FAQs • Creston, IA • CivicEngage

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Building

Please use this link for more information regarding locating your property lines.

2. When do I need a building permit?: Any time you build a new building, enlarge an existing building, or make a change to an existing building that affects its structural characteristics. Major residential remodeling projects and anytime a commercial or industrial building is remodeled.

3. Do I need a permit for a fence?: Maybe, if the fence does not comply with the zoning regulations a permit and approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment will be required. Regulations that apply to fences are under Chapter 168, Section 168.01. Contact the City Building Department at 641-782-2000, Option 3, with questions prior to constructing the fence.

4. Can a fence go on the property line?: Yes, a fence may be constructed up to the property line. Review the regulations that apply to fences, Chapter 168, Section 168.01. Contact your next door neighbor to make sure you both agree where the lot line is.

5. Can I do my own work on my home and do I need a permit?: Homeowners can do work on their own homestead dwelling (does not include rental units). Permits and inspections are required for major remodels and additions and will be issued to the homestead property owner of record. Electrical work done by the homeowner is permitted as long as the work has a permit and is inspected by the City Electrical Inspector. Plumbing work may be done by the homeowner as long as the work has a permit and is inspected by the City Inspector.

6. Do I need a permit for a deck?: Any deck attached to a dwelling, or that serves the primary entrance, requires a permit. A detached deck requires a permit if it is more than thirty inches high or more than one hundred twenty square feet in area.

7. Do I need a permit for a shed or other accessory building?: Possibly, a permit is not needed as long as the building meets all required setbacks and as long as the building is a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool and/or storage shed, playhouse or other similar use and provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.

8. Are frost depth footings required for a detached garage or other accessory building?: Frost depth footings are required for freestanding light-frame construction accessory buildings (detached garages) larger than 780 square feet and for freestanding accessory structures other than light-frame construction larger than 400 square feet. The frost depth for the Creston area is forty-two inches to the bottom of the footing.

9. Where should smoke and/or carbon monoxide detectors be located?: Smoke detectors shall be located in each sleeping area. A smoke and carbon monoxide detector shall be located adjacent to sleeping areas and a smoke detector should be located on each level of a dwelling in addition to those serving sleeping areas.

10. Where should ground-fault electrical receptacles be located?: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements, garages and as exterior electrical outlets.

11. Is a permit required for an above ground swimming pool?: No, however, setback requirements are the same as for other accessory structures and special barrier requirements may apply. Contact the Building Inspector at 641-782-2000, Ext. 205 for help with specific requirements.

12. How do I find out how my property is zoned?: Contact the Public Works Department at 641-782-2000, Option 3, or refer to the City of Creston zoning map.

13. How can I find out if my property is in a flood zone?: Flood information is handled by the Public Works Department. Call the office at 641-782-2000, Option 3, for assistance.

1. How do I pay a snow removal or parking ticket?: You come to the Creston Police Department at 302 North Pine Street to pay your ticket. We only accept cash, check, or money order – no debit or credit cards. For more information, please call the Police Department at 641-782-8402.

2. How do I pay a traffic citation?: All traffic citations (speeding tickets, registration violation tickets etc.) are paid at the Union County Clerk of Court. For more information, please call the Police Department at 641-782-8402.

3. When is snow removal in effect?: Snow removal is in effect from November 15 until March 31 every year. Downtown parking is alternate year round. For more information, please call the Police Department at 641-782-8402.

4. How do I get a copy of an accident or police report?: You may come to the Law Enforcement Center to request and receive a copy of a police report. There is no charge for a report for the person involved. For non-involved parties there is a $5 charge for reports only. Any recordings such as radio traffic or phone calls are subject to other fees. For more information, please call the Police Department at 641-782-8402.

5. How do I get ahold of Animal Control?: Animal Control for the City of Creston is on duty Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. You call the Police Department at 641-782-8402 and they dispatch Animal Control. If you want to adopt an animal, contact C.A.R.E. at 641-782-2330 and make sure to leave a message.

6. How do I get a copy of my criminal history?: You must go through the Division of Criminal Investigation to get a copy of your criminal history. For more information visit the Iowa Criminal History Records Checks page.

7. How do I get a copy of my driving record?: You must go through the Department of Transportation. We do not provide this service at this time. For more information, please call the Police Department at 641-782-8402.

8. How do I get ahold of a domestic abuse advocate?: You can call the Crisis Intervention and Advocacy Center at 800-400-4884. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

9. How do I file for a protection order?: You must go through the Clerk of Court to file for a protection order. For more information, please call the Police Department at 641-782-8402.