Clay County directly enforces property maintenance in unincorporated areas through code enforcement. Under RSMo 67.398 — which reaches Clay County because it contains part of Kansas City — junk, debris, derelict vehicles and overgrown lots can be declared public nuisances and abated.
This is where county authority is strongest. Clay County's Code Enforcement division handles building, zoning and nuisance complaints for the unincorporated area. Its abatement power flows from RSMo 67.398, which Clay County qualifies for as a first-class county containing part of Kansas City. The statute lets the county declare a lot a public nuisance for debris of any kind, rubbish and trash, parts of derelict cars or trucks, broken furniture, and overgrown vegetation seven inches or more in height. Owners get written notice describing each condition and at least ten days to abate. If they don't, the county can remove the condition and charge the cost to the property.
After written notice and at least ten days to comply, the county may abate the nuisance itself under RSMo 67.398 and charge the cleanup cost against the property. Fines apply per the county code.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Gladstone, MO
Gladstone's Code of Ordinances (Title IX, Chapter 1000) prohibits parking vehicles on the grass and requires that any vehicle or trailer be parked on an appr...
Clay County, MO
Clay County requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Clay County, MO
Clay County requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Clay County, MO
Clay County restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nui...
Clay County, MO
Clay County restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.
Clay County, MO
Clay County may require hosts to carry liability insurance for short-term rental properties. Minimum coverage amounts vary by jurisdiction.
See how Gladstone's property blight rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.