Code Enforcement Division

The Cortez Building Department oversees dilapidated and unsafe buildings and premises. These conditions are typically referred to as being ‘blighted’.

The City of Cortez utilizes the International Property Maintenance Code as its primary ordinance used to combat blight. Common blight issues include:

• Vacant unsecured structures
• Dilapidated buildings
• Abandoned vehicles and appliances
• Overflowing sewers
• Lots filled with overgrown weeds, junk, trash

Habitable but unsafe buildings are also a problem. Structures can become deteriorated, unsafe, and unsanitary. All structures must be kept in a clean, safe, sanitary condition. Typical problems include:

• Inoperable plumbing, mechanical, or electrical equipment
• Missing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Broken windows and doors
• Walls or floors with holes, damage, etc. that will allow vermin to enter
• Dilapidated decks and stairs

Who is responsible for the upkeep? Both the tenant and the property owner have a responsibility to keep the property in good condition. Generally, the building condition itself is the owner’s responsibility, and the overall cleanliness of the property both interior and exterior is up to the tenant. Violators who refuse to bring their property into compliance can face penalties including fines and at worst, jail.

View To learn more about "Blight" and its negative effects.

For more information about property maintenance issues, please call the Building Department at 970-565-3402