Intent.
The intent of this section is to enable a property owner to rent out one room in their dwelling unit to a single boarder in addition to rooms occupied by a single family. Compliance with this section is required prior to renting a room.

Application.
To request permission for one boarder, the property owner shall submit the following information:

1. A written description of the request that includes the property address, property owner's name, address, and phone number.
2. A dimensioned site plan, delineating areas designated for off-street parking, with one parking space designated for the boarder.
3. A dimensioned building floor plan of the dwelling unit, delineating a minimum of 200 square feet of area that will be dedicated for use by the boarder.
4. A written summary of any physical changes that will be made to the building to accommodate the boarder. Physical changes resulting in additional dwelling units shall be prohibited.

Approval criteria.

1. The Zoning Administrator shall review the request and ensure that the property conforms in all respects to zoning, housing, building, plumbing, heating, and electrical codes, including historic district regulations if applicable, and any other codes or regulations of the City applicable to the construction or rental of residential dwelling units. The property shall be registered and inspected as required by Chapter 14: Housing of the Code of Ordinances.
2. Habitable floor area.
The floor area of the dwelling, exclusive of unfinished basement or attic space, shall have a minimum of 200 square feet of habitable area dedicated exclusively for use by the boarder. Areas dedicated to the boarder shall have interior access to common areas, including living and kitchen areas.
3. Utilities shall not be separately metered for each sleeping room.
4. Allowing a boarder shall not increase the number of dwelling units.
5. Boarders shall not be allowed in the Hope Neighborhood Overlay District. See Sec. 39-2.21: Hope Neighborhood Overlay District.

Approval time frame.
Within five business days of receiving a written request, the Zoning Administrator shall review the approval criteria and provide a written notification to the property owner either approving or denying the request and shall provide the reasons if denied.

Penalty.
Violations of this section shall be administered as provided in § 14-4.34(a) and § 14-4.38: Penalties of the City's Code of Ordinances.

See Rental Certification and Licensing Guide for more detailed information.