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1. What types of home improvement do I not need a permit to complete?

Permits are not required for maintenance/repairs such as re-shingling a roof, installing or replacing vinyl siding. Window and/or door replacement does not require a permit so long as the opening sizes and placement remain the same.

2. How many people are allowed to live at my house or apartment?

This can easily be checked by either calling our office or viewing the Rental Housing List. Typically rentals in R-1 and R-2 zones are limited to 3 unrelated persons or a family of any size; however, maximum occupancy also depends upon floor area in the residence.

3. If I want to convert my home into a residential rental property what are some of the requirements?

The biggest obstacle in converting an owner-occupied home into a rental property is meeting off-street parking requirements. This equates to 1 space per occupant with a minimum of 2 spaces regardless (i.e. 3 tenants would require 3 spaces, 1 tenant would require 2 spaces because of the minimum). There are other requirements as outlined in the Athens City Code Title 29 such as smoke detectors with a 10-year non-replaceable/non-removable battery, annually inspected and tagged fire extinguishers with a minimum 2A10BC rating, carbon monoxide detectors in dwellings with gas service or attached garages, etc. You can get a general idea of what is expected by viewing the Rental Housing Checklist.

4. What should I expect if I have a party at my house?

The immediate issue would be possible violation of the noise ordinance which is enforced by the Athens Police Department. The recommendation would be to have consideration for your neighbors and keep the noise level to a minimum after dark.

Also, keep in mind that if you have litter or trash in your yard or on your porch such as cups, bottles, cans, debris, you may be issued a violation carrying a fine beginning at $20 and escalating up to $100.