Property Maintenance Code and Occupancy Permits - What are they and why do we need them?

O'Fallon desires to preserve the quality of it's housing and protect it's residents and neighborhoods from deterioration, which threatens the health, safety, and welfare of the entire community, by providing a comprehensive property maintenance code. One of the biggest investments you will make is the purchase of your home. Properly maintained homes and neighborhoods can protect you and your family from unnecessary decreasing property values or hazardous conditions.

The Property Maintenance Code is a nationally recognized standard in which the City can regulate the minimum health and safety requirements for existing buildings, structures, and property. To provide guidance for inspections, O'Fallon relies on the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code, which establishes standards for the upkeep of neighborhoods and prevents public nuisances such as accumulation of trash, high weeds, and derelict vehicles. Property owners in violation of the property maintenance code will be notified in writing of the reasons for violation and given a reasonable time period in which to comply. These standards are based upon the community’s desires to maintain the high quality of living in O'Fallon.

The City wants to ensure that all residential and non-residential properties are maintained and meet the minimum requirements of the Property Maintenance Code.  We accomplish this by performing inspections on those properties at a change of occupancy or ownership. The Property Maintenance Code provides the basis of the City's Residential and Commercial Occupancy Permit program. The owner of a home, apartment unit or commercial building, including tenant spaces, must apply for an Occupancy Permit when the occupancy or ownership changes. Certain commercial uses that raise additional safety concerns may require annual inspections.  If the unit or building has had an inspection applied for and issued within the last two years, at the change of occupancy or sale, an inspection is not normally required. The permit application may be applied for in the Community Development Department.  The permit must be obtained within thirty (30) days of application. It is the owner's responsibility to pay all necessary fees and arrange to make units available for inspections. Units must have the utilities operational for the inspection.  You may schedule your date and time for the inspection of your property after the application is received and the fee has been paid.  Inspection slots are available between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Friday.  Please call (618)624-4500 x 4 for more information on Occupancy Permits.