Code Enforcement Level I Flashcards

Study Notes

Land Measurements and Descriptions

An acre is a parcel of land consisting of 43,560 square feet, equating to about 208.71 feet in dimension.
Government survey method establishes a grid system to describe land, utilizing base lines (East-West lines) and meridians (North-South lines).
A section represents one square mile of land, while a township is a 36 square-mile area formed by six-mile square layouts.

Legal Instruments and Boundaries

A deed conveys ownership of land, while easements grant rights for utility access or passage over another's property.
Legal descriptions are precise methods of identifying property, ensuring clarity in ownership and boundaries.
Building lines refer to the setbacks from property boundaries where construction is not permitted.

Codes and Regulations

Building codes are sets of regulations that govern construction standards, ensuring safety and compliance.
Zoning ordinances dictate land use and development, aiming to safeguard public health and welfare.
Historical building codes include the Assize of Buildings, which originated in London in 1189, promoting fireproof construction.

Code Enforcement and Compliance

The primary goal of code enforcement is voluntary compliance through education and communication with property owners.
Code officers must be trained and knowledgeable about technical and administrative aspects of adopted codes.
Mechanisms for achieving compliance include public education, informal notices, and citizen involvement within communities.

Historical Context

The earliest known building codes were introduced by King Hammurabi around 2000 B.C. in the Babylonian Empire.
The Great Fire of London in 1666 led to the enactment of the London Building Act, enhancing building safety regulations.
The Chicago Fire of 1871 prompted the city to develop building ordinances to prevent future disasters.

Administrative and Legal Procedures

Code Enforcement Boards and Special Magistrates serve as quasi-judicial bodies to adjudicate code violations.
Citations can be issued as formal enforcement methods, requiring property owners to comply with regulations.
Appeals of code enforcement orders must be filed within 30 days with the circuit court.

Community Involvement and Education

Citizen participation is crucial for fostering community standards and enhancing property values.
Disseminating information through pamphlets and community meetings encourages awareness of local codes and regulations.
Effective public education helps minimize the need for formal enforcement actions, promoting a cooperative community atmosphere.

Document and Communication Standards

Reports serve as permanent records that encapsulate pertinent information for future reference and action.
The AVO (Actor, Verb, Objective) and OVA (Objective, Verb, Actor) frameworks facilitate clarity in communication.
Effective written communication should aim for accessibility, adjusting complexity based on the audience's reading level (e.g., 17 words per sentence for high school education).

Additional Guidelines and Terminology

A plat book contains public records of subdivisions with maps showing property lines and dimensions.
Blight results from lack of maintenance, posing risks to community aesthetics and property values.
Florida State Statute 162 outlines local law enforcement powers, establishing protocol for those who violate ordinances.

Description

Test your knowledge with these flashcards focused on the fundamentals of code enforcement. Each card covers essential terms and definitions crucial for understanding land measurement and regulations. Perfect for students preparing for Level I certification in code enforcement.