Code Enforcement
The Code Enforcement officer implements and enforces building codes and zoning ordinances that promote personal safety and best public planning practices.
Job Duties
- Provide information to property owners and building contractors concerning usages, setbacks, districts, etc.
- Issue building permits, verify compliance, and facilitate appeal requests as needed.
- Provide staff support for the Board of Appeals, Planning & Zoning Commission, Dutch Storefront Committee, and other groups as assigned.
- Serves as Building Inspector to ensure building codes compliance via on-site inspection.
- Updates and enforces the Municipal Code of Ordinances in cooperation with the City Clerk, Police, and Public Works departments.
- Maintains the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Land Use Map, Zoning Map, and City Limit Map
- Facilitates private purchases of City owned, residential building lots.
Code of Ordinances
To view the City of Orange City’s Code of Ordinances, please click here.
Contact Us
Permits and Licenses
Building Permit & Inspections
Here are some items that require a permit:
- New house or Commercial & Industrial building
- Addition to house or Commercial & Industrial building
- New garage
- Garage addition
- Finish basement
- Interior remodeling
- Fence
- Signs
- Decks
- Lawn sheds
If you are unsure whether a permit is required check first by contacting the Code Enforcement Officer at 712-707-4885.
What needs to be inspected:
- Footings
- Foundation walls
- Electrical rough in
- Framing rough in
- Plumbing rough in
- Final inspection
*Please note that a 24-hour notice is required to schedule an inspection.
Other Permits and Licenses
- Food/beverage truck
- Peddler/solicitor
- Transient merchant
- Special event
- Sound permit
- Rental housing
The City utilizes Cloudpermit to review and approve all of the above permit and license requests. Please use the following link to create an account and complete your application.
Code Enforcement Violation/Complaint
Please click here to file a Code Enforcement Violation/Complaint on Cloudpermit.
Rental Property Owner Resources
The Rental Housing Program sets the minimum standards and includes ongoing inspections for all rental housing units in Orange City to maintain an acceptable standard of living for residents living in rental properties.
Rental Housing Permit application (Cloudpermit)
Residential Lots Available
Please click here to find city-owned residential lots for sale. For more information call 712-707-4885.
Adjustment & Appeals
The Board of Adjustment serves as an independent decision-making body for specific zoning matters established by City ordinance and Iowa law. The Board hears appeals of zoning decisions made by City staff, considers requests for variances when unique property conditions create unnecessary hardship, and reviews certain special exceptions allowed by the zoning ordinance. Its role is to ensure the zoning regulations are applied fairly while protecting the public interest.
Planning & Zoning
The Planning & Zoning Commission serves in an advisory role to the City Council on matters related to land use, development, and community planning. The Commission reviews proposed zoning changes, subdivision plats, and public improvement projects to ensure they align with the City’s plans and ordinances. After reviewing these items, the Commission provides recommendations to the City Council, which makes the final decisions.
Dutch Front & Reimbursement Program
Orange City’s Dutch architecture is a defining part of our community’s identity. This program encourages the preservation and development of Dutch-inspired buildings in the Business District, helping maintain the unique character and charm that make Orange City special. To encourage these improvements, the City also offers financial incentives to eligible property owners who incorporate Dutch-themed architectural elements into storefronts and nearby properties.
For information on the Dutch Front & Reimbursement Program, please click here.
Sidewalk Reimbursement Program
The Orange City Council has identified the repair, reconstruction, and new construction of sidewalks in the City as an important goal and will create a more pedestrian-friendly “walkable” community. The Council has allocated $20,000 for property owners to aid in the repair, replacement, or construction of sidewalks pursuant to the grant program terms.
Reimbursement for a new sidewalk or sidewalk repair in the city right-of-way will be determined by the yearly concrete rate on July 1 of each year. Square foot reimbursements for repairs or new sidewalks will be $3.75/square foot up to $1,000 per project and $3.00/square foot for mud jacking a sidewalk up to $1,000 per project.