Frequently Asked Questions

Code Enforcement Overview  |  Common Violations 
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General Questions

It seems like the Code Enforcement Officers target my block. Why are they harassing us? Why do they have to drive around anyway? What do they do?

Code Enforcement is an important part of maintaining property values. Keeping properties safe, sanitary, and well maintained allows everyone to enjoy your neighborhood. It may seem like the Officers are on your block frequently, however, this is part of their normal route. They drive the City’s streets and notify property owners of any violations. This proactive approach has kept property values higher in Ferndale that in some surrounding communities.

How come it looks like nothing is done about my complaint?

Often code enforcement action isn’t visible. If a ticket is written, it has to proceed through the court system before any action is taken. This can take many weeks or even months. You can call Code Enforcement and request an update on the complaint.

Are Code Enforcement Officers allowed to trespass on private property?

Inspectors can walk on public areas of a property – the driveway, sidewalk, service walk, front porch – without permission. They sometimes get permission from neighbors to view an adjacent yard if there are suspected violations.

What should I do about rats?

Refer to the handout on the webpage.

Do I need a permit for a residential fence?

Yes, contact the City Clerk’s office at (248)546-2384.

What else do I need a permit for?

Refer to the Community Development page for detailed information, fees, and permit applications.  If you have a question or are unsure about a permit or inspection, call (248)546-2367.  You must have a permit before starting work. A double fee is assessed if work is started without a permit.

Vehicles

Is my neighbor allowed to park his car in his driveway for 2 weeks?

Non-commercial vehicles can be parked as long as they remain licensed and operable.

Am I allowed to keep my camper at my house?

A camper, or any recreational vehicle, must comply with the following regulations:

In all Residential Districts, a recreational vehicle (boat, ATV, jet ski, snow mobile, etc) may be parked or stored subject to the following conditions:

1. No recreational vehicle parked or stored on single-family residential property shall exceed thirty (30) feet in length or ten (10) feet in width.
2. Recreational vehicles, other than motor homes, may be parked or stored within the side or rear yard, but no closer than three (3) feet from any side or rear lot line.
3. Recreational vehicles must be parked or stored on a hard-surface consisting of asphalt, concrete or other material approved by the Building Inspector.
4. No recreational vehicle shall have fixed connections to electricity, water, gas or sanitary sewer facilities. Temporary connections for recharging batteries and filling water tanks shall be permitted.
5. All recreational vehicles must be kept in good repair and carry a current license and registration.
6. No recreational vehicle shall be parked on a public street, alley, or right-of-way, except as required for loading and unloading purposes for no more than twenty-four (24) hours.
7. Outdoor parking or storage of no more than two (2) recreational vehicles, other than motor homes, is permitted on a single or two-family residential lot. No recreational vehicle may be parked or stored outdoors in the R-3 and R-4 Districts.
8. Motor homes may be parked on a single or two family lot for a maximum of two (2) weeks in any six (6) month period. During that period only, a motor or mobile home may be occupied and temporarily connected to electricity.

Trash

Can I put my garbage cans on the side of my house between pick-ups?

Garbage cans must be placed at the rear of each building or structure at a place that is reasonably inconspicuous and away from places occupied by other persons and from streets.　

I’m going on vacation. Can I put my garbage cans out early?

For weekly collection, garbage cans shall not be placed prior to 4:00pm of the day preceding the scheduled collection day or on Sunday or on a holiday prior to 9:00pm.

Tall grass, weeds, trees in neighbors’ yards

The house next door has really tall grass and weeds. What can be done?

Grass must be kept mowed 7" or less. If it is not, a Notice of Violation may be sent. NOTE: the City is not required to personally notify you of the violation. If your grass isn’t mowed within 5 days, the City’s contractor will mow it; the charge is at least $275.

My neighbor’s tree hangs over my yard. What can I do?

The City does not get involved with neighbor disputes about trees on private property. You may trim the branches that hang over your property; however you may be liable if the tree dies as a result of your trimming. The owner can be held liable in civil court if the tree causes any damage on your property. Other than foliage that obstructs a sidewalk or visually obstructs an intersection, there is no requirement to trim vegetation.

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The City of Ferndale, Michigan
300 East Nine Mile Road
Ferndale, Michigan  48220
(248) 546-2525
City Hall Hours:
Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:30pm
Closed Fridays