Zoning Enforcement & Stop Work Orders
Zoning enforcement is the process Jefferson Township uses to ensure that construction, land use, and property improvements comply with the Township Zoning Resolution and approved plans. These rules exist to protect public safety, maintain neighborhood standards, and ensure fair and consistent development across the Township. Enforcement applies to residential, commercial, and agricultural properties.
Many zoning issues arise when work begins before Township approval is issued. Common examples include installing fences, sheds, pools, driveways, decks, pole barns, additions, or starting new construction without first obtaining zoning approval. Submitting applications to the County before contacting the Township, or assuming a contractor will handle zoning requirements, often leads to delays, violations, and additional costs.
A Stop Work Order is issued when work is occurring without proper zoning approval or when approved conditions are not being followed. When a Stop Work Order is issued, all work must stop immediately. Continuing work after a Stop Work Order is a violation and may result in additional penalties, fees, or legal action. A Stop Work Order remains in effect until the Township confirms that the issue has been resolved and authorizes work to resume.
If you receive a Notice of Violation or Stop Work Order, your first step should be to contact the Township Zoning Office. Township staff will explain why the enforcement action was issued and what is required to correct the issue. In many cases, compliance can be achieved by submitting the proper zoning application, correcting work already completed, or obtaining approval through the appropriate review body.
County permits cannot be issued without Township zoning approval. Starting with the County instead of the Township will delay your project and may result in enforcement action. All zoning approvals must be obtained from Jefferson Township before County building permits are issued and before work begins.
Resolving a zoning violation typically involves reviewing the issue with Township staff, submitting any required applications, correcting non-compliant work if necessary, and completing an inspection or verification. Once compliance is confirmed, the Township will provide written confirmation regarding the status of the project and whether work may continue.
Fees, penalties, or cost recovery may apply depending on the type of violation and how quickly it is resolved. These may include administrative fees, reinspection fees, civil penalties for continued or repeat violations, or recovery of legal and abatement costs. Township staff will explain what fees apply to each specific situation.
Certain zoning enforcement decisions may be appealed in accordance with Township procedures. Appeals must be filed within the required timeframe and may involve review by the Board of Zoning Appeals. Residents considering an appeal are strongly encouraged to contact the Zoning Office immediately to avoid missing deadlines.
To avoid enforcement issues, residents should always start by contacting Jefferson Township before beginning any project, purchasing materials, or hiring contractors. Speaking with Township staff early helps ensure the correct permits are obtained, approvals are issued in the proper order, and projects move forward without unnecessary delays.
For zoning questions, permit requirements, or enforcement matters, contact Karen Kayler, Zoning Coordinator, at 937-262-3591 ext. 107.
Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and both walk-ins and appointments are welcome.
