Des Moines requires driveways to meet city standards for width, surface material, and access. Vehicles must be parked on approved hard surfaces, not on lawns. Driveway approaches require permits.
Des Moines requires that vehicle parking on residential property be on approved hard surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, or pavers — not on grass or dirt. Driveway approach construction or modification requires a permit from the city's Engineering Department. Driveways must meet minimum width requirements and maintain proper drainage. Vehicles parked on front lawns or unpaved areas constitute a zoning violation. The city's property maintenance code requires that all off-street parking areas be properly surfaced and maintained. Driveway access must not obstruct sidewalks or public right-of-way.
Zoning or property maintenance violations: municipal infraction with fines. Unpermitted driveway work may require removal and reconstruction.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Chapter 60 (Housing) requires reasonable property maintenance and could ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Chapter 48 (Noise) standards could theoretically apply to overnight blow...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed primarily by HOA and cond...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines requires building permits for permanent outdoor kitchen installations with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs under Chapt...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no smoker-specific ordinance. Open burning is regulated under Chapter 70 (Fire Prevention) and Iowa Code 100B with cooking-fire exemptions. Io...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Fire Code under Chapter 26, Article XII adopts the International Fire Code (IFC). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas tank...
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