpose of performing his/her duties under this article.
(3) The owner, operator, or tenant of every rental dwelling and premises, or the person in charge
thereof, shall give the fire chief free access to such rental dwelling and premises on which it is
located at all reasonable times for the purpose of such inspection, examination, and survey.
(e) Refusal of access for inspection. If the owner, operator, person in charge, or tenant shall refuse
to consent to the inspection, an administrative search warrant may be obtained, unless an
emergency exists.
(g) Subject to tenant's right to privacy. Entry under this section is subject to Minn. Stat. § 504B.211
(Residential Tenant's Right to Privacy) as amended.
4
9.2 at 12-
(h) Costs of obtaining warrant. If the city finds it necessary to obtain an administrative search
warrant to enter the property for inspection due to the owner, operator, person in charge, or
tenant's lack of cooperation, said person or persons may also be charged with all costs of
obtaining the warrant, including court costs and attorney's fees.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-174. - Inspection fee.
(1)_Inspection fees under this article shall be as established by resolution. The inspection fee shall
apply to all inspections other than the initial license inspection, . and one
additional inspection if needed to follow up for corrections found upon initial inspection.
(2) Reinspection fees. Any re -inspections to verify compliance with a previously noted violation will
be conducted at no charge if all violations have been remedied. If violations remain; inspections
are necessitated by a valid complaint; or subsequent re -inspections are necessitated because
of a previous unsatisfactory inspection, a fee, as set by the city council, may be charged.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Secs. 30-175-30-190. - Reserved.
DIVISION 3. - RENTAL DWELLING LICENSE AND REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 30-191. — License Required.
(a) License. No person, firm, or corporation shall operate a rental dwelling unit without first having
obtained a rental dwelling license to do so from the city as provided for in this article. Each rental dwelling
license shall be issued on a three-year basis if the landlord or property manager is in good standing with
the city. Landlords or property managers having compliance issues (health and safety concerns, tenant
complaints, inferior maintenance, etc.), shall have rental dwelling licenses issued on an annual basis that
expire one year after its issuance. Rental dwelling license renewal applications for the following year shall
be filed on or before 30 days prior to the expiration of the then current license. Sixty days prior to the
expiration of a rental dwelling license, the city shall notify the operator of the upcoming renewal deadline
within which to file the rental dwelling license renewal application.
(b) Exceptions from rental licensing.
(1) Rental property which is licensed as a nursing home or boarding care home by the State of
Minnesota Department of Health shall be exempt from the license required under this article.
(2) State licensed residential facilities.
(3) A residential property owned by a "snowbird" where the property is rented to another person for
a period of less than 120 consecutive days while the owner is residing out of the State of Minnesota. The
owner must occupy the property during the remainder of the year.
(4) A single-family residential property that has been sold on a contract for deed or has been sold
as "rent to own". A copy of recorded documentation with the Sherburne County Recorder's office shall be
provided to the city.
(5) A single-family residential property that is occupied by the owner and two or fewer tenants
where the owner and the tenants share all living space within the dwelling.
9.2 at 1"
(6) Single-family residential property that is owned by a member of the armed services who is on
active duty and the property is rented to another person during the time of active duty. The owner must
provide the city with a copy of the owner's military orders upon request and must occupy the property
when not on active duty as the owner's primary residence.
(7) Residential homestead. Qualifying relatives include parent, stepparent, child, stepchild,
grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew, or niece of the owner, by blood or marriage.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-192. - Application for license.
No Fental dwelling liGense shall be issued undeF this ar-tiG18 unless the Fental dwelling and its
C)nfeFm to the c)Fd0nanG8S of th8 Gity and laws of the state. An insp8Gtien of the Fental dwelling
droll ho --nd in4ed pFi�issuanno of an initial Fental dwelling-;iGense The owner or the owner's agent
shall apply for a rental dwelling license on forms provided by the city.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016; Ord. No. 19-22, § 1, 12-2-2019)
Sec. 30-193. - Agent required.
Any owner who does not live in the state shall appoint, on the rental dwelling license application, an
agent residing within 50 miles of the rental dwelling upon whom the city may serve notices pertaining to
the licensed rental dwelling.
Sec. 30-194. — Initial license issuance.
No rental dwelling license shall be issued under this article unless the rental dwelling and its
premises conform to the ordinances of the city and laws of the state. An inspection of the rental dwelling
shall be conducted prior to issuance of an initial rental dwelling license.
Sec. 30-195. - Fee.
To obtain a rental dwelling license required by the provisions of this division, a person shall pay to
the city the fee established by resolution.
Sec. 30-196. - Renewal of license.
(a) All renewed rental dwelling licenses shall be valid for a period of one year to three years
{a} depending if the landlord/property manager does not have any outstanding compliance issues
and/or tenant complaints.-
(b) All rental dwelling license renewal applications and required fees shall be submitted to the city
on an annual basis and prior to the issuance of a renewed rental dwelling license.
(c) Information on the rental dwelling license renewal form must be updated to reflect current
conditions.
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Sec. 30-197. - Transfer of license.
A rental dwelling license is nontransferable and shall automatically terminate within 30 days of
closing on the sale of the licensed building unless, within 30 days of said closing, the new owner applies
for and is granted a rental dwelling license for said building in accordance with this article.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
9.2 at 12-
See 30 198 inspeet4ens f +�' Hyve";nRs Gene a4y Addressed in 30-173.
occ. oo xoo. iiio�pccuoiio of ren�ai avaciiiii�o ociici aiip.
9.2 at 12-
(Ord. No. 16-12,§ 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-199. - License suspension, revocation, denial, and non -renewal.
(a) Process for consideration of license suspension, revocation, denial, or non -renewal.
(1) No action will be taken by the city council to revoke, suspend, deny, or not renew a rental
dwelling license without a public hearing and written notice of that hearing is sent to the owner
and affected tenants a minimum of ten days prior to the hearing.
(2) The city council shall give due regard to the frequency and seriousness of the violations, the
ease with which such violations could have been cured or avoided and good faith efforts to
comply.
(3) The city council shall issue a decision to revoke, suspend, deny, or not renew a rental dwelling
license only upon written findings.
(4) Upon a decision to revoke, suspend, deny, or not renew a license, no new application for the
same facility will be accepted for a period specified in the city council's written decision, not
exceeding one year. Such new applications shall be accompanied by a reinstatement fee as
required by this article.
(5) The city council may suspend, revoke, deny or not renew a license for part or all of a facility.
(6) A written decision to revoke, suspend, deny, or not renew a rental dwelling license or
application for part of a facility shall specify the part or parts of the facility to which it applies.
Thereafter, and until a rental dwelling license is reissued or reinstated, no rental dwellings
becoming vacant in such part or parts of the facility may be re -let or occupied.
a. Revocation, suspension, denial, or non -renewal of a rental dwelling license shall not
excuse the owner from compliance with all terms of this article for as long as any units in
the facility are occupied.
b. Failure to comply with all terms of this article during the term of revocation, suspension,
denial, or non -renewal is a misdemeanor and grounds for extension of the term of such
revocation or suspension or continuation of non -renewal, or for a decision not to reinstate
the license, notwithstanding any limitations on the period of suspension, revocation, denial
or non -renewal specified in the city council's written decision.
(b) Suspension.
(1) The city council may suspend a rental dwelling license under the following circumstances:
a. Failure to correct deficiencies noted in notices of violation within the time specified in the
notice.
b. Failure to pay any rental dwelling license, inspection or reinstatement fee required by this
article.
c. Any other violation of the building code or the property maintenance, zoning, environmental
or utility chapters of the city code.
d. Any specific provisions of the city ordinances that include suspension as a remedy (i.e.,
nuisance calls, etc.).
9.2 at 12'
(2) Additional standards related to suspension of a rental dwelling license:
a. A reinstatement fee as established by the city council shall be paid prior to reinstatement of
a rental dwelling license that has been suspended.
b. In addition to the reinstatement fee, the city may issue a citation for the applicable
violations.
c. While under suspension, the owner cannot lease the affected unit and/or facility to any
tenant.
d. The suspension shall be for a period of up to six months unless otherwise regulated by this
article.
(c) Revocation.
(1) The city council may revoke a rental dwelling license under the following circumstances:
a. When an owner has not complied with reinstatement criteria.
b. When it is found that an owner has given false statements on any application or other
information or report required by this article to be given by the applicant or owner.
c. When it has been determined through an inspection that major life/safety issues exist on
the property.
d. When the owner or agent has been convicted of a crime related to the type of business
licensed and failure to show, by competent evidence, rehabilitation, and present fitness to
perform the duties of the business.
e. Operating or allowing the rental property to be used in such a manner as to constitute a
breach of the peace, a menace to health, safety, and welfare of the public or a disturbance
of the peace or comfort of the residents of the city, upon recommendation by the police
chief.
f. Failure to schedule and/or allow rental or building inspections of the licensed premises, for
the purpose of ensuring compliance with rental dwelling license requirements, city code
requirements, state building codes, or other applicable state or federal law.
g. Real estate or personal property taxes on the business have become delinquent and the
owner and the applicant are the same person or entity or have any common ownership
where they are a different person or entity.
h. Failure to actively pursue the eviction of tenants who have violated the provisions of the
crime free lease addendum.
Any specific provisions of the city ordinances that include revocation as a remedy (i.e.
nuisance calls, etc.).
j. Other good cause as determined by the city council.
(2) Additional standards related to revocation of a rental dwelling license:
a. A reinstatement fee as established by the city council shall be paid prior to reinstatement of
a rental dwelling license that has been revoked.
b. In addition to the reinstatement fee, the city may issue a citation for the applicable
violations.
c. While under revocation, the owner cannot extend the lease of an existing tenant and
cannot lease the affected unit to a new tenant.
d. The revocation shall be for a period of up to one year.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
E
9.2 at 1-;�
Sec. 30-200. - Display of license, fees.
Rental dwelling licenses issued under this article must be conspicuously posted in a frame with a
transparent cover in a public corridor or front entrance of rental dwellings with four or more units. All
owners must produce a copy of the rental dwelling license upon demand of a prospective tenant or city
official.
(1) License fees.
a. Fees established and due date. Rental dwelling license fees and reinstatement fees shall
be set by the city council and shall be due with submission of a new or renewal application.
b. Filing due date and penalty. If a renewal application is made less than 30 days before the
beginning date of the renewal license period applied for, then the fee shall be accompanied
by an additional amount equal to 100 percent of such license fee. The additional amount
shall be a penalty for a late application. In no case shall there be a lapse in the rental
dwelling license period.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-201. - Conversion of a single-family residential property from owner -occupied to rental.
Conversion fee. A one-time fee, in addition to the annual rental dwelling license fee, will be charged
for a single-family dwelling or single-family attached dwelling (townhouse) that is converted from owner -
occupied to rental property.
Sec. 30-202. - Reserved.
Sec. 30-203. - Trash removal for rental properties.
(a) Rental properties must have regularly scheduled recycling and trash pick-up.
(b) If the trash and/or recycling has not been removed within seven days of the normally scheduled
pick-up, the trash may be removed by the city under emergency abatement procedures.
(c) If the lack of trash and/or recycling removal becomes a recurring problem, refuse service will be
authorized by the city and will be assessed on the property's utility bill.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
10
9.2 at 1"
Sec. 30-204. - No retaliation.
No owner shall evict, threaten to evict, or take any other punitive action against any tenant who, by
reason of good faith, calls city officials related to public safety or property maintenance concerns. This
section shall not prohibit the eviction of tenants from a rental dwelling for unlawful conduct of a tenant
or invitee for violations of any rules, regulations, or lease terms other than a prohibition against
contacting city officials.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-205. - Summary action.
When the conduct of any owner or their agent, representative, employee or tenant or the condition of
their rental dwelling is detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare as to constitute a
nuisance, fire hazard, or other unsafe or dangerous condition and thus give rise to an emergency, the
city shall have the authority to summarily condemn or post for no occupancy such area of the rental
dwelling.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-206. - Severability clause.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this article is for any reason held to be invalid,
such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this article.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Sec. 30-207. - Violations and penalties.
Any person violating any provision of this article is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction
shall be subject to the penalties as set forth in Minnesota Statutes.
(Ord. No. 16-12, § 1, 6-6-2016)
Secs. 30-208-30-290. - Reserved.
SECTION 2. That this ordinance, amending portions of Chapter 30, Article III, Residential Rental
Property Standards, shall take effect upon adoption and the notice of Summary Publication in the
City's official newspaper.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF Elk River, Minnesota this 15` day of
February, 2021.
ATTEST:
Tina Allard, City Clerk
11
John J. Dietz, Mayor
9.2 at 12-
12
9.2 at2
�j
City of
Elk
River
Councilmember introduced the following resolution and moved its
adoption:
Resolution 2 1 -
A Resolution of the City of Elk River Approving Notice of Summary
Publication of Ordinance 21- amending Chapter #30 -Article III,
Residential Rental Property Standards, of the City of Elk River, Minnesota,
City Code
WHEREAS, on February 4, 2021, the Elk River City Council adopted Ordinance 21-??
amending Sections 30 151 through 3 202Chapter 30, Article III, governing Residential
Rental Property Standards of the Elk River Code of Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, a copy of the full text of the ordinance is available for inspection by any
person at the office of the Elk River City Clerk, 13065 Orono Parkway, during regular
business hours; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council, by at least four -fifths
vote, authorizes the publication of the title and summary of Ordinance 21-
The motion for adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Councilmember
, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof -
and the following against:
resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
The following members were present:
and the following absent:
Passed and adopted this 4`' day of February 2021.
ATTEST:
Tina Allard, City Clerk
whereupon said
John J. Dietz, Mayo
POWERED 91
4A fUR
mital Dwelling
Program
City Council Work Session
L191021
ital Dwelling Program
entals w/4 or more units (no SFH)
■ 374 single family homes
■ 63 apartment units
■ 6 Multi-plex units
(4.4% of — 8500 homes)
■ Fees generated in 2020 �$55,000
Single family homes were added during the down market of 2008.
gram Goals
housing stock & property values
ine program for efficiency/effectiveness
issue of absentee landlords
Respond to rental complaints
■ More user friendly (increase compliance /reduce policing)
■ Address neglected properties
0 Potential for HRA loan program for landlords
0
0
0
0
Program Purpose
Protect life, health, property, safety & welfare of the
general public, owners & occupants of
buildings.
residential
Protect residents and property from fire.
Provide minimum standards for housing.
Preserve property values.
Improve quality of housing.
Reduce crime.
�A
►ntal Dwelling Program
s each rental dwelling unit to be licensed.
■ Rental licenses are renewed annually upon passing inspection.
■ The license must be conspicuously posted near the main
entry.
0
Proposed Ordinance Changes
Licenses are renewed annually & inspected every 1 to 3 years
depending on landlord's standing with the city (compliance).
Rental Dwelling Ord. supersedes the Land Development
Ord. which exempts the need for a rental license if the
owner lives in the home and also rents part of it to a
`qualifying relative'.
> Residential hoesteczd.uczling relatives In parent, steppczrent, child,
stepchild, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew o� niece
of the owner, by blood or Damage.
Initial
City
License Term
fee
SFD Ren. Fee
MFD Renewal Fee
Re -inspection Fee
or Other Fees
$75 (no sprinkler), $52
Andover
2 year
NA
$50
(with Spklr) - no permit
$50
if owner occupied
$80 + $2 for ea add'I
Anoka
3 year
$100
$80
units; rental cap (10%
$100 + $25 per failed unit
per block)
1 year: SFD:
$110 SFD,
$100 after initial follow-up
Champlin
Apr -Mar
NA
$160 Duplex
$100 + $15 per Unit
$100 for missed appt's
MFD: Feb -
$180 Triplex
$50 for every 30 days late
Jan
$200 4-Plex
SFD, $135
5-11 Units: $198 for 1st
50% of lic. Fee if pd > 3/1;
1 year (insp
Du
Duplex &
5 + $42 ea add'I unit;
100% add'I fee after Apr 1;
Chaska
every 2 years)
NA
Triplex; $167;
12+ units $603 for 1st
$60 late fee/misdemeanor
Due in Jan
$198 4 plex
12 then $16/ea add'I
& $500 penalty fee; $500
unit.
for every 30 days late
Elk River
1 year
$365
$65/year
$65 + $16 /add'I unit
$100
Initial
City
License
fee
SFD Renewal Fee
MFD Renewal Fee
Re -inspection Fee
Term
or Other Fees
Farmington
NA
NA
NA
NA
Forest Lake
NA
NA
NA
NA
$50 SFD, $75 Duplex;
$100 during day; o/s
Hastings
2 year
NA
$50 if owner occup.
Over 4 units: $75 per
work hours $200 min +
$95 Triplex; $115 4-
bldg + $10 per unit
$50 for each add'I hr
plex's
$67 for 1 & 2 units;
Lower if participates in
Lino Lakes
1 year
NA
$67 + $16/unit for 3
STAR (Safer Tenant &
$67
or > units
Rental Certification
Rentals for vacation
Prior Lake
Short term
rentals acation
$205
purpose; min of 60
only
Y
days & max of 180
days/yr.
Ramsey
3 year
NA
$25 SFD &
$400 per building
$80
Townhomes per unit
Rosemount
2 year
NA
$35 per rental unit
$50
Savage
$0
Rental
reg. only
■
ousing Code Standards
Exterior standards
Standards for basic services
Structural standards
Interior standards
Standards for rodent control
Fire protection
Occupancy standards
Weatherization requirements
Inspection Process
Initial Insp. - list deficiencies/compliance timeframe.
(The owner/agent �zccoynp�znies the Inspector at least once
dining the license peniod).
Follow-up inspection for compliance
1. No license issued
2. License issued if compliant
3. Citation issue if non -compliant
Follow-up inspection — no fee; Re -inspection fee $ 100
ttjRlwit Rental Inspection Checklist
fist@ Reviewing rental units for compliance with this list could save from
costly re -inspections- Rental units include apartments, condos,
X manufactured home parks and single-family homes for rent.
Ibis firs contafilrs ewmaron raolahonr. R if not inkeded to he a ompmbrarim rkt! of
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Single and Multi -Units I Interior
Ceiling (IPMC 305)
❑ Free of water damage, cracks, and peeling
Electrical (IPMC 604-605)
❑ All outlets end switch plate covers are present
and secured
❑ Wiring is concealed
❑ Free of temporary wiring/extension cords
❑ Electrical panel and/or electrical room labeled and
accessible? (3roor <ku v. A. pax acd mp-ri2n mirk )
Floors (IPMC 305)
❑ Floors free of holes, cracks and tripping hazards
❑ Woter-tight surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens
Food Storage/Preparation (IPMC 305)
❑ Cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware in good
condition
❑ Kitchen is sanitary
Furnace/Air Conditioner (IPMC 603)
❑ Heating appliances and air conditioners operable
with secure gaskets and handles
❑ Controls/thermostats easily accessible
Sink/Wash Basin (IPMC 504)
❑ Sinks and wash basins are cleanable; have
water -tight surfaces that are free of chips, cracks
and leaks
❑ No presence of flexible piping
SmokeiCarban Monoxide Det. (IPMC 704 & 705)
Q Working smoke detectors installed in each
bedroom, adjacent hallways and on each level
CI Working carbon monoxide (CO) detector are within
10 feet of bedrooms where required
Stove/Range/Oven (IPMC 603)
❑ Burners and oven elements are operable
❑ Door gaskets are in good condition
❑ Adjacent countertops are below stovetop cooking
surfaces
Environment (IPMC 309)
❑ Free of signs of rodent or pest infestation
Tubs/Showers/Tailets (IPMC 504)
❑ Surfaces around tub, shower, floor and toilet are
washable and water -tight
❑ Plumbing fixtures are operating properly
Ventilation {IPMC 4031
❑ Bathroom I Operable bath fans if there is no
bathroom window
❑ Kitchen I Mechanical fans or windows open freely
❑ Dryer I Vented through rigid metal or other
approved flexible materials, secured at joints with
metal tape
❑ Dryer I Directly vented to the outside
Walls pPMC 305)
❑ Walls free of holes or water damage
Windows/Patio Doors(IPMC 304.13 — 304-15)
❑ Windows open, close and latch freely
❑ Doors open, close and latch freely
❑ Windows and doors free from leaks, cracks and
peeling paint
❑ Screens on all windows and doors
Exits and Pathways (IPMC 702)
❑ Exits and pathways ore dear, moiroali d mW
usable
Stairs and Guardrails (IPMC 304.12 & 307.1)
❑ Carpeting on stairs is secure
❑ Handrails are present and secure
Water Healer (IPMC 504)
❑ Water heater is free of leaks and rust
❑ A metal drip pipe is in place within 18" inches off
the ground
❑ Vented properly
Single and Multi- Units I Exterior
Combustible Storage
❑ Combustible materials (i.e. paint, gasoline, etc.)
are stored properly
Address (IPMC 30A.31
❑ Building address is visible from street
❑_ Individual numbers in the address are at least four
Inches tall
Building Ext./Yard Maim. (IPMC 3041
❑ Roof and siding in good condition
❑ Sidewalks and steps maintained
❑ Yord/londscaping maintained (mowed or plowed)
and free of junk and debris
❑ Pointed surfaces are free of chipping/peeling
Decks (IPMC 304.10)
❑ Guardrails present on any decking over 30 inches
from ground
❑ Decks free of grills, where opplicable
❑ Decks structurally sound (no holes, no rotting)
Vehlcles/Oufdoor Storage (IPMC 308)
❑ Yard and exterior free of prohibited items
❑ At vehicles parked on the property are operable,
licensed and properly parked
Multi -Family I Interior Common Areas
Emergency Contacts and Fire Department Key Box
❑ Up-to-catc emergency contact numbers
❑ Fire Deportment box contains all necessary keys
Fire Extinguisher (IPMC 704)
❑ Fire extinguishers ore visible, accessible with valid
inspection dates
❑ Extinguisher cases ore free of broken or chipped
glass
Fire Safety Features (IPMC 704)
❑ Emergency lights, exit signs and fire doors are
maintained and operable
Stairs and Guardrails (IPMC 304.12 & 304.7)
❑ Corpeting on stairs is secure
E Handrails are present and secure
Pool Chemicals
❑ Pool chemicals stored properly
Multi -Family I Exterior Common Areas
Dumpsters ;IPMC 308)
❑ Dumpsters are located away from building and
wall openings
Fire Lanes
❑ Fire lanes are posted and well maintained
Hydrants and Sprinklers
❑ Hydrants and sprinkler systems are well
maintained
Utility Meter
❑ Utility meters are protected from potential vehicle
damage
Garbage/Racyciing (IPMC 308)
❑ A gorboge and recycling service is in place
❑ Containers are stored in approved enclosures
Laundry Rooms (IPMC 403 & 504)
❑ Laundry rooms maintained and properly ventNeted
❑ All surfaces are woter-tight
Pool Chemicals
❑ Pool chemicals stored properly
Common Inspection Issues
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Additional Program Changes
Change payments to online or cashier's checks only
Revise inspection checklist and fee schedule
■ Revise the Rental Dwelling web page
■ Create social blurb outlining program improvements
■ Send letters to landlords/property mgmt companies
that tried to apply for a new, or a renewal license, of
program changes
posed Fee Changes
65 new w/$ 6 5 annual renewal
00 new w/$65 + $16/unit annual renewal
Proposed
SFH $ 100 new w/ $ 100 annual renewal
MFH $ 100 new w/ $ 100 + $ 10 /unit annual renewal
Comparative cities: Average initial rental license fee is $233;
average renewal fee is $ 124
Summary
With Council input and direction, staff wishes to revamp
the Rental Dwelling Program to increase efficiencies.
Adjust fees to simplify accounting and align more with our
comparative cities.
Provide better assistance to landlords and tenants.
MN Stat. § 504B.181, 2(b), requires landlords to notify
residential tenants that the handbook `Landlords & Tenants
Rights & Responsibilities' from the MN AG's office is
available to them.