How You Can Help
 |
| Sensitive
to your concerns and needs!!!! |
| We would like to take this opportunity to make you
aware of some of the many issues the New Bedford Building Department encounters
on a daily basis, and how you can help. Being a courteous neighbor, mindful of
others and their property, creates the neighborhoods and quality of life we all
strive for. |
| We respond to approximately 2500 complaints and
various issues on an annual basis. |
| Primarily, complaints include abandoned and wrecked
vehicles, swimming pools, animals, and fences. Some of these problems and
concerns could be alleviated by simply being informed of the City of New
Bedford Building Department practices and principles. |
| How you can
help... |
| 1)
Local zoning prohibits the storage of a wrecked or partially dismantled vehicle
on your property. You must remove such vehicles from your property as they are
a safety concern for children and adults alike. You are allowed to keep one
unregistered vehicle on your property. A well-kept appearance helps to maintain
real estate values of your home and homes around you. |
| 2)
Home owners who consider installing a pool in their yards should be made aware
that there are responsibilities that accompany this project. A Building Permit
must be issued and all setback requirements must be met. A four foot fence
around the pool or yard, a self closing gate and latch must be in place for the
obvious safety of all concerned. |
| 3)
Once a decision has been made to build a shed on your property, please come in
for your Building Permit before the shed is built. Local Zoning has
required setbacks for all accessory buildings and avoiding problems that may
arise in the placement of your shed is of utmost importance. Once again, being
a considerate neighbor pays big dividends and creates harmony rather than
discord. |
| 4)
Your precious and beloved pet may render you many hours of pleasure and joy,
but inconsiderate behavior on the part of the pet owner may contribute to
annoying one or more of your neighbors on a daily basis. Please be cognizant of
the fact that the Building Department has setback requirements for all animal
shelters, kennels and dog runs. |
| In
conjunction with the City Clerks Office issuing dog licenses, and the City's
Health Department ensuring the cleanliness of the area, the City of New Bedford
has ordinances in place to insure the quality of life for you and your
neighbors. Owning a pet is a responsibility requiring great devotion and
commitment. Please be considerate of others in this regard. |
| 5)
Although the Building Department does not currently issue permits for the
installation of fences, there are rules and regulations regarding fencing. We
recommend that before installing a fence, you know where your property line is.
If you need help in this matter, you must call a professional to survey your
land. This will ensure you are not encroaching on your neighbor's property and
will save you needless aggravation and money. Again, be considerate of your
neighbor. A poorly planned, or to high a fence may obscure the field of vision
of both you and your neighbor while exiting a driveway, or may cause poor
lighting or ventilation if placed too close to a neighboring window. Remember,
good fences make good neighbors. |
133 William St - Rm. 308 - New Bedford, MA 02740 - Tel: 508-979-1540 - Fax: 508-961-3143
