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Airport

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1. Will my taxes go up because of the new airport?

No, the airport project is funded by federal grants including over $1,000,000 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

2. Is the 28E agreement between the City of Pella and the City of Oskaloosa a legal agreement?

Yes, the agreement is still valid. The courts found that there was a section of the agreement discussing termination which contained invalid language; and allowed the county to exit the agreement. The remainders of the agreement, minus this section is still valid.

3. Why is the city annexing land owned by SCRAA?

The city is annexing this land to plan for airport zoning and to extend infrastructure to the area. The city considers this area a prime growth opportunity especially around the proposed northwest connector.

4. Is the city utilizing eminent domain?

No, the city is working with property owners to negotiate property sales that benefit all parties involved.

5. Will the airport stop the use of the surrounding farm land?

No, the land surrounding the airport will still be farmable. Only land used directly for active airport use will no longer be used. The current Oskaloosa Airport is also surrounded by farm land and is still farmable, this is the goal for the new regional airport as well. The SCRAA wants to preserve as much usable crop land as possible.

6. What is the benefit of this project?

Construction of a regional airport is expected to create jobs and bring more business activity to the surrounding communities. The airport itself will require jobs, as well as the industries that typically grow around airports. The investment will help the community in the long run through an added tax base and sales tax revenue.

7. What is the benefit for Mahaska County?

By constructing a new regional airport, the tax base will increase total revenue for the county government. A larger tax base revenue means the county can provide better services, such as maintaining roads. Costs are constantly rising for these services, and the local governments need to find additional funding sources to pay for these services.

8. Oskaloosa already has an airport, why build a new one?

According to the DOT, the existing airport is inadequate and cannot be modified to handle commercial aircraft. Additionally, adding a new airport will act as an anchor, in which new businesses will attract to and grow our community.

9. How do we know that we will benefit from a new aiport?

The DOT has studied the economic impacts of airports similar to that of this project. These studies show an increase in economic activity due to the addition of these airports.

10. Other cities have built airports and have not seen significant growth; how are we different?

Each community is different. There are many factors at play, such as location and policies. Based on DOT and FAA assessments, Oskaloosa has been recognized as an idea location for a regional airport. Additionally, there are multiple global business headquarters located in the Oskaloosa area, who would benefit from a regional airport.

11. How will the airport be utilized and who will use it?

The plan for this facility, is to serve the following:

• Airline Services
• Air Cargo
• Emergency, military or National Guard response
• Air Medic such as life flight
• Aerial application for agriculture
• Public Safety
• Grassroot aviation

Additionally, anyone can benefit and use this airport. Anyone with a private license or commercial aircraft may use the facility. Businesses can use it and the community can benefit from the services provided by businesses. Most importantly, it provides infrastructure to attract large scale corporations to locate in Mahaska County.  Businesses looking for sites to locate in will find the community attractive because the airport provides access to markets and easy form of transportation. 

12. How long has the regional airport concept been apart of the City's long-term plan for economic growth.

The regional airport has been in the plan for roughly 20 years. However the long term plan is just that, a long term plan.  It takes years of planning to correctly navigate a project of this size.

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Building and Zoning

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1. Do I need a permit for a fence?

Yes, you must get a permit to construct a fence. Review the regulations that apply to fences. Title 17, Chapter 17.26, Section 17.26.090

2. Can a fence go on the property line?

Yes, a fence may be constructed up to the property line. Review the regulations that apply to fences. Title 17, Chapter 17.26, Section 17.26.090

3. Can I do my own work on my home and do I need a permit?

Homeowners can do work on their own homestead dwelling. Permits and inspections are required and will be issued to the homestead property owner of record. Electrical work done by the owner is permitted up to the main service disconnect. Plumbing work done by an owner may not include connections to public sewers or supply mains.

4. Do I need a permit for a deck?

Any deck attached to a dwelling, or that serves the primary entrance, requires a permit. A detached deck requires a permit if it is more than thirty inches high or more than one hundred twenty square feet in area.

5. Do I need a permit for a shed or other accessory building?

A permit is required for sheds or other accessory buildings one hundred twenty (120) square feet or larger. The maximum height of accessory buildings is the greater of twenty (20) feet or the height of the principal structure.  All accessory buildings must be at least five (5) feet from the rear lot line, accessory buildings under fifteen (15) feet in height require five (5) feet from interior lot lines if located between the rear building line of the principal building and the rear property line. An additional one (1) foot setback is required for every two (2) feet above fifteen (15) feet in height, up to the minimum requirements of the zoning district. The accessory building must be located five (5) feet from other buildings on the lot. Accessory buildings may not be closer than twenty (20) feet from any street right-of-way. See Oskaloosa Municipal Code Section 17.05 for more site development regulations.  

Title 17. Chapter 17.24, Section 17.24.030 B.6

6. Do I need a permit to replace my roof?

No.  However, due to the weight of roofing materials and load capacity of framed structures, there should be no more than two (2) roofing layers applied to most structures.  There should also be an ice barrier applied under shingles or rolled roofing from the lowest roof edge to a point 24 inches  (36 inches if the slope is 8/12 or greater) inside the exterior wall line.  Please contact the building official with any questions.

7. Are frost depth footings required for a detached garage or other accessory building?

Frost depth footings are required for freestanding light-frame construction accessory buildings (detached garages) larger than 600 square feet, and for freestanding accessory structures other than light-frame construction larger than 400 square feet. The frost depth for the Oskaloosa area is forty-two inches to the bottom of the footing.

8. When do I need a building permit?

Any time you build a new building, enlarge an existing building, or make a change to an existing building that affects its structural characteristics.

9. Where should smoke and/or carbon monoxide detectors be located in my home?

A smoke detector should be located in each sleeping room. A smoke and carbon monoxide detector should be located immediately outside sleeping areas (e.g. hallway) and a smoke detector should be located on each level of a dwelling, including the basement. Detectors should be tested monthly and replaced every 10 years. Batteries should be replaced every year. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of 5 home fire deaths happen with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

10. Where should ground-fault electrical receptacles be located?

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements, garages and as exterior electrical outlets.

11. Is a permit required for a swimming pool?

A permit is required for all swimming pools, either above-ground or below-ground pools, which are capable of holding water 24 inches or deeper. A minimum 48-inch safety barrier is also required.  This is typically a fence, or in the case of an above-ground pool the sidewall may serve as the barrier.  Access limitations may apply.  Setback requirements are the same as for other accessory structures. Contact the Building Official at 641-673-7472 for help with specific requirements.

12. How can I find out if my property is in a flood zone?

Visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at https://msc.fema.gov/, enter your address, and click 'search'.  Map layers may take a few moments to load.  Flood hazard areas are typically noted as 'Zone A' and highlighted in a light-blue color.   Map revisions, amendments, and revalidations are also available at this link.  Contact local floodplain manager Shawn Christ at 641-673-9431 (ext 5029) or shawn.christ@oskaloosaiowa.org with questions or visit the Development Services Department at City Hall.

13. How do I find out how my property is zoned?

You may view and search the city's official interactive zoning map at https://www.oskaloosaiowa.org/330/Zoning-Map-interactive-GIS or contact the building inspector or department director at (641) 673-7472 to look up the zoning designation at a particular address. Only zoning information obtained from the City of Oskaloosa (not the county or any other source) should be utilized.

City of Oskaloosa Zoning Map

14. Who do I contact to tell me where my property lines are?

Property lines are determined by metal markers ("pins") placed underground at every corner, angle, intersection, or change of direction of the boundary line. Pins may include a plastic cap with surveyor identification information and are shown on the original and all subsequent survey plats of a property. The most accurate and reliable method to determine a property boundary is to hire a registered land surveyor to perform a boundary survey of your property. The surveyor is licensed to perform such work and can locate any existing pins and set any that are missing. The City of Oskaloosa does not locate private property lines nor resolve property line disputes. Property owners may attempt to locate existing property pins themselves to estimate the location of property lines. Please do not remove or disturb property pins. 

15. Are chickens allowed within city limits?

Yes, in some areas with a valid permit and certain restrictions. Effective September 2023, personal animal raising is allowed in the city with application and site plan approval. In residential districts, small animals and fowl are allowed when contained entirely within a rear yard and other limitations are met. For chickens, only females (hens) are allowed. Buildings must be at least 25 feet from any property line, and limited to a maximum of 1 bird or small animal per 2,000 square feet of lot area. In R-1, R-2, and R-3 zoning districts a site plan application must be submitted and approved by the Planning & Zoning Commission. In the AG district birds/animals are permitted with no restrictions. In all other districts, animals are not allowed. Please contact the zoning administrator with questions or to discuss submittal requirements.

16. Are horses allowed within city limits?

Yes, in some areas with a valid permit and certain restrictions. Effective September 2023, personal animal raising is allowed in the city with application and site plan approval. In the RR Rural Residential zoning district, any lot 2 acres and over may keep one horse or other equine/hoofed animal and its immature offspring. Such lot may have one additional animal per additional acre of lot area. No stable shall be located closer than 50 feet to any dwelling unit on the site or property line. In the AG district horses are permitted with no restrictions. In all other districts, horses are not allowed. Please contact the zoning administrator with questions or to discuss submittal requirements.

17. Are bees allowed within city limits?

Yes, apiaries and honeybees are allowed in some areas with a valid permit and specific restrictions. Effective September 2023, personal animal raising is allowed in the city with application and site plan approval. Bee colonies must be kept in hive structures with removable combs, with a minimum setback of 5 feet from any property line, 10 feet from a public sidewalk, and 25 feet from a principal building on an abutting lot. If located within 25 feet of a property line, a flyway barrier 6 feet in height must be established 10 feet beyond the colony in each direction. Hives must be secured and properly maintained, and a convenient water source available. Colony densities are limited by lot size. Unusually aggressive colonies must be requeened by the beekeeper. Swarms, colonies without hive structures, or abandoned hives must be destroyed or removed from the city.  See Oskaloosa Municipal Code Section 17.06.120(3)(c) for more information.

18. Can I have a home-based business?

Yes, with certain limitations.  Most home-based businesses and home occupations are permitted as an accessory use in residential units subject to certain conditions (see Sec. 17.22.090 OMC, linked here). Animal hospitals, beauty and barber shops with over one chair, retail sales, mortuaries, repair shops or service establishments, stables or kennels, welding, and vehicle body repair/rebuilding/dismantling businesses are prohibited.  Please contact zoning staff to discuss your plans.  A permit is not necessary unless construction work will occur on the home.

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Human Resources

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1. How do I find out what jobs are open with the City of Oskaloosa?

See the local newspaper, the local cable TV access channels and openings posted at City Hall in the main entrance, as well as clicking on this link: City of Oskaloosa Job Opportunities

2. How do I apply for a job with the City of Oskaloosa?

You may apply for job in person at City Hall, online under Job Opportunities or under How Do I?

3. If I submit a resume do I still need to complete the City of Oskaloosa employment application?

Yes. A City of Oskaloosa employment application is required for city employment. Applications are only accepted when there is a posted job vacancy. The job title of the position you are applying for must be filled in on the application form.

4. Will my application be kept on file?

Employment applications are current for 60 days. If you wish to apply for another position we ask that you complete an application for each new position.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a City department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Public Works

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1. How do I report a pothole.

The City's website allows for residents to report potholes using Request Tracker.

2. Who is responsible for replacement or repair of the sidewalk in front of my property?

The property owner is responsible for maintaining and repairing the broken or settled sidewalk in front of their property. City Ordinance - Title 12, Chapter 12.12

3. What happens if I don’t repair my sidewalk?

City will issue notices to those who have not completed their sidewalk repair independently. The City will then hire contractors on a case-by-case basis to repair the sidewalks. Once the repair has been completed, the homeowner has certain days to pay the bill and/or be assessed for the cost of the repair.

4. Why do we have a stormwater utility fee?

The City of Oskaloosa created a stormwater utility fee in September 2007. The utility fee raises the revenues needed to fund the stormwater and surface drainage system. This program brings us into compliance with federal regulations and safeguards our community through improved drainage and protection of local waters.
A stormwater utility fee charges properties in City of Oskaloosa based on that property's contribution to the need for stormwater management. The utility uses the amount of impervious surface on a property as the primary basis for the fee. Review the regulations that apply to stormwater utility fee. Title 8, Chapter 8.28

5. How can I determine the location of the right-of-way on a given roadway?

Our office has a listing of the right-of-ways for each street within the City of Oskaloosa. However, for your particular address, a survey or recorded deed documents would be the most accurate.

6. What is sealcoating?

This is a process of spreading liquid asphalt and chip rock on the paved roads. It is a relatively low cost method of preserving existing low-volume pavements. This “seal” prevents water from freezing in the cracks and breaking up the pavement. A sealcoat offers the best protection for the least amount of money, and makes a road last longer.
The peastone or chip rock that we use for cover material sticks to the emulsion and, after rolling and sweeping, provides a slightly roughened skid resistant surface to improve safety. Although sealcoating can preserve and extend the life of the pavement, it is only a surface treatment and does not fill any existing bumps, holes, or irregularities and thus does not improve the ride quality.

7. When will the loose rock be swept up after sealcoating?

To ensure that the rock is securely embedded in the liquid asphalt and the liquid asphalt has time to properly harden, two weeks later, the street sweeper will begin picking up the loose rock and will continue sweeping until all of the loose rock is removed

8. How does the City prioritize the snow removal effort during a storm?

During a snowstorm Street Maintenance crews are mobilized. The City's first priority is to plow and de-ice all major streets leading to emergency entrances and exits such as hospitals and police and fire stations. Providing all arterial streets are plowed and de-iced, efforts are then focused on feeder streets.

9. Why do city trucks push snow back into my driveway after I cleaned it out?

Throughout the winter months, our crews will be out clearing the roads during and after snowfalls. At the same time residents are clearing their driveways. Many times while this is going on, a snowplow truck will go by and fill in the end of a freshly-cleared driveway with snow from the road, causing frustration and more clearing for residents. Please understand that the City’s first priority is the safety of the traveling public and clearing the roads of snow and ice and pushing it off of the road and shoulders, and sometimes into driveways, is a necessary wintertime evil. Residents sometimes call and ask why we cannot pick up the blade when going by their driveway. This is not a practical solution and our drivers would never finish clearing the roads due to the multitude of driveways. There is, however, a method of clearing your driveway that can help minimize the amount of snow (and frustration) during the winter months:
1. If possible (not always practical), clear your driveway after we have finished plowing the roads.
2. When clearing your driveway, place as much snow as possible in the direction of travel, on the downstream side of the road.
3. Clear an area upstream from your driveway opening to form a pocket for the snow from the road to go into. The result? More of the snow from the road will go into the pocket and less will wind up in the end of your driveway.

10. Whose responsibility is it to trim trees?

In most cases, trees interfering with vehicle visibility must be trimmed by the property owner. All trees must be maintained to provide 8 feet of clearance above sidewalks and 15 feet above roadways. Title 12, Chapter 12.40, Section 12.40.080

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Vacant Buildings Program

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1. Why did the city adopt the vacant buildings code?

To ensure a safe and desirable community.  Feedback from recent outreach efforts and surveys indicated repeat concerns with empty, underutilized buildings and buildings in poor condition.  Studies also indicate a strong need for more housing.  Oskaloosa’s comprehensive plan includes a vision to improve quality of life, with goals for quality neighborhoods and a range of housing types, encouraging reinvestment and enhancement, conservation rather than demolition, and improving safety.  One of the adopted action steps is to create a vacant building registry with inspection procedures.  This will help the city ensure buildings are safe, secure, and maintained with no code violations or illicit activity. 

2. Do I need to register my building?

Only buildings which are or become vacant, partially vacant, or unoccupied must register for this program. 

3. How much does this cost?

The registration fee is $100 per building per year.  This is the estimated annual cost for administration and inspection. If there is more than one vacant building on a single property this fee will cover all buildings at the same property address.

4. What is considered a “vacant building”?

In summary, any building which is unoccupied, or if no person resides in the building or operates a lawful business open regularly for business.  A building will also be considered vacant if it is unsecured, declared unfit for occupancy, a dangerous or dilapidated building, subject to health or safety violations, or lacks one or more utilities for 180 consecutive days.  Storage of items or property does not constitute occupancy unless authorized by the Oskaloosa zoning ordinance.  Please refer to chapter 15.34 of the Oskaloosa Municipal Code for a full description. 

5. What is considered “unoccupied”?

In summary, a building which lacks physical presence for 180 consecutive days for the purpose for which it was erected or a building unfit for occupancy due to failure to meet minimum standards.  Storage of items or property does not constitute occupancy unless authorized by the Oskaloosa zoning ordinance.  Please refer to chapter 15.34 of the Oskaloosa Municipal Code for a full description. 

6. What do I need to provide with registration?

Owners will provide property information, contact information, a descriptive plan for the property, status of utilities, proof of insurance, an option to release information to potential buyers or developers, and acknowledgements of applicable code standards.  Registration information will be valid for one year. 

7. What is the deadline to register my building?

The first registration for vacant buildings must be complete on or before November 17, 2023 and is valid for one (1) year.  If the building remains vacant, it must be re-registered every year before the previous registration expires.  If a vacant building changes ownership, it must be registered by the new owner within ninety (90) days.  If an occupied building becomes vacant, the building must be registered within ninety (90) days.

8. What if I have more than one building on my property?

One registration form and $100 fee will cover any vacant buildings on a single property using one shared address for all buildings.  If there is more than one property/lot/parcel, or more than one address for the buildings, each property address must be registered separately and fee paid separately.

9. Must I register if my building is partially vacant?

Yes, if your building has one or more stories or tenant units vacant it must be registered. 

10. If I use my building for storage, do I need to register it?

In some circumstances yes.   A building used for storage does not constitute occupancy unless the storage was lawfully established and authorized by the Oskaloosa zoning ordinance.  Storage as a primary land use must meet applicable zoning standards.  The property’s actual use and zoning designation will be considered and determined by the zoning administrator.  The following are examples of storage uses which are likely authorized and not required to register:

• Warehousing in an industrial district.
• Personal/convenience storage in an industrial district or with a conditional use permit in a commercial zoning district.
• A mixed use commercial building with supplementary business storage in a commercial or industrial district.
• Legal nonconforming (grandfathered) land uses as determined by the zoning administrator.

The following are examples of storage which are likely unauthorized and required to register. These may also undergo a zoning compliance review by the zoning administrator.

• Use of a home or structure for storage in any residential district, except for accessory residential garages or storage sheds with an occupied primary structure.
• Use of buildings for storage or warehousing in the downtown historic district, and most commercial districts, except for accessory structures with an occupied primary structure.

11. Do I need to register my vacant lot?

No.  Vacant lots are not required to be registered with the city. 

12. Are there any exemptions?

Yes.  The following situations are exempt from the registration requirement: 

1. - A building actively under construction or renovation with a valid permit. 

2. - A property actively listed for sale or lease which meets certain conditions at OMC Sec. 15.34.070B. 

3. - A residential property where the owner resides elsewhere for less than six (6) months per calendar year. 

13. How long is my registration valid?

A paid registration is valid for one (1) year.  If the building remains vacant, it must be re-registered every year before the previous registration expires.  If a vacant building changes ownership, it must be registered by the new owner within ninety (90) days.  If an occupied building becomes vacant, the building must be registered within ninety (90) days.

14. Can I get a refund if my vacant building later becomes occupied or is sold?

No, there will be no refunds or partial refunds issued.  Registrations will simply expire with no need to renew.  If a vacant building changes ownership, it must be registered by the new owner within ninety (90) days.

15. What is the penalty for not registering my building?

Failure to register a vacant building or suspected vacant building may result in the city issuing a Notice of Violation charging an unregistered property fee of $50 per day up to $500 per property.  Failure to comply within the specified time frame may also result in legal remedies including municipal infraction, civil suit for abatement of nuisance, or proceedings to acquire title under Iowa Code Section 657A.10B.  

16. What are the standards for vacant building inspections?

In general, buildings must be structurally sound, weathertight and secure, maintained and in good repair, with no openings or missing materials.  The premises must be free of trash or debris, public walkways free of snow or ice, and no excessive vegetation or other public nuisances as defined by the Oskaloosa Municipal Code.  A checklist for vacant buildings is available at https://www.oskaloosaiowa.org/619/Vacant-Buildings.  Please refer to chapter 15.34 of the Oskaloosa Municipal Code for a full description. 

17. Am I required to occupy my vacant building?

No. You are required only to register your building annually and ensure it continues to meet minimum applicable standards. 

18. I received a letter from the city but my building is not vacant. What do I do?

Contact the Development Services Department at 641-673-7472 to discuss your circumstances and how your building is utilized.  Staff will determine if registration is or is not required by ordinance.  An owner may be asked to sign an affidavit to document the situation. 

19. Can I file an appeal?

Yes.  Any owner has the right to appeal a Notice of Violation from a city official to The Building Code Board of Appeals.  Appeals are filed in writing.  See Oskaloosa Municipal Code sections 15.34.090 and 15.04.150, or contact the Development Services Department for more information.