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Community Development

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1. When is a building permit required?

A building permit is required for any new construction, demolition, construction of room addition, alteration, basement or bathroom finish, adding a garage, carport, deck, sunroom, shed, play house over thirty-two (32) s.f., and swimming pools. A completed Building Permit Application as well as site plans and other requested materials stated in the Guidelines must be submitted to the City of Columbia Clerk’s Office to begin the approval process.  Click here for applications

2. Do I need a permit to install a fence?

Yes. All new and replacement fences must meet the requirements of the Columbia City Code, primarily contained in Ordinance No. 2076. The maximum height of a fence is 6 feet, and you must be able to maintain both sides of the fence on your own property. A Fence Permit Application and site plan indicating the location of fence, relative to street frontage and other structures on property must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office. Please note, city approval does not constitute subdivision approval. The city recommends you contact trustees in your subdivision for any subdivision requirements

3. How long does it take to get a building permit?

In most cases, if applicant meets all requirements, the typical permit request will be processed and issued in three (3) to five (5) working days after the information is submitted. Larger commercial-type construction projects would need additional time as the review process is very extensive.

4. What happens if I work without a permit?

Persons performing work without required permits are subject to legal action and may be issued a citation. At a minimum property will be posted with a “Stop Work Order” until a permit is issued.

5. How far off of the property line must I be if I want to build something?

It depends on the zoning districts which your house is located. Please call the Building Permit Office (618 / 281-7144 ext. 105) for specific setback requirements.

6. Can I put a small yard shed in my backyard and is a permit required?

Yes, if requirements are met, however you must have a permit. Small yard sheds must be placed on a slab, concrete piers or a permanent foundation. The shed placement must meet setback requirements. Please note, city approval does not constitute subdivision approval. The city recommends you contact trustees in your subdivision for any subdivision requirements.

7. I want to add a bedroom in the basement. Is a permit necessary?

Yes, because bedrooms have a requirement for emergency access. Firemen have to able to get into the bedroom from the outside. Therefore, the window must be a certain size. The permit process allows us to insure all requirements are met.

8. Is it necessary to have a building permit to replace a roof?

No, however your roofer must be licensed with the State of Illinois.

9. Are inspections required on rental property?

It is the responsibility of all rental property owners to have their rental property inspected before a tenant moves in. If a tenant moves out of the rental property and another tenant moves in within one year of the inspection, it is not necessary to have it reinspected, but the new tenant needs to apply for an Occupancy Permit . However, if a tenant moves out after one year of the inspection, the rental property needs to be inspected again. The landlord must pay the inspection fee to the City Clerk’s Office before an inspection can be scheduled.

10. Do I need an Occupancy Permit if I am renting?

Yes. You can apply for an Occupancy Permit and pay the fee at the City Clerk’s Office.

11. Do I need an Occupancy Permit if I own a home?

Effective the summer of 2006 the City of Columbia will be enforcing Ordinance No. 2381 which states all new home owners will be required to have an Occupancy Permit. In addition, inspections are required by a City of Columbia Building Inspector for all homes being sold over five (5) years old. The new home owner is required to apply for an Occupancy Permit, however, this permit cannot be issued until the home inspection has been approved by the Building Inspector. If all requirements are met, an Occupancy Permit will be approved and issued. This is a general guide; all requirements in Ordinance No. 2381 are extensive. For specific questions please contact the Building Permit Office at (618) 281-7144 ext. 105.

12. What is a Special Use Permit?

A Special Use Permit allows developments listed in the Official Zoning Ordinance which have been designated “Special Uses” within particular districts. These may be uses of public benefit or service uses which, although generally considered desirable or compatible with other uses, permitted as-of-right in the zoning district in which they are located, require special use review. This review is performed by the Columbia Planning Commission at their regularly scheduled meeting, at a public hearing before the Commission.  Click here for applications

13. What is a Variance Request?

The purpose of a variance is to provide relief to a property owner when strict adherence to the regulations of the Zoning Ordinance would impose an unreasonable hardship. Variations are granted only to provide relief in unusual situations which are not intended or foreseen when the Zoning Ordinance was adopted. Applicants will need to complete a Request for Variance Application and submit to the City Clerk’s Office.  Click here for applications

14. What is the difference between a Special Use and a Variance?

Granting of a “Variance” refers to the property and remains in effect even though the ownership of the property may change. A “Special Use” is granted to the person requesting the “Special Use Permit.” If ownership of the property changes the new owner must request at “Special Use Permit” as well.

15. How do I apply for a zoning change?

To request a zoning change for your property you must complete a “Request for Zoning Amendment” application and submit to the City Clerk’s Office.  Click here for applications

16. I am just replacing my countertops, do I need to have a plumbing inspection for re-connecting my sink back up after replacing the counters?

You do not need an inspection for re-connecting a sink after just simply replacing your counter tops.

17. I want to install an above ground pool what do I need to do?

If you are going to install an above ground pool you will need to complete a building permit and if you are going to need to have electrical work done for the pool you will also need to list an Electrical Contractor. Click here for electrical contractors registered with the City of Columbia. For the pool permit application click here.

18. If I am installing a pool do I need to have a fence installed?

Fence requirements for pools are as follows:

• If your pool is at least 4ft tall you only need to have lockable and removable stairs no fence required.
• If your pool is under 4ft tall you will need to have a fence installed if you do not already and you will need a fence permit. (provide link to fence permit)
• If you are putting a deck around your pool you will need to make sure that it’s surroundings are at least 4ft tall or you will need a fence as well.

You can download a fence application here. 

19. When do I need a Home Occupation Permit?

You will need a Home Occupation Permit if you live within the City limits and work from home. 

20. I am installing a screened in porch do I need a permit?

If you are not installing any wall for the porch and just attaching to the current structure you do not need a permit to install a screened in porch.

21. I am buying a house in Columbia what do I need to do?

If you are purchasing a house in Columbia you need to make sure the following things are done. 

• The house has an inspection that has been done within the past year unless it is was built under 5 years ago. 
• If no inspection yet, fill out Residential Inspection Application. 
• Pay @ Clerk’s Office or online, it is $85.00 for the inspection, usually this is the seller’s responsibility unless you are buying as is. 
• Schedule appointment to have inspection done at 618-281-7144 ext. 105.

22. Can I fill out paperwork online and pay over the phone?

You can fill out paperwork online, a lot of our forms are fillable PDF’s which means you can just type your information online and print or email the form to us. You may pay online with a credit card (look for the online payments icon on our homepage) or stop by the Clerk's office in person to pay with cash, check or credit card. 

23. If we are having a wall taken down in our house do we need a permit and does the inspector need to look at it?

You will need a building permit and it will need to be inspected. Fill out the Building Permit as specified and if there is anything else that needs done we will get with you.

24. I am installing new boards on my porch and wanted to know if that would require that I install rails?

If the adjacent grade is 30” or more you will need to install rails.

25. I want to install a retaining wall in my back yard and put a patio on top of it. Do I need a building permit?

Normally, unless you are in a flood plain you do not need a permit for this. Just make sure you stay away from the drainage easement on your property.

26. I am looking at property in a neighborhood that is now on septic and saw that there is a sewer line close by does the City require that I connect to that sewer line?

If you are within 200 feet of a sewer line the City does require that you connect to it and there will be the additional costs to consider when purchasing the property.

27. When installing a roof what energy code does the City follow?

The City follows the same energy code as the state of Illinois.

28. I am wanting to install a small fence around my air conditioner do I need a fence permit?

Yes, you still need to apply for a fence permit.  

29. I am tearing down my existing deck and building a new one on top of the existing piers, do I still need a building permit?

If you are taking down beams and structural elements then you will need a building permit, if you are just replacing parts then you will not need a building permit.

30. What are the costs for a building permit?

You can find the cost information for a building permit in our municipal code.

31. How tall of a fence can I install on my property?

The maximum fence height is 6ft tall. 

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Community Development - Residential Inspections

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1. How much does an inspection cost?

• Inspection fee - $85 (includes one re-inspection, if necessary)
• Over one re-inspection - $85 each

2. How long is my inspection good for?

Inspections are good for one year. Property owners, who have previously received a Certificate of Compliance, wishing to sell a dwelling under five years old, will not need an inspection. However, it will still be the new owner’s/occupant’s responsibility to obtain an Occupancy Permit from City Hall.

3. What are the fees for building permits and inspections?

Inspection fees are included in the Building Permit fee for newly constructed dwellings. Inspections must be scheduled with the Building Permit Office at appropriate times throughout the building process. The Occupancy Permit fee is also included in the Building Permit fee if occupancy immediately follows the issuance of Certificate of Compliance approval.

4. When are inspections scheduled?

Inspections are done on Mondays from 9 am to 3 pm and Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 am to 2 pm for all residential occupancy permits.

5. How do I schedule and pay for my inspection?

There are a few different ways you can schedule and pay for your inspection:

• Come into City Hall and complete an application and pay $85 to the Clerk’s Office.
• Complete your application online and print out and bring in and pay the 85.

We will not schedule your inspection until the form has been completed and payment has been made.

6. What happens after my inspection?

Once your inspection has been completed it will take 3 to 5 days to get the results of the inspection. If the property passed the inspection you will receive a Certificate of Compliance if the inspection did not pass you will receive an Inspection Report outlining the items that will need to be completed prior to issuance of Certificate of Compliance.

7. Does someone need to be present for my home or rental inspection?

Yes, the home owner or owner’s representative needs to be present for the inspection.

8. Does the buyer or seller apply for inspection?

The seller (property owner) or seller’s representative needs to apply for the inspection.

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Emergency Management- Sirens

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1. Where are the sirens located?

1. Entrance road to the Immaculate Conception Church property
2. Next to the Cherry Street water tower
3. Bethany United Methodist Church property
4. Next to the bulk water sales building off Admiral Trost Drive
5. Behind the Department of Public Works building

2. What are the tones?

All three tones can be heard via the 3 following links:

• Fire Call - Wail (MP3)
• Noon and 6 - Westminster Chimes (MP3)
• Tornado - Alert (MP3)

3. Why do I hear church bells at Noon and 6 pm?

One of the components of an effective warning system is to have distinct and easily recognized tones (sirens) for each type of event. It was decided to keep the standard "alert" tone for tornado warnings. Working with the Columbia Fire Department, the "wail" tone was chosen for fire calls since it closely resembles an emergency response siren. The remaining tone, the Noon and 6 p.m. tone, is sounded out of tradition. Once used to alert farmers in the field of dinner (lunch time) and supper time, these tones needed to be distinctly different from the other two. 

With the increased coverage area, it was decided a more subtle tone should be used. As a result, the church bells (Westminster Chimes) were selected.

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Fence

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1. Do I need a permit to install a fence?

Yes. All new and replacement fences must meet the requirements of the Columbia City Code, primarily contained in Ordinance No. 2076. The maximum height of a fence is 6 feet, and you must be able to maintain both sides of the fence on your own property. A Fence Permit Application and site plan indicating the location of fence, relative to street frontage and other structures on property must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office. Please note, city approval does not constitute subdivision approval. The city recommends you contact trustees in your subdivision for any subdivision requirements

2. How tall of a fence can I install on my property?

The maximum fence height is 6ft tall. 

3. I am wanting to install a small fence around my air conditioner do I need a fence permit?

Yes, you still need to apply for a fence permit.  

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Pool

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1. I want to install an above ground pool what do I need to do?

If you are going to install an above ground pool you will need to complete a building permit and if you are going to need to have electrical work done for the pool you will also need to list an Electrical Contractor. Click here for electrical contractors registered with the City of Columbia. For the pool permit application click here.

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Residential Inspections

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1. Does someone need to be present for my home or rental inspection?

Yes, the home owner or owner's representative needs to be present for the inspection. 

2. Does buyer or seller apply for inspection?

The seller(property owner) or seller's representative needs to apply for the inspection. 

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Signs

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1. Where can I find Municipal code for signs?

Visit our website https://www.columbiaillinois.com/9/Municipal-Code. You can find the sign in our municipal code under, Title 15 Buildings and Construction > Chapter 15.44 Sign Code.

2. I am a sign company submitting a permit what do I need to know?

It is very important you review our sign code and ensure you have everything completed properly, not having a clear understanding of the City’s sign code restrictions can delay the permit process.

3. Where can I find a map of my property and what do I need to put on it?

You can review your property by going to https://monroecountyil.maps.arcgis.com/home/index.html and choosing the Parcel Viewer, you can put in address and use provided information as a reference for creating your site. Other areas of reference could be the following:

• Boundary Survey
• Site Survey
• Subdivision Plats
• Development Plans

4. Do I need a permit for Window or Door Signage?

Yes, you can reference section 15.44.190 of the sign code.

5. How much is the Sign Permit fee?

Minimum fee is $55.00 for a sign permit (sign 40 s.f. or less).  There is an additional $2.35 fee per s.f. if the sign is over 40 s.f.

6. Temporary Banners

Please note, temporary banners are allowed to be displayed fourteen (14) days prior to the event, and must be taken down within three (3) days after the event.  Total size of banner must not exceed 16 s.f.  There is a $5.50 fee for a temporary banner; no fee for non-profit groups. NOTE: Banners are NOT permitted on City property or right-of-way, including the corner of N. Main & Route 3 (near gas station) or at the corner of S. Main & Route 3 (near old school house) and shall only be permitted on private property. 

7. What inspections do I need to have done with my sign permit?

You will need a sign inspection for wall, projecting, free standing, monument and electronic message board signs. There are additional charges for inspections for you sign. See chart below for more information. Please call the phone numbers listed to schedule the inspections. Project Manager and/or Building Permit Holder will be required to be at every inspection listed below.

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Water - Boil Order

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1. What is a boil order?

A boil order is a public notification to customers notifying them to boil tap water before consuming it. Boil orders are issued when:

• An event has occurred with the potential to adversely affect water quality (i.e. water main break)
• A situation has occurred where there is known degradation of the water quality

2. How can I receive notifications when a boil order is in effect and has been lifted?

The quickest way to be notified of a boil order is to sign up on "CodeRed." Notification will be posted on the electronic message board located at the corner of Route 3 and Sand Bank Road, and two portable electronic messages boards will be placed in high-traffic areas. Depending on the time of day, notification will also be listed on the home page of this website and the City’s Facebook page.

3. What actions do I need to take?

Do not drink the water without boiling it first. Bring water to a rolling boil, let it boil for five minutes, and cool before using; or use bottled water for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth and preparing food until you are notified that the boil order has been lifted

4. What other steps are recommended?

• Throw away uncooked food or beverages or ice cubes made with tap water during the day(s) of the boil order.
• Water that has been boiled and cooled should be stored in the refrigerator.
• Do not swallow water while you are showering or bathing.
• Provide pets with boiled water after cooling.
• Do not use home filtering devises in place of boiling or using bottled water. Most home water filters will not provide adequate protection for microorganisms.
• Use only water that has been boiled to treat minor injuries. When showering or bathing, avoid allowing the water to come in contact with an open wound.
• Do not wash salad items with tap water. Use bottled water or freshly boiled and cooled tap water.

5. When is a boil water order lifted?

According to the Illinois EPA guidelines, water samples must be collected to test for bacteria in the distribution system. Water Quality samples are taken on the day when the issue (main break, etc.) has been corrected and then incubated 18 to 24 hours, as required by the EPA. Only after this period of time can test results be read. From beginning to end, this process to lift a boil order can take a couple of days to complete.

6. What should I do once the boil order is lifted?

Once lifted, flush household pipes, ice makers, water fountains, etc. prior to using for drinking or cooking. Follow these guidelines for flushing:

• Automatic ice makers: Make three batches of ice and discard them.
• Change refrigerator filters.
• Faucets: Run all cold water faucets in your home for one minute at one time with the highest water flow possible to prevent splashing of flooding of the drains.
• Water softeners: Run for one minute at the highest flow rate possible.

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Water - Quality

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1. Is my water safe to drink?

Our water is safe to drink and meets the standards set by both the federal and state Environmental Protection Agencies.

2. Why does my water have an odor and taste?

Many taste and odor calls are due to the chlorine which is added to the water to kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms. Others are due to tastes and odors in the river which are not removed by the plant and which only a few people can detect.

3. Why is there a white residual on my pots and pans or in the toilet bowl?

Certain times of the year when there is less rainfall, the hardness in the water is higher because there has been no rainfall to dilute the minerals in the river. This hardness can settle out in the plumbing in the form of a white or tan residue. Hardness is calcium carbonate and is a substance that is beneficial to the human body. Deposits can be removed with vinegar or a water softener can be installed to remove the calcium carbonate. A high hardness content can sometimes form an oily appearing film on the top of the water.

4. Why is my water a white color?

If the white clears from the bottom up, it is due to excess air in the water. When the cold water comes into a warm room, the air in the water rises to the top. Sometimes it can actually look like milk. This occurs frequently in the winter months.

5. Why is there a black substance around my shower heads?

Humidity loving molds or fungi in the air may grow on shower heads, in shower stalls or in the back of toilets. The growth is typically seen at the interface of moisture and air.

6. Why is there a black substance in my toilet bowl?

Sometimes rubber gaskets or other plumbing parts in appliances or toilets can break down and need replaced.

7. Why does a pink substance occur in my bathroom?

There is an airborne bacteria that grows in humid conditions that are pink color. Cleaning with a chlorine solution would help.

8. Why is my water red?

Red residue or color in the water is usually caused by the corrosion of galvanized lines in the house, the service line or the distribution system.

9. Why is my water brown?

This can occur when small particles, which have settled out of the water into the main over a period of time, have been stirred up after a hydrant flushing or a fire.

10. Should I get a water softener?

This is a personal choice as there are pros and cons to using hard or soft water. Home softened water is higher in sodium, more likely to corrode pipes, is additional expense, required periodic equipment maintenance and lacks natural calcium and minerals. However, it can save soap and will not result in hardness deposits. Hard water can dry the skin, can build up a residue in the pipes over time, and requires more detergent, but it contains calcium and magnesium minerals.

11. Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?

Sometimes sulfur bacteria can grow in hot water heaters. If this happens, flush the system well with chlorinated water.

12. Why is my water green?

This may be an indication that your copper piping is corroding. This is more likely to occur if your water is softened or if there is improper electrical grounding.