Do I need to obtain a Building Permit?
It depends on what and where you are building. If you are building within the special flood hazard area as determined by FEMA or if you are building within the vicinity of the Independence Municipal Airport you will have to obtain a building permit. Also, if you are constructing a wind turbine, tower over 60 feet tall, private sewage disposal system, or a well, you will need to obtain additional permits. To determine if you are in the regulated area surrounding the Independence Airport, view this map or contact the Planning & Zoning Office. To determine if you are in the Special Flood Hazard Area, search by your address on the Assessor's web site and turn on the floodplains layer to view the special flood hazard area. State of Iowa Electrical permits have been required since 2010. For Electrical permits and inspections call Jay Kress at (563) 451-3710 or Chuck Carpenter at (319) 415-4952. For more information, call the Planning and Zoning Department at (319) 334-2873.
Where do I inquire about zoning regulations and permits in Buchanan County?
The Planning & Zoning Department can be reached by emailing maeven@co.buchanan.ia.us, by calling (319) 334-2873, or by visiting the office which is located in the lower level of the Buchanan County Courthouse: 210 5th Ave NE, Suite I Independence, IA 50644.
Where can I find information on the Wind Turbine Ordinance in Buchanan County?
All ordinances for Buchanan County are located here. (http://www.buchanancountyiowa.org/departments/supervisors/county_ordinances.php)
The Wind Turbine Ordinance is Chapter 54.
What is the zoning of my property and where can I find this out?
You can either call the zoning office at (319) 334-2873 or by visiting the zoning office which is located in the lower level of the Buchanan County Courthouse 210 5th Avenue NE * Suite I Independence, Iowa 50644.
If I rezone my property will my property taxes increase?
If your definition of land use is changed when you rezone your property and improvements to existing and or new structures are added it is likely that your property taxes will increase. For details on property taxes, contact the Buchanan County Assessor's office at (319) 334-2706.
Where do I apply for a Business Permit and what is the annual fee?
Business permits can be applied for by visiting the office which is located in the lower level of the Buchanan County Courthouse 210 5th Avenue NE * Suite I Independence, Iowa 50644 or by visiting the forms section of the Planning and Zoning webpage to view and print an application. The current annual fee is $25 and the renewal is authorized by the Zoning Administration upon expiration. Any further questions please feel free to call (319) 334-2873.
Where do I apply for a Home Occupation Permit and what is the annual fee?
Home occupation permits can be applied for by visiting the office which is located in the lower level of the Buchanan County Courthouse 210 5th Ave NE * Suite I Independence, Iowa 50644 or by visiting the forms section of the Planning & Zoning website to view and print an application. The current annual fee is $25 and the renewal is authorized by the Zoning Administrator upon expiration. Any further questions please feel free to call (319) 334-2873.
Can I install a sign in my yard for my friend's business?
No, an off premise business sign needs to be located within the parcel in which the business resides or the sign area needs to be rezoned Commercial, Commercial-Manufacturing, or Industrial. Detailed regulations can be found in the Buchanan County Zoning Ordinance. A copy of the ordinance can be found by visiting the zoning office which is located in the lover level of the Buchanan County Courthouse 210 5th Avenue NE * Suite I Independence, Iowa 50644. More questions, please feel free to call (319) 334-2873,
Where can I obtain a 911 Map of Buchanan County?
Buchanan County maps are located in the Planning and Zoning Department which is located in the lower level of the Buchanan County Courthouse 210 5th Ave NE * Suite I Independence, Iowa 50644. Maps are FREE to Buchanan County residents.
I just built a new house, who gives me my address?
During the permitting process the zoning administrator will give you a 911 address in correlation to the location of your driveway, order you a sign and install it. Driveway permits are processed through the secondary roads department and you may contact them at (319) 334-6031.
How do I know if I live in the county or city and who can confirm this?
You can either call the Buchanan County Zoning office (319) 334-2873 or your local city hall. Share your existing address with either governing body and they can reference GIS aerial maps to assist you with your question.
Can I live inside a machine shed?
Yes, Buchanan County does not have regulations for exterior aesthetics of dwellings in which residents reside. It is becoming more common that accessory type structures are being used as living quarters as well. If the proposed structure is within a subdivision which possesses covenants and restrictions, it is recommended to consult an attorney to assure that the structure complies with the subdivision's regulations. Any further questions please feel free to call the Buchanan County Zoning Department at (319) 334-2873.
Where do I call to see if my house or property is in the floodplain?
You can either call the Buchanan County Planning & Zoning Office - (319) 334-2873 or your local city hall. Share your existing address with either governing body and they can reference aerial FEMA flood plain maps to assist you with your question. You can also visit: http://hazards.fema.gov to access or request flood plain maps at your convenience.
What is a LOMA?
LOMA is an acronym for LETTER OF MAP AMENDMENT. A LOMA is a document for a resident who resides within a floodplain and effected by the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program). A resident can apply for a LOMA to prove that his/her dwelling, lot or accessory structures are above the proposed BFE (Base Flood Elevation) on the FEMA Firm Panel Floodplain Maps within a certain area. If filed, a LOMA can help reduce your annual insurance premiums and/or mortgage rate. Please feel free to call the Buchanan County Zoning office with questions at (319) 334-2873.
Where can I get a LOMA Application?
Hard copies of LOMA applications can be received by visiting the Buchanan County Zoning Department or you can visit http://hazards.fema.gov for an electronic version of the application or call 1-877-366-2627 with further FEMA mapping questions.
Where can I get an elevation certificate?
An elevation certificate must be obtained from a certified engineer or surveyor. You can reference the white or yellow pages or call the Buchanan County Zoning office at (319) 334-2873 for a list of firms who work in the area. A list of companies who work in the Buchanan County Area.
Who regulates cattle and hog confinements?
An animal confinement unit with 500 or under animal units has little to no regulation. Confinement units with 500 or more animal units are regulated by the IDNR (Iowa Department of Natural Resources). The Buchanan County Board of Supervisors reviews and authorizes the cattle and hog confinement across the state and county. The regional IDNR office can be contacted by calling (563) 927-2640.
