Permits for Model Homes

Construction of Zoning Model Homes Prior to Plat Recordation


After receiving a written request from the developer/contractor, zoning may approve the construction of model homes prior to plat recordation.  The written request will be routed to related Divisions/Departments for approval after the 1st model request.  

Subdivisions and Developments with new internal Streets:

Zoning may approve the construction of not more than four (4) single family homes; or four (4) duplex buildings; or one row of townhouses not to exceed eight (8) attached dwelling units, per the Final approved plan. 

In the case of property that is zoned for multi-family use, there is no restriction on the number of model homes that can be constructed on the property after final site plan approval and proper issuance of building permits. 

For Zoning approval, construction and occupancy is to be in accordance with the following criteria, which are not subject to modification: 

1.  A final subdivision or site plan has been approved for the property where the model homes are to be located;  

2.  Model homes must meet all design, development and performance standards as delineated by the development standards;

3.  The lots shall have direct access to streets for which construction plans have been approved and the base stone installed prior to building permit issuance to accommodate emergency vehicles as determined by the department of Development & Permits. Prior to CO/TCO, an all-weather street surface is required per section 70-7.; 

4.  An operational municipal system or alternate water source, as approved by the fire department in accordance with the public facilities manual, is installed and made available to the lots where model homes are to be located;  

5.  Street signs, which are to be maintained by the building until the plat has been recorded, have been approved by the departments of planning and public works and installed where the model homes are located; and 

6.  Notwithstanding section 78-86 of the City Code, all necessary fees have been paid as they relate to water and sewer service connections for each model to be constructed provided, however, that no permanent certificate of occupancy shall be issued until the City certifies that the model homes are connected to required water and sewer service.

Subdivisions in rural areas and along existing Streets:

Zoning may approve the construction of not more than one (1) single family homes, per the Final approved plan.  Prior to approval, Permits Services Administrator will email a written request to related Divisions/Departments for approval. 

For zoning approval, construction and occupancy is to be in accordance with the following criteria, which are not subject to modification:  

  1. A final subdivision or site plan has been approved for the property where the model homes are to be located; 
  2. State Construction General Permit has been obtained, City land disturbing permit has been issued and subdivision bonds posted.
  3. Model homes must meet all design, development and performance standards as delineated by the development standards;
  4. The lots shall have direct access to streets for which construction plans have been approved and the base stone installed to accommodate emergency vehicles as determined by the department of Development & Permits;
  5. An operational municipal system or alternate water source, as approved by the fire department in accordance with the public facilities manual, is installed and made available to the lots where model homes are to be located (if available);  .
  6. Notwithstanding section 78-86 of the City Code, all necessary fees have been paid as they relate to water and sewer service connections for each model to be constructed provided, however, that no permanent certificate of occupancy shall be issued until the City certifies that the model homes are connected to required water and sewer service (if available).
  7. No model permit will be issued for a one lot subdivision. 

Prior to the construction of a model home, the applicant must obtain building permits as required by City ordinance and the Uniform Statewide Building Code. After construction of the model home in accordance with all criteria herein, a temporary certificate of occupancy, which shall expire twenty-four (24) months after issuance, must be obtained from the department of Development and Permits – Zoning division allowing the use of the building as a model home. Upon expiration of the temporary certificate of occupancy, a permanent certificate must be obtained. 

A model home shall not be used as a residence until after the final subdivision plat has been approved by the city and recorded with the clerk of the circuit court and a permanent certificate of occupancy is issued. 

Additionally, failure to comply with any requirement may result in revocation of the certificate of occupancy, temporary or permanent, by the city.