Recently you may have noticed an increase in Code Compliance efforts in the alleys in the business district. The maintenance of alleys, whether public or private, is the responsibility of the landlord and tenant business owners.

Alleys must be maintained in a clean and litter-free manner, together with any walkways, grass strips, or paved areas up to and including the median point of the alley. This includes the maintenance of any plants, grasses, shrubs, trees and overgrowth of weeds. All garbage must be enclosed in plastic bags prior to placement in garbage containers. Containers must be monitored to ensure the garbage remains inside, lids must be kept closed, and the surrounding areas kept clean.

Any and all cardboard boxes, and wooden or paper cartons must be broken down before placing in recycling bins

Most all construction related activity requires a permit from the Town Building Department. Alterations, remodeling, renovations, additions and other improvements, including any electrical, plumbing, mechanical (heating or air-conditioning) work requires a permit. Obtaining a building permit not only ensures that a record of the work performed is created and maintained at Town Hall, but allows the Town to inspect and confirm that any work done on your property is properly completed and done in compliance with applicable code.

The Florida Building Code, which governs, prohibits the use of unlicensed contractors. Allowing unlicensed contractors and non-permitted construction on your property may leave you exposed to unprofessional, non-compliant work and unsafe conditions, and may also result in penalties for the property owner, including double fees for permits and additional pre-permit inspection fees that will be borne by the property owner.

Let us help you in keeping your property in a safe and compliant manner. If you have any questions or are unsure if a permit is required do not hesitate to contact the Town Building Department at (305) 861-4863.

Town code allows for certain permanent window signs and the placement of temporary signs in the window and glass door areas of a storefront. However, the total area of these signs may not exceed 20% of the total window and glass door area. Permanent window signs must be approved by the Town Planning & Zoning staff.

For detailed sign code information, view the Code of Ordinances. Section 90 Article VI.

For additional information, call the Code Compliance Office at (305) 861-4863, ext. 230.

The Town completed a major overhaul of the Storm Drain System. It is imperative that we all pitch-in and keep the curbs and gutters clear so the storm drains are able operate efficiently. Please ensure that bags containing yard clippings, or palm fronds and tree trimmings are kept well away from the curb and gutters. Residents should only place these items on your property and ensure that all grass cuttings are placed in plastic bags and securely tied, and tree trimmings are bundled (no more than 4 foot length and weigh less than 40 pounds) before setting out for collection.

Commercial gardeners should promptly remove all bags and bundled clippings and trimmings from the town. Grass cuttings shall be completely removed and cleaned from all streets and gutters by broom sweeping only. The use of power blowers is absolutely prohibited.

Looking to hold a garage or yard sale at your home? They are permitted in Surfside, but residents need to follow a few guidelines prior to having a sale. A permit is required and may be obtained at Town Hall, at a moderate cost of $10.60. Permits are only granted once per every 12 calendar months and are good for one two-day sale between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Only “used” items belonging to the permanent resident of the home may offered for sale. The posting of signs, notices, placards or any other form of written notice or advertising on any utility pole, right-of-way, or other public property is strictly prohibited, and may result in a fine. For more information, see Sec. 62-1. of the Town Code, follow the link at www.municode.com.

If you plan on planting a hedge in your yard, you must ensure it is planted within your property lines. If the hedge is to be located in your front yard, or a side yard that faces a street, remember that most private property lines in the Town are set back at least five feet from the curb of the street, and in some instances maybe more. If you have a survey of your property, the location of the property line may easily be confirmed. Hedges should not be planted outside of your property line, or on the easement between your property line and the curb of the street. These easements should be maintained clear of any hedges as they serve to provide a buffer between your property and the street and are part of the public right-of-way. If you are unsure of where your property line lies, the Town will be able to assist you in identifying the minimum distance from the curb. For additional information please contact the Town Code Compliance Office at (305) 861-4863, ext. 233.

Do you use a gardener to maintain your property?
Gardeners are required to haul away all tree trimmings, yard clippings, trash and debris and properly and legally dispose of same if they tend to your yard.

Do you maintain your own yard?
Home owners who do their own yard maintenance are required to place all tree trimmings, yard clippings, trash and debris in: 1) trash bags to not exceed 50 pounds in weight; or 2) in bundles that are secured and do exceed four feet in length or exceed fifty pounds in weight; and 3) trash bags and bundles must be placed next to the curb on your private property.

• No non-bagged or non- tree trimmings, yard clippings, trash and debris will be removed by the Town.
• Placing bags, bundles, or non-bagged or non-bundled tree trimmings, yard clippings, trash on the street right-of-way would be in violation of own Code may subject the homeowner to civil citations and fines.

Trimming Trees Appropriately

Take pride in keeping your Surfside property’s appearance.  Creating a healthy tree canopy is not only instrumental in keeping a safe and beautiful environment but also beautifies your home and the Town. Sometimes, residents do not make this connection or realize all of the many benefits trees have, like providing shade that cover the roof of homes, that in turn, creates a cooler ambiance, up to 20 degrees less on the roof of homes and thus reducing the usage of the A/C. Trees play a critical role, assisting to alleviate  global warming and flooding.

While it is important to trim your trees, it should be done appropriately. When trimming is not properly executed, it may harm the trees health, stability and overall appearance. The benefits of appropriate trimming reduces the risk of branch and stem breakage, provides for better clearance for vehicles, homes and power lines, should improve the health and appearance of trees, enhance views and increase flowering.  Excessive over-trimming, also known as Topping or Hat-Racking.  A professional arborist should be consulted if you are inexperienced in this area, or if you have any doubts on how to proceed.

Here are some tips on how to properly trim:

1. Always make cuts on the outside of the branch collar to avoid increasing the risk of decay. Do not leave branch stubs, living or dead. Use sharp tools designated for trimming and always wear safety equipment.
2. Homeowners should never climb a tree to trim or to attempt to trim tree limbs near overhanging power lines.
3. Never remove more than 25% of a trees canopy in a single trimming.

Trim for strength by removing:

1. Co-dominant leaders to encourage the growth of one man single “central” leader.
2. Injured, diseased, rubbing and dead branches.

Trim for form by removing:

1. Excess lateral branches to produce a ladder at maturity
2. Water sprouts and root suckers.
3. Limbs that turn inward, cross or extend.

Trimming methods to avoid:

Topping, Hat Racking and Excessive Lifting

1. Topping or Hat Racking a tree causes excessive sprouting of weakly attached new branches, and increases wind resistance by creating denser branching patterns.
2. Excessive lifting creates a condition where trees become top-heavy.
3. Both of these methods of trimming increase the chance of wind damage in the long run and should be avoided.

Proper Tree Trimming

1. Regularly scheduled tree trimming will improve the trees health, growth, and will improve fruiting, flowering and overall appearance.
2. Take a look at the tree that is going to be trimmed. Try to imagine what you want it to look like when it becomes larger. Remember that tree limbs increase in diameter and length but will not move up with the trunk as the tree matures.
3. Trees should be trimmed for the first time between two to five years after it has been planted. Inspect for trimming needs every five to seven years afterwards. Bear in mind, younger trees require more trimming than older mature trees.