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Arts Parks and Recreation

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1. How do I register for a class or program?

Most classes are able to be registered for online. Click here to see what classes/programs are currently available for online registration. Please note that registering online will also charge a service fee. 

You may also register for most classes/programs in-person at the Athens Community Center or over the phone by calling 740-592-3325.

2. How do I show proof of assistance in order to receive a discounted rate on youth sports registration?

To show proof of assistance for the discounted rate for youth sports, you will need to register in-person at the Athens Community Center and bring your child's insurance card that shows proof of assistance through Athens County Job and Family Services. Or you may also bring any other documentation that shows this assistance. 

3. Can I play my child up an age group in youth sports?

If you feel that your child can follow instruction and play along with children who are older and bigger than them then yes, you may register them for one age group older. If you child is not of age for the program and you have questions about their eligibility, you may email Erin Helms, Program Manager at ehelms@ci.athens.oh.us 

4. How do I sponsor a youth sports team and what does it involve?

To sponsor a team is to provide for the cost of shirts for the team. Sponsors will purchase the shirts directly from the print shop. Typically there are 10 to 15 children on a team so the sponsorship amount depends on the type of shirt, if additional items are printed on the shirt, or if the shirt is only with the sponsor logo. Plain shirts with a logo for a team usually costs between $100 and $150.

5. How do I request to have a Celebration Tree planted on city property?

The City of Athens has a Celebration Tree program to honor a person or event (also known as a memorial tree). There is an application and fee process – this goes through the City Code Office. There is an application fee of $100. The City determines where the tree will be planted and will plant, place a placard, and commit to maintaining the tree for 3 years. 

For more information and to request an application, call the Code Office at 740-592-3306 or email driggs@ci.athens.oh.us 

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Code Enforcement / Community Development

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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.

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Engineering / Public Works

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1. What do I do about a water / sewer line break?

Contact the Department of Public works at (740) 593-7636.  If after hours, follow the prompts to reach the Water or Wastewater Treatments Plants. Do not send an email. If the water flow poses a potential obstruction to traffic or flooding risk seems dangerous, In the event that you see any of the following:

• Water flowing heavily from the ground or a manhole cover when it has not been raining
• Water seeping from a water meter
• Water flowing from a fire hydrant when it has not been activated
• Your faucets don’t run or toilets don’t fill with water after flushing

2. How can I be notified about a boil order?

Boil orders are announced on most local radio stations, on the local government access channel, and the City website.  Residents can sign up for Nixle alerts by texting 45701 to 888-777.  There is also a boil order hotline at (740) 594-5078. For any further questions, contact Engineering / Public Works at (740) 593-7636.

3. How do I get a sewer / water tap installed at my residence?

For information, please call EPW at 740-593-7636. The City Engineer and Director of Public Works sets the fees for the taps according to the Ohio EPA Flow guide. Residents that want to visit in person can bring a copy of their plans to EPW. Once the plans are reviewed, the fees will be calculated. 

Tap Fee Explanation:  Tap Fees are composed of “capacity fees” and “connection fees”.  Capacity fees are a computation of potential new demand on the water and sewer (sanitary and storm) systems, based on the comparison of the facility to be built with the new demand placed on system by a single family home.  The attached facilities benefit assessment shows the basis for these computations.  The connection fee is the cost of city workers to make the actual tie in to the city mains.  This cost is determined by actual time and materials used for such work (no overhead or profit since the city is a public entity) and is billed after the connection occurs.  This cost is driven by the difficulty of the connection and material required to replace the street – it is difficult to estimate beforehand, but usually falls between $500 and $5000.

All capacity fees must be paid at Athens Utilities Billing Office prior to scheduling actual tap, which will occur in a 6-week window after capacity fees are paid.  This capacity fee calculation is independent of other plan notes mentioned on the site plan review memo.

Please note – time and material by city personnel of the actual connection will be charged in addition to the capacity fees above after the connection is complete and require payment before account is activated.

City of Athens, Ohio

FACILITIES BENEFIT ASSESSMENT

based on EPA FLOW GUIDE

As required by O-123-10 and O-123-11

PLACE                                                                                 ESTIMATED GALLONS PER DAY

                                                                                                                                                WATER                 SEWER

Single Family Homes                                                                          400                         ($1,300)                 ($3,000)

           

Apartments/Condos           (One Bedroom Units)                          150                         ($487.50)              ($1,125)

Apartments/Condos           (Two Bedroom Units)                         250                         ($812.50)              ($1,875)

Apartments/Condos           (Three Bedroom Units)                       350                         ($1,137.50)           ($2,625)

               

Assembly Halls/Classrooms                                                              2 per seat

Beauty Shops                                                                                       200 per basin (work station)

Bowling Alleys (No Food Service)                                                    75 per seat

Bowling Alleys (With Food Service)                                 100 per seat

Churches (No Kitchen)                                                                       4 per seat

Churches (With Kitchen)                                                                    6 per seat

Country Clubs                                                                                      50 per member

Dance Halls                                                                                          2 per seat

Factories (No Showers)                                                                       25 per employee

Factories (With Showers)                                                                   35 per employee

Food Service Operations:

Ordinary Restaurants (Not 24 Hour)                               35 per seat

24-hour Restaurants                                                           50 per seat

Banquet Rooms                                                                  5 per seat

Tavern                                                                                   35 per seat

Curb Service/Drive-Thru window                                     50 per seat

Vending Machine Hall                                                       100 per seat

Hospital (No Resident Personnel)                                                     300 per bed

Institutions (Residents)                                                                       100 per person

Laboratories                                                                                         0.2 per square foot

Laundries (Coin Operated)                                                                                400 per machine

Mobile Home Parks                                                                            300 per space

Motels                                                                                                    100 per unit

Rooming Homes/Houses (Not more than                                      100 per unit

 13 residents)

Nursing and Rest Homes                                                                   150 per Patient + 100 per Resident                                                                                                                                                  Employee + 50 per Non-Resident Employee

Office Buildings                                                                                   20 per Employee

Retail Store                                                                                           20 per Employee

Schools (Elementary)                                                                         15 per pupil

Schools (High or Jr. High)                                                                  20 per pupil

Physical Fitness Centers, Gyms                                                        20 per customer/member

Service Stations                                                                                   1000 for first bay or pump island +

500 for each additional island

Shopping Centers (No Food Service)                                               0.2 per square foot

Shopping Centers (With Food Service)                                            0.3 per square foot

Vacation Cottage                                                                                                100 per occupant

Dormitory (Over 13 Residents)                                                         50 per day/resident

 (No Food Service)

Club Houses/Recreational Facilities                                                                5 per member/user +

(With Food Service and Showers)                                                    35 per seat in food service area

Club Houses/Recreational Facilities                                                                2 per member/user +

(With Food Service and No Showers)                                              35 per seat in food service area

Club Houses/Recreational Facilities                                                                2 per member/user

(With No Food Service and No Showers)                       

STORM SEWERS                                                                               $0.10 PER SQUARE FOOT OF INCREASE IN IMPERVIOUS SURFACE, FOR EVERY 2500 SQUARE FEET OR PART THEREOF.

OEPA  385-8501

divide all outcomes by 400 gal., single family equivalent                                          

4. Where can I request a street closure or the movement of a dumpster?

All requests for the temporary closure of a street, sidewalk, or alleyway or requests for the temporary placement of a dumpster must be submitted to the Deputy Service Safety Director at 8 East Washington Street, phone number (740) 592-3338. To close or block a city street without proper authorization is unlawful and could potentially pose a risk to public safety.

5. My car was damaged by a pothole on a street maintained by the city. Can I receive compensation for the repair?

The City of Athens Engineering and Public Works Department will consider claims for reimbursement for vehicle repair costs sustained by a pothole or other distress in a city street. In order for a claim to be fully considered, the pothole in question must have already been identified to the EPW Department, and the department failed to repair it in a reasonable amount of time. Under normal working and weather conditions, two (2) business days from the initial report is considered reasonable for the pothole to be properly repaired. Claims for the damage caused by unreported potholes will be considered but the city is not obligated to pay. 

Citizens may first seek compensation from their auto insurance company. The city will only consider dollar amounts up to the deductible amount for the policy owner. For instance, if the damage costs $1000 to repair and the citizen's insurance deductible is $500, the city will consider reimbursement up to $500. 

Procedure: 

The citizens notifies the Engineering and Public Works Department of the intention to place the claim, then provides the following information by email or in person: 

1)The attached completed form

2)Obtain a police report/incident report by stopping by the Athens Police Department located at 11 N College street Athens, Ohio 45701 between the working hours of 8am-4pm.

3)The repair receipt

4)Insurance information:

a)If you have full coverage you must provide your deductible amount

b)If you have liability-only insurance, you must submit proof i.e. declaration page of the insurance binder or

insurance documentation bearing that information

Following the provision of correct documentation the Engineering and Public Works Department will then submit it to the city's insurance carrier for review. The carrier will contact the citizen directly with a determination. 

DOWNLOAD THE FORM HERE

6. I am having concrete work done and am interested in curb by my residence that meets city code. Am I eligible for reimbursement?

Yes. A copy of this policy and procedure is available from the City of Athens. Please contact the Department of Public Works at (740) 593-7936 for more information.

7. I am moving in or out of Athens; how do I activate/deactivate my water?

All changes to water accounts should be submitted to the Utilities Billing Office in City Hall at 8 East Washington Street. The utilities office phone number is (740) 592-3347. Do not contact the Department of Engineering and Public Works to have your water connected / disconnected.

8. How can I dispose of my yard waste?

Beginning July 1st, 2009, all city residents may purchase stamped bags and stickers for bundles at the Utilities Billing Office, Recreation Center front desk, and Code Office.  The stickers may be put on bundles of brush (meeting size limits) which the city will then pick up every Tuesday and Friday. To have the bags and bundles picked up, call the Department Engineering and Public Works yard waste line at 740-592-3343 to leave your pick up request, or to speak to Engineering and Public Works at (740) 593-7636. The cost for the stamped bags and stickers is $2.00 per bag or sticker for bundles. Bags must contain only organic material (this excludes feces or dead animals of any kind) and may not contain trash. Bags must also weigh under 50 pounds and must not be ripped, torn, or susceptible to breaking. Bundles must be tied with string and must be under four feet in length. Limbs of eight inches in diameter or more cannot be picked up and must be disposed of at the discretion of the resident. Calls for yard waste made after 7:30 am on a pickup date will be picked up on the next date.

9. Can I dump brush at the city annex?

The City of Athens does not permit dumping of brush at the city Service Garage Annex for any reason, for anyone. While the city allowed residents to dump brush in the past, this practice has been discontinued due to the number of abuses (i.e., dumping of trash). Any resident who wishes to dispose of brush must cut and bundle it and purchase stickers for the city’s yard waste pickup service, or hire a tree service.

10. What do I do about a downed tree?

Questions about standing dead trees on the City right of way call the City Arborist at 740-592-3338.  The Department of Public Works will clear away dead or dying trees in the public right-of-way if they obstruct traffic or if they pose an immediate safety hazard to the public. Contact (740) 593-7636 and an inspector will come out to determine if the department can cut away the tree. Trees that are damaged or fall within private property must be cleared away by the resident at the resident’s expense.

11. Can I get loads of wood chips from the city?

Residents who call in advance may receive up to one pickup truck load of wood chips from the city annex. No deliveries. While the city provided a front-end loader to load vehicles in the past, this has been discontinued. Any residents who pick up loads of wood chips must load the mulch themselves with their own equipment.

12. There is a dead animal in a city roadway. What should I do?

Notify the Department of Public Works and someone will come to take away the animal, if it is in the city right-of-way.

13. There is a downed power line in the road way. What should I do?

If anyone should find a power line or telephone line down in the roadway, they should immediately contact the power company or telephone company. If the power line appears dangerous, blocks the roadway, is sparking, or is on fire, someone should also notify the fire department right away.

14. How do I dispose of dead leaves in the fall?

Citizens who wish to dispose of their dead leaves during the fall leaf pick-up schedule should rake their leaves to the curb and notify the Department of Public Works., please don't cover catch basins.  The leafing vacuum should sweep up the leaves within a few weeks. However, due to the sheer volume of leaves and problems with running the vacuum truck down certain streets, it is not guaranteed that leaves will be cleared away immediately. Citizens who wish to immediately dispose of their leaves may bag them in the purchased bags from the Utility Billing Office, Recreation Center, and Code Office.  Once bagged call into the yard waste line at 740-592-3343 and these bagged leaves will be cleared away with other yard waste on Tuesday and Friday every week.

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HR

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1. What if I am looking for a temporary or part-time job?

Persons interested in temporary or part-time employment with the City of Athens can inquire with the Human Resource director of the city, whose office is located on the first floor of the city building.
Human Resources
8 E. Washington St.
Athens, OH 45701

2. How do I apply for a city job?

All permanent city civil service jobs are filled from eligibility lists that are established by competitive examinations. The recruitment process is opened when a vacancy exists or is anticipated. Applications for examination are accepted only when there is a job opening. View current job openings.

3. How do I know when the city is accepting applications?

When a position is open it will be announced on the city’s employment website, the city’s Facebook page, in the Sunday edition of the "Athens Messenger", and the Monday edition of the "Athens News".

4. If I file an application, does this make me eligible for different examinations?

Applications become a part of the official record of each examination. You must submit a new application for each examination you wish to take. It is a good idea to make a copy of your application for your records. This will save time and effort if you wish to apply again.

5. Do I have to submit any other papers along with my application?

Many city jobs require a valid driver's license. You may need to submit a copy of this license. If the job announcement specifies education requirements, you must submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED certificate and possibly copies of your college transcripts and/or college degree. If special licenses are required, copies of these must also be submitted with your application. If claiming veteran's preference, you should submit a copy of Form DD-214. Occasionally, a supplemental application is also required and will be included with the other application materials.
When you are looking for a job it is always a good idea to have these documents available, since many employers require them.

6. How are the job specifications determined?

Job specifications are established by the Human Resource Director and the affected department based upon careful study of the requirements of the job. All city job specifications are approved by the City Service-Safety Director.

7. Are job requirements ever waived?

If an examination announcement does not produce enough qualified applicants, certain requirements may be waived. The revised requirements will be announced to the public. Job requirements may not be waived for individual applicants.

8. Who decides whether an applicant is accepted for an examination?

The Human Resource Director on behalf of the Civil Service Commission is the sole judge of the qualifications of applicants for admission to an examination. The Human Resource Director reviews all applications. Two or three weeks after the application deadline date, a notice is sent telling applicants whether their application has been accepted or rejected and why.

9. What is the best way to assure that my application will be accepted?

Applications should be filled out clearly and completely. Close attention should be paid to the job announcement. Describe related training and experience carefully. Your application is your means of communicating your qualifications.

10. What are some of the reasons for rejection of my application?

The most frequent reason for rejection is that the applicant lacks the required experience or education as designated on the job announcement. Sometimes a person has the experience but does not describe it clearly so that he or she can be given credit for it. Other reasons include: an incomplete application or giving false information, not accounting for gaps in a person's employment history, or not submitting the proper documentation.

11. If I have a police record, does that make me ineligible for employment with the City of Athens?

Not necessarily. The application requires that you report all convictions of any offense against the law. Police record checks are performed for all candidates. In determining whether an application should be rejected because of convictions, the Human Resource Director and Civil Service Commission will consider the nature of the offense, when it occurred, and similar factors. If you do not report a conviction and it is picked up on the police record check, your application may be rejected for falsification.

12. If my application is rejected, do I have any right of appeal?

If your application is rejected, you may appeal the action within the time specified on the written notice you receive. A letter of appeal should be addressed to the Civil Service Commission stating why you believe your application should be accepted. The commission will review your appeal. They may either approve your appeal or let the rejection stand. If they feel that more information is needed, they may grant a hearing.

13. If my application is rejected, does that mean that I can't apply for other civil service examinations?

Each application you submit for different examinations is considered separately. A previous rejection would not work against you unless it was for a serious or continuing cause.

14. What happens if my application is approved?

If your application is approved, you will receive a written notice, which will include specific information regarding the examination to be given. If you have a mental or physical impairment, which requires special accommodations for testing, it is your responsibility to notify the Human Resource Director on behalf of the Civil Service Commission in a reasonable amount of time before the test date. The Human Resource Director will then review such a request on its individual merit.

15. After I take the Civil Service Exam, am I eligible for federal, state, and county jobs?

The City's Civil Service exams are given for city jobs. Federal, state, and county governments are under separate personnel systems.

16. What types of exams are given?

All Civil Service Exams are related to the specific job. Most Civil Service Exams are written. There are three general types. If prior experience is required, a job content exam is often used. For example, if a job requires two years of experience in electrical work, questions about electricity would be on the exam. A few jobs require no experience because you receive training on the job. For this type of job, an aptitude test may be appropriate. An aptitude test measures your ability to learn a particular type of work. Another type of test used is the Training and Experience (T&E) Evaluation. This test provides a scored evaluation of your education and experience. Therefore, it is necessary that your application be filled out clearly and completely. Describe related training and experience carefully because that is how your score is determined.
For some specialized jobs, you would go before an oral examination board, made up of persons who are experts in that field. When appropriate, a performance test may be used. Police and Fire Department candidates also take a physical agility exam.

17. What happens after I take the examination?

After the final examination, the names of all who pass are placed on an eligibility list in the order of the score they received. Any vacancies in that type of job must be filled from that eligibility list. Ordinarily, an eligibility list remains active for one year, or until depleted (all names used), whichever occurs first. An eligibility list may be extended for one additional year if necessary and approved by the Athens Civil Service Commission.
For many of the city's jobs, tests are given on an as-needed basis. If your name is placed on an eligibility list, it is very important that you keep your address and phone number current with the Human Resource Director’s office. Failure to do so could result in you missing a job opportunity and your name may be removed from the eligibility list if you cannot be contacted.

18. So if I pass the exam, does that mean that I get a job?

If you pass a Civil Service Exam that does not necessarily mean that you will get a job. In general, there are many more people on the eligibility lists than there are job vacancies. Whether you are called for an interview depends upon several factors, primarily the number of vacancies and your position on the list. When there is a vacancy to fill, the Civil Service Commission will certify your name to the Human Resources Director in accordance with the city ordinances. You will then be contacted regarding an interview or the next step in the process.

19. If I am offered a city job, are there any other conditions that I must meet before I can begin work?

All candidates must pass a basic records check. Before appointment as a patrol officer or firefighter, a candidate must undergo an in-depth background investigation, a polygraph exam, psychological evaluation, and medical exam. Medical exams and drug screenings may be applicable to other City Civil Service positions as well.

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Income Tax

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1. Can I request a refund for the time I worked from home during COVID?

2021 COVID-19 (work from home) Refund Requests 

 

Per Ohio H.B.110: Beginning January 1, 2021, any non-resident individual working from home or any location other than their Athens City principal place of work may be eligible for a refund of 2021 Athens City tax withheld by their employer; this applies ONLY to tax year 2021.  Please note, in accordance with ORC 718.13, any refund issued by the City of Athens will be disclosed to your taxing jurisdiction of residency.

2020 COVID-19 (work from home) Refund Requests

On March 9, 2020, Governor DeWine signed Executive Order 2020-01D declaring a state of emergency in the state of Ohio in response to the COVID-19 global pandemic. In response, the Ohio Legislature passed, and Governor DeWine signed, House Bill 197 on March 27, 2020.  This legislation prohibits an employee from claiming a refund for 2020 based on days not worked at their place of business as a result of COVID-19.

Under Ohio House Bill 197, employers are required to remit local withholding tax to the employee’s ‘Principal Place of Business’ for employees who worked remotely because of the COVID-19 emergency, regardless of the location of their home. This would be for the duration of the health emergency, plus 30 days after the state of emergency is rescinded. Therefore, there is no refund eligibility when filing for an income tax refund for 2020 if you were working at home due COVID-19.

Update (December 1, 2021)
On November 30, 2021 the Tenth District Court of Appeals upheld the constitutionality of Sec. 29 of HB 197, the temporary municipal income tax withholding provision was a ruling on the appeal filed by the Buckeye Institute after the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas dismissed the Institute's lawsuit against the City of Columbus challenging the constitutionality of Sec. 29 of HB 197. The Buckeye Institute has indicated that they plan to appeal the Tenth District's decision to the Ohio Supreme Court.

2. Does the City of Athens assess an income tax?

Yes. Visit the Athens City Income Tax page.

3. What is the tax rate?

Current Tax Rates

• 1.95%, effective January 1, 2023
• 1.85%, effective January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2022
• 1.65%, effective January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2016

4. Are all sources of income taxable?

No. View a list of nontaxable sources of income.

5. If I live outside the Athens city limits, am I subject to the Athens city income tax?

Yes. If you work within the Athens City limits. Work consists of any business activity performed as an employee, self-employed contractor or subcontractor, and/or an owner of rental property. Compensation paid to non-resident sole individuals for services performed inside the City of Athens, on twenty or fewer days in a calendar year, is not taxable. This 20-day occasional entry provision does not apply to a professional entertainer, a professional athlete, a promoter of or an employee of, a professional entertainer or professional athlete, or to an individual who is an employee and his/her employer is located in another municipality, and the individual is not liable for tax to the other municipality.

6. Do I need to file a return if my business activity reported a loss for the year?

Yes. You must file a return on all business activity if you live, work, or
conduct business in Athens. Report self-employment activity and rental activity.

7. What deductions may I take?

There is no standard deduction. There are no exemptions. The tax is assessed at a flat rate. Business and rental losses deducted from W-2 wages are not permitted. However, business and rental losses may be used to offset business and rental profits on the same return, for residents only.

8. How does the Athens City Income Tax Return differ from the Federal Income Tax Return?

Effective January 1, 2004, the Medicare Wage Box amount on form W-2 is the amount subject to Athens City income tax.
• The tax is assessed at a flat rate.
• There is no standard deduction.
• There are no exemptions.

9. What should I include with my return?

• Signed tax return
• All required forms and schedules
• Social Security number or Federal Identification number
• Make any name and/or address change on return
• If this is the last time you are filing an Athens return, please indicate the reason
• Check for balance of tax due and your first quarter declaration payment.
• Make checks payable to: City of Athens Income Tax Department

10. How do I submit an extension request?

Extension are granted automatically when you file for a federal extension. A copy of your federal extension is required at the time of filing.  An extension to file the return is not an extension to pay any tax due at a later date. 

11. When is my income tax return due?

Fiscal year taxpayers must file an income tax return by the 15th day of the 4th month, following the fiscal year end. Calendar year taxpayers are required to file income tax returns by April 15.

12. Do I need to file an annual City of Athens income tax return?

You may need to file an annual return if you live, work, or conduct business activity inside the Athens city limits. Yes, if your employer did not withhold Athens city income tax for you, if you are self-employed and/or own rental property. See a list of nontaxable income if your source of income does not fall into one of these categories.

13. How can I find out if I need to pay and file Athens City Income tax?

http://www.ci.athens.oh.us/DocumentCenter/View/920

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Noise Ordinance FAQ

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1. What is the noise law in the City of Athens?

Section 13.04.10 of the Athens City Ordinance is the “noise ordinance” that is referred to in the City of Athens. The most commonly enforced sections are listed below

13.04.10 (B) No person, business establishment or organization shall recklessly make or cause to be made or continued, allow, or participate in the making or causing to be made or continued, any loud or unusual noise that disturbs the peace and quiet by means of any one or more of the following acts, which are hereby expressly prohibited:

(2) Radios and Other Devices. The using, operating or permitting to be played, used or operated of any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph or other machine or device for the producing or reproducing of sound in such manner as to disturb the peace, quiet and comfort of neighboring inhabitants or at any time with louder volume than is necessary for convenient hearing for the persons who are in the room, vehicle or chamber in which such machine or device is operated and who are voluntary listeners thereto. The operation of any such set, instrument, phonograph, machine or device between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 a.m. each day Sunday evening through Friday morning or between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Saturday and Sunday morning, in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet from the building, structure or vehicle in which it is located or exceeds 85 dB at any point outside the property plane shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.

(6) Vocal noise between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. each day Sunday evening through Friday morning or between the hours of 12:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M. Saturday and Sunday morning, the shouting, yelling, chanting or making use of the human voice or vocal chords in a louder than normal conversational tone or pitch, escalating vocal noise, other than in an emergency situation, in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet from the building, structure or vehicle in which it is located or exceeds 85 dB at any point outside of the property plane shall be prima facia evidence of a violation of this section.

(7) Those businesses with outside operations that have noise or sound between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. each day Sunday evening through Friday morning, or between the hours of 12:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M. Saturday and Sunday mornings in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet from the building, structure or vehicle in which it is located or exceeds 85 dB at any point outside of the property plane, or source of the noise or sound, shall be prima facia evidence of a violation of this section.

(D) A FIRST VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION SHALL BE AN ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENSE REQUIRING A FINE OF $100. ANY PERSON CITED WITH A FIRST OFFENSE OF THIS SECTION WHO DOES NOT PAY THE REQUIRED ADMINISTRATIVE FINE WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS SHALL RECEIVE A MINOR MISDEMEANOR CITATION INTO COURT, PROVIDING NOTICE AND AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD, WHICH SHALL SERVE AS AN APPEALS PROCESS. A SECOND OFFENSE WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF THE FIRST OFFENSE SHALL BE A MINOR MISDEMEANOR AND ANY OFFENDER WHO PERSISTS IN SUCH VIOLATION AFTER REASONABLE WARNING OR REQUEST TO DESIST BY A MEMBER OF THE ATHENS CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT SHALL BE GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR OF THE FOURTH DEGREE. ANY SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF THE SECOND OFFENSE SHALL BE PUNISHABLE AS A MISDEMEANOR OF THE FOURTH DEGREE. Full Ordinance

2. How is the noise ordinance enforced?

Essentially, any police officer who hears electronic noise or unusually loud voices from the edge of the property line or 50 feet or more from the source, during the per se time limits of the ordinance, has prima facie (face value) evidence that a violation of ACO 13.04.10B2 or B6 has occurred. The officer will stop at the house and attempt to get the house to come into compliance with the ordinance. Prior to the per se time limits, the noise ordinance is enforced based on complaint to the department.

3. Will I be cited for a violation of the noise ordinance?

Circumstances of each violation will dictate whether a resident is cited. For instance, if your residence has previously been warned for a noise violation, chances are high that you will receive a citation. If the noise violation, in the opinion of the officer, is egregious, chances are you will receive a citation, even if you have never been warned.

4. I have never been warned before, but I received a citation, I thought warnings were required?

Warnings are not required by law; however, if officers in the field find that a particular residence is cooperative with the officer’s requests to do away with the noise, the officer may opt to issue a one-time-only warning. For more egregious violations officers will more than likely issue a citation.

5. What constitutes an egregious violation of the noise ordinance?

Time of day is a big factor, noise that can be heard at 2am any day of the week is one example of an egregious noise violation. Volume is another factor. Noise that can be heard several houses away is another example of an egregious violation. We also consider any founded complaint of noise to be an egregious violation during the per se time limits.

6. What should I do if an officer appears at my house to enforce the noise ordinance?

Comply with the officers requests. If your house has never been warned, and the officer does not believe your violation is egregious, there is a good chance you may receive a warning, however; argumentative people stand less of a chance of receiving just a warning because their actions indicate they may not be cooperative in the future

7. Is the noise ordinance only in effect after 10pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends?

No, the noise ordinance is in effect 24 hours a day, only the way we enforce the ordinance changes with the 10pm, and midnight per se time frame. Prior to these hours, we enforce the ordinance on complaint, during the per se time limits, we enforce the ordinance on view.

8. What is the difference between an administrative violation, a minor misdemeanor violation, and a fourth degree misdemeanor?

An administrative violation is akin to a parking citation. This type of violation is not considered criminal in nature and only requires the payment of a $100 fine for the first violation. A minor misdemeanor is a citable only criminal offense punishable by a fine of up to $100 plus court costs. A fourth degree misdemeanor is an arrestable offense punishable by a fine of up to $250 plus court costs, and/or a jail sentence of up to 30 days.

9. I have already been issued an administrative citation for violation of the noise ordinance, what could happen if I am found to be in violation again?

You can be cited with a minor misdemeanor for a second offense and arrested for a fourth degree misdemeanor if you fail to comply with officers requests. For a third offense you can be arrested and charged with a fourth degree misdemeanor.

10. If I am a student, will Ohio University find out about my noise violation?

Since the first violation of the ordinance is now administrative, OU will not find out about the citation, however; our department shares arrest and criminal citation information with Ohio University Judiciaries. Any person cited or arrested for a second or third offense who is an OU student may face OU Judiciary action at the University’s discretion.

11. I have recently moved into a house that has been warned or cited in the last six months, can I be cited for noise?

Noise violations are not house specific, they are people specific, so you can be cited for a violation regardless of where it occurs.

12. What is the best way to avoid violating the noise ordinance?

Keep noise to a minimum and respect your neighbors. At the per se time limits of 10pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends, turn your stereo or other electronic noise device off or at least take it inside and close the doors and windows so it cannot be heard from outside your residence. Also, ask visitors to go inside to continue their conversations.

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Parking

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1. What is the 24hr parking rule?

No parking is to exceed 24 hours in the same location on any city street. You must move your vehicle to another location every 24 hours or it may be cited or towed. The city employs a full-time enforcement officer to address 24-hour parking. The 24-hour parking ordinance is enforced in order to allow all residents equal access to parking on city streets and to curb storage parking. If we did not enforce 24-hour parking, it would be possible for a resident of one street, say Franklin Avenue, to park their car on Elmwood Street in front of someone’s house and leave it for months at a time. Before the ordinance was enacted and enforced, we would receive numerous complaints that residents couldn’t park anywhere near their homes, that they had no place for visitors to park, and other similar complaints. Since enforcement of the 24-hour ordinance began, these complaints have subsided. Even though you can’t park in the same place for more than 24 hours, you should remember that no one else can either, and the chances of you finding a parking space near your residence is greatly increased by our enforcement of the ordinance.

2. Which areas are limited to two-hour parking?

The vast majority of parking meters have a two-hour limit, except for the parking meters above the first floor of the parking garage. The two-hour limit meters are clearly marked. After the two-hour limit, you must move your vehicle to a non-adjoining space. Having additional time on the meter after two hours has no bearing on this violation. In other words, you can still be cited for the two-hour limit even though the meter has not yet expired. Each two-hour period over the limit will result in an additional citation, so it is important when parking in a metered space that you move your vehicle every two hours.

3. May I park on the sidewalk?

Parking on or across a sidewalk is prohibited, even if you are parked in your own private driveway. Parking in the area between the sidewalk and the curb line is also prohibited. We enforce this ordinance because we don’t want our pedestrians to have to walk into the street to walk around vehicles that are blocking the sidewalk. It is of special concern when a parent pushing a baby stroller or a person in a wheelchair has to enter into the roadway to avoid a vehicle blocking the sidewalk. For this reason, we enforce this ordinance.

4. What does a yellow curb indicate?

Yellow curbs mean no stopping, standing, or parking. This includes areas near ATMs, Chubb Hall, Alden Library, etc. Yellow curbs are painted as such for a reason, mostly for safety concerns regarding traffic flow and visibility. When someone parks on a yellow curb, they are putting all other motorists and pedestrians at risk. Do not park on a yellow curb to run to an ATM machine. At the very least, you will be asked to move, and most of the time you will be cited. If you decide to park on a yellow curb to go to an ATM machine, you should probably go ahead and get some extra money to pay the parking ticket you will eventually receive once discovered.

5. Is it legal to block a private drive?

Parking spaces are scarce in the areas near campus. Do not block someone’s private drive. For all complaints we receive for a blocked private drive, we will cite and tow the vehicle. Usually we receive complaints from the resident stating they are blocked in and need to leave. This is why we tow the vehicle, to allow the resident to leave. Be considerate and make sure you aren’t making someone late because you have them blocked in.

6. What areas may have restricted parking?

Read and adhere to the language on all no parking and limited parking signs. If you find a parking space that is too good to be true, you might consider looking for signs that restrict parking. Common violations in this area include the theater zone on South Court Street, loading zones, areas marked with “No Parking Here to Corner” signs, the school zones on South Lancaster and North High Street, etc. Take the time when parking to look for signs in the area limiting or restricting parking.

7. What are the restrictions to parking downtown?

Parking is restricted between 4:00 am and 6:00 am on Court Street, South Congress, East and West Union, West State, and West Washington. This restriction is stated in numerous ways to include signs and stickers on each meter. Be sure to move your vehicle from these areas between 4:00 am and 6:00 am.

8. My vehicle has been towed from a private lot. Who do I contact?

Our department does not tow vehicles from private parking lots. Owners of the lots contract with towing companies to patrol their private lots and tow vehicles without permits or permission to park. If your vehicle is towed from a private lot, you must locate the posted sign in the lot to determine where your car has been towed. ORC 4513.60 regulates the requirements of the signage posted in all private lots. If you feel the signage is not in compliance with the legal requirements of ORC 4513.60, or if no sign exists, you can call the Athens Police Department to file a complaint of “Illegal Private Tow.” We would ask that you research the law online prior to filing a complaint.

9. How do I pay a parking ticket?

Pay your tickets promptly. By city ordinance, fines are substantially increased if a ticket is not paid within five straight days. Tickets may be paid as follows: At the Athens Police Department 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Online By calling (800) 984-5973 By placing the ticket and exact fine amount in the provided courtesy envelope and depositing it in the yellow courtesy boxes located on various meters throughout the metered parking area. Do not place your tickets in a US Postal Service mail box. If you have questions about parking in Athens, call our Parking Enforcement Division at (740) 592-3308.

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Shade Tree Commission

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1. What is the City right-of-way?

The City maintains a right-of-way, which is City property, to contain roadways, curbs, sidewalks, utilities, graded areas and shade trees. Typically, the right-of-way is 50-60 feet wide.  [21.05.07] Trees in the right-of-way are the property of the City. You can also check the Athens County Auditor website for the location of the City right-of-way or City-owned property. You may also contact the City of Athens Code Office for right-of-way information at 740.592.3306. 

 

Image credit: Forest Grove Oregon.

2. What do I do if I want to remove a tree or shrub from any public area of the City of Athens?

For non-emergency tree removal requests, complete a tree removal request form along with the reason the tree should be removed (safety concern, tree is diseased, vehicle site distance concern, etc.). The request will be reviewed by the City. 

3. What are the consequences if I remove any tree or shrub from any public area of the City of Athens without the permission from the City?

The person shall either replace the tree with one of similar type and size, as determined by the shade tree commission, or be required to plant at the site of the removal or elsewhere. In addition to the penalties provided by the city code, the City of Athens may institute appropriate civil proceedings to enforce compliance.  In addition, the person shall be deemed guilty of a minor misdemeanor and fined not more than $100.00 for each violation. 

4. Will the City pay to remove a tree or shrub?

Tree removal on private property is the responsibility of the property owner. Tree removal on public property may be completed at the City’s expense if approved by the City Service-Safety Director.

5. What do I do if I want to prune a tree or shrub on any public area of the City of Athens?

For non-emergency tree pruning requests, complete a tree pruning request form along with the reason the tree should be pruned (safety concern, damaging private property, vehicle site distance concern, etc.). The request will be reviewed by the City. 

6. What are the consequences if I prune any tree or shrub on any public area of the City of Athens without the permission from the City?

The person will be deemed guilty of a minor misdemeanor and fined not more than $100.00 for each violation.

7. Will the City pay to prune a tree or shrub?

Tree pruning on private property is the responsibility of the property owner. Tree pruning on public property may be completed at the City’s expense if approved by the City Service-Safety Director.

8. How do I determine if a tree is on any public area?

In most areas, the sidewalk and utility poles are in the public right-of-way. Trees in this area are typically also on City property. You can also check the Athens County Auditor website for the location of the City right-of-way or City-owned property. You may also contact the City of Athens Code Office for right-of-way information at 740.592.3306.

9. What do I do if a tree or tree limb falls on my property/house/car?

You should first contact your insurance company to let them know about the accident. The insurance company will be able to guide you through the process. 

10. Can I prune trees on my property (i.e., not on the City’s right-of-way)?

Yes, although there are recommended pruning techniques that will keep your trees safe and healthy. Contact the City of Athens Shade Tree Commission for recommendations on tree pruning.

11. What do I do if I want to plant a tree or shrub from any public area of the City of Athens?

To plant a tree or shrub, complete a tree planting request form. The request will be reviewed by the City.