Several ordinances affect every property owner or renter in the city. Fervent efforts are made and taken to gain compliance for all ordinances and codes. The safety and health of all Girard citizens is, of course, our goal by meeting these ordinances and codes.

Grass - Grass and/or weeds are not allowed to grow more than 12 inches tall. If found to be too tall, notification will be sent to the occupant of these properties or lots. If not within the time allowed, it will be mowed by a city crew member and the occupant/owner will be charged $100 per hour for the service. Only one notification must be sent per year, after that, the lot will be mowed without notification and charged to the occupant.

Nuisances -  Trash, wood, tires, metal, or any other matter will not be allowed to accumulate in any yard and will not be tolerated. The occupant will be notified and given time to clean up the nuisance. If not cleaned up, a citation will be issued ordering the appearance of the occupant to municipal court, where fines and court costs, plus clean up will be charged. If not cleaned up again, the city will send crews to clean it up and the bill for labor, trucks, and landfill fees will be collected from the owner/occupant.

Unsafe Structures - Any building, no matter its use, must be kept in good condition. I found to be unsafe or uninhabitable, notice will be sent for its removal. If not removed, the city will arrange for its removal and the cost assessed to the owner/occupant.

Building Construction - The City of Girard does require permits for all building, roofs, repair, remodeling, or construction. Permits are also required for any fences, electrical, plumbing, mechanical (heat & air), work done in the city. All work on any of the above, requires that the contractor obtain a Trade license from the City of Girard. Current codes being used by the City of Girard are the 1997 Edition of the Uniform Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fire and Housing Codes, and the 1999 Edition of the National Electrical Code. All work must comply with these codes no matter how small. Homeowners can also do some of their own work, but must sign paperwork to that effect and that codes will be met in all circumstances. Regular inspections of all work will be performed by the city code enforcement inspector. Permits can be obtained from City Hall at 120 North Ozark and must be done before work can begin. The maximum cost of any permit is $40. For questions or information contact Code Enforcement at 724-4543 or 724-8918.

Turning on Electric - In some cases getting the electric turned on for a business or residence will require an inspection of the electrical system and any upgrades to code must be met before the electric in fact is turned on.

The City of Girard Code Enforcement Department welcomes you to our city!