Click the tabs below to view answers to commonly asked questions.
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How large can I build a garage or shed on my property?
Community Development
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Garages, sheds, and similar structures are classified as accessory buildings and are regulated under Section 100.4.06 of the City Code. The size and placement of these buildings are determined by the size of your lot, the presence of any existing accessory buildings, and if there are any existing easements.
(1) Lots up to 8,700 sq. ft.
- Total area of accessory buildings is limited to 720 sq. ft.
- Must not exceed 30% of the rear yard.
Lots between 8,700 and 13,333 sq. ft.
- No single accessory building may exceed 720 sq. ft.
- Combined total for all accessory buildings may not exceed 800 sq. ft.
Lots between 13,333 sq. ft. and 1 acre
- Total area of all accessory buildings is limited to 1,000 sq. ft.
Lots larger than 1 acre
- Total area of all accessory buildings is limited to 2,000 sq. ft.
Additional Requirements:
- A 5-foot setback from all property lines is required.
- The maximum height of any accessory building is 18 feet, or the height of the principal structure, whichever is less.
For more information, click here to go to the Zoning section of our City Code.
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How do I find out what zoning classification my property falls under?
Community Development
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Online:
- Visit the Bremer County Assessor's website to view your property's zoning information.
- Visit the City of Waverly's website here to view the current map.
By Phone:
- Call the Zoning Office at 319-352-9208 for assistance.
In Person:
- A current zoning map is available for public viewing at City Hall: 200 1st Street NE, Waverly.
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How do I find Flood Plain information?
Community Development
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Contact FEMA at 1.877.336.2627 (1-877-FEMA MAP). This number may also be utilized to help answer common questions such as:
- How long does it take to get the map revised?
- How can I order a flood plain map?
- I was just told by my lender that my house is in a flood plain and I need flood insurance, what are my options?
- Was a LOMA ever issued for my property?
- Has the National Flood Insurance Program Flood Hazard map for my community been revised?
- Some additional web sites that may be useful include:
- www.floodsmart.gov
- http://msc.fema.gov/portal
One may also contact the Community Development and Zoning Office with additional questions or for updates on current flood-related projects or questions as it pertains to Waverly.
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Do I need a permit for a fence?
Community Development
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Fence Permit Process
Residents planning to install a fence must submit a fence permit application to the Zoning Office. The site plan on the application must include:
- The proposed location of the fence
- The height of the proposed fence
- Any known easements on the property (if unknown, the city can assist with locating)
Zoning staff will review the plan to ensure compliance with the City Code. There is no fee for this permit.
Fence Height Regulations (per City Code):
- Front yard: Maximum height of 3 feet
- Side and rear yards: Maximum height of 6 feet
- Corner lots: May have two front yards, subject to front yard height limits
Before installing, all applicants must contact Iowa One Call at 811 to have underground utilities located and marked.
For questions or more information, contact the Zoning Office at 319-352-9208 or email zoning@waverlyia.com.
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Can I have chickens on my residential property?
Community Development
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Yes - the City of Waverly does allow up to four (4) hens (no roosters) on residential properties.
Since February 2014, residents may apply for a three-year permit through the Zoning Office for residentially zoned properties.
To apply or learn more visit here.
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Do I need a permit for putting up a pool?
Community Development
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A pool that is 5,000 gallons or more than 24" deep needs a permit. If the pool is less than 5,000 gallons, you do not need a permit.
Pool building permits are received and reviewed by the Bremer County Building and Zoning Department. Visit their website here.
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Are burn permits required?
Community Development
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Open burning of yard waste is permitted in the City of Waverly following the submission of a burn permit application to the Community Development Office. Burning permits do not expire. A new permit is required if the lot size or ownership changes.
Please note:
The burning of yard waste (including grass clippings, leaves, tree limbs, etc.) is prohibited on properties that are 1/2 acre or smaller within city limits. The lot must be 1/2 acre or greater in order to be approved for a yard waste burn permit.
Additionally, burning of garbage or construction materials and the use of burn barrels are prohibited on all properties, regardless of size.
For more information, please contact the Zoning Office at 319-352-9208 or email zoning@waverlyia.com.