Code enforcement – what is it, and why do we have it?
The City of Albion has a designated set of codes or ordinances to help maintain the standards and values for the community. This includes state laws and regulations. The codes range from lawn maintenance like grass length and snow removal to bulk item issues, all in the efforts to maintain a safe and appealing community.
How it works
Code & Zoning Enforcement Officer, Liz Loomis, registers neighborhood complaints, monitors areas, and works with the local police to keep the community orderly. If a code is not followed, for example bulk items like mattresses, furniture, appliances within a yard, a Notice to Abate is posted and/or mailed to the residency, giving the owners a notice to remove the items within a set timeframe.
It’s not just a “make it happen” situation for certain codes, the City provides resources and support for residences. Loomis informs violators of tools such as Granger Wastes bulk item removal process or available low-income grants to improve houses, and even low-interest rate loans for residents to improve their spaces.
If you receive a letter or posting from the City and need support, do not hesitate to contact the City’s Code & Zoning Department at (517) 629-7823.
Most Common Ordinance Violations
Grass Length – Article III Sec. 90-68 Weed growth prohibited.
On underdeveloped and developed properties, grass, brush, scrub trees, and trees must be maintained at a height of ten inches or less.
Sidewalk Snow Removal – Article I Sec. 74-22 Sidewalk obstructions; snow and ice accumulations—Duty of abutting property owners.
Within 24 hours of snow fall, the owner, occupant, tenant or lessee of the premises must remove accumulated snow from public sidewalks.
Sweeping leaves or grass clippings into the street. – Article III Sec. 66-243 Sweeping into gutters.
No person shall sweep into or deposit in any gutter, street or other public place the accumulation of litter, dirt, waste, trash or debris.
Read all the City of Albion’s ordinances at https://library.municode.com/mi/albion/codes/code_of_ordinances
Bulk Item Removal with Granger Waste Services
Granger will remove one bulk item for free very month (furniture, mattress, appliances without freon). Items awaiting pick-up must be properly stored (inside a closed garage/shed, in a house, etc.), and items can only be placed n the curb the evening prior to the scheduled pick-up date.
The bulk pick is every Friday, and you must call Granger to schedule a pick-up (517) 372-2800.