City of Somerton

official City of Somerton & Somerton Chamber of Commerce Web site
FAQ Page

Welcome to our Interactive FAQs! Click on any question at the top of the page to jump down to that answer below. If you don't see the information you are looking for, you may suggest the addition of a new FAQ at the bottom of the page.

On this page you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions that the City of Somerton receives. Check back here often for new additional questions.


Community Planning FAQs
 
1. How can I find out the rules for what I can and can't do on my property?
Since each property owners' needs are unique, call the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and ask to speak to a Planner.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:26 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
2. What do I do if I want to file a neighborhood complaint re: junk cars, debris, or a zoning violation?
Anyone can file an anonymous complaint by calling the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and speaking with the Permit Technician. We will investigate the complaint and take the necessary action to bring the property into compliance. Complaints are always kept confidential.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:27 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
3. How do I apply for a variance?
An application for a variance needs to be filed with the Community Development Department. The request is then heard by the Board of Adjustment who will make the decision. For information regarding the variance process and fees, please call the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and speak with the Permit Technician.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:28 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
4. How do I find out what my property is zoned?
Call the Community Development Department at: (928) 722-7399 and speak with a Planner.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:29 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
5. How do I change the zoning of my property?
You will need to apply to rezone your property. The request will be heard by the Planning and Zoning Commission, who will make a recommendation to City Council for a final decision. Information regarding zone changes and fees, can be obtained from the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and speak with a Planner.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:37 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
6. How can I get a copy of the City of Somerton General Plan, Zoning Ordinance or Subdivision Ordinance?
Call the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and ask to speak with a Planner to obtain a copy. The General Plan is $35.00, the Zoning Ordinance is $25.00 and the Subdivision Ordinance is $15.00 (plus shipping and handling).
Somerton City/Chamber
2:24 PM - May. 18th, 2011

Building Safety FAQs
 
1. How long will it take to get a permit?
Review time for obtaining a permit varies greatly and depends upon the scope of the project. Some permits may be dealt with in one visit, while others may take longer due to additional review time or a re-submittal being needed.
Somerton City/Chamber
5:08 PM - Mar. 8th, 2007
 
2. What happens if I have a permit but haven't done any work yet?
Every permit issued expires after 180 days if the use or structure authorized by the permit is not established. An extension can be granted by the Building Inspector before the permit expires.
Somerton City/Chamber
5:10 PM - Mar. 8th, 2007
 
3. Do I really need a permit?
Yes! Property owners are required to obtain a building permit from the Building Inspector prior to initiating any improvements or repair on their property.
Somerton City/Chamber
5:11 PM - Mar. 8th, 2007
 
4. Are there any times when I don't need a permit?
Building permits are not required when the total material cost of the improvement or repair of an existing conforming structure does not exceed $1000.00 and such improvements or repairs do not involve any installation, movement, extension or limitation of any electric, plumbing or gas work. It is always recommended to have work completed by a licensed contractor for safety purposes.
Somerton City/Chamber
5:12 PM - Mar. 8th, 2007
 
5. How do I apply for a Building Permit?
Applications are taken at 150 W. Main St. Building permit submittals are accepted between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The Building Inspector or Permit Technician is available to the public to explain the application procedures.
Applications require information concerning the construction and project site to help determine a project's compliance with zoning and building codes. You will need the name, mailing address and telephone number of both owner and contractor; contractors Arizona's state registration number; a copy of the license showing expiration date; construction site parcel number; floor area of planned and existing buildings; and the existence of any applicable easement or other restrictions on the use of the property.
Building permit applications must be accompanied by plans and specifications drawn to scale and in sufficient detail to judge that the project will be constructed in accordance with the building codes and all relevant regulations.
The plans should clearly show what you intend to build, how it will be placed on your property, and how it will be constructed. All plans should be detailed enough to allow construction from the plans.
The following plans are required for submittal: plot plan, typical framing detail, floor plan, foundation plan and elevation (vertical view). Most plans are drawn by local builders, designers and homeowners. However, the Building Inspector may require plans, computations and specifications be prepared by a licensed engineer or architect. The package of plans must include:

Site Plan:
1. the distance from the property lines, the proposed structure and all existing buildings (setbacks) with special attention toward buildings within 10 feet (whether on applicant's lot or neighboring lot)
2. street names, road easements and easements of record
3. off-street parking
4. property lines and dimensions, including all interior lot lines
5. legal description
6. any accessory buildings
7. building lines and exterior dimensions
Somerton City/Chamber
11:25 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
6. How do I get an inspection?
Call the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 to schedule an inspection. Inspections are directed to the Building Inspector and require a 24 hour notice.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:32 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
7. How do I apply for a business license?
Visit the Community Development Department located at 150 W. Main St. to obtain an application.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:34 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
8. How much is a building permit and how is it calculated?
Building permit fees are calculated based on the valuation of the project. Please call the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and ask to speak to the Building Inspector or Permit Technician.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:38 AM - May. 18th, 2011
 
9. How do I get an electrical or gas clearance?
A permit is issued to do the electrical work. For commercial use, a licensed contractor must be retained. After the work is completed, the Building Inspector has to inspect the work to ensure it meets code. For more information, please call the Community Development Department at (928) 722-7399 and ask to speak to the Building Inspector or Permit Technician.
Somerton City/Chamber
11:39 AM - May. 18th, 2011

Map FAQs
 
1. How do I obtain a copy of the City of Somerton city map?
Contact the Assessors Office, 410 S. Maiden Lane Yuma AZ85364, (928) 373-6040.
Somerton City/Chamber
5:13 PM - Mar. 8th, 2007
 
2. How do I obtain an Assessor's parcel map?
Contact the Assessors Office, 410 S. Maiden Lane Yuma AZ85364, (928) 373-6040.
Somerton City/Chamber
5:15 PM - Mar. 8th, 2007
 
3. How do I find out the Assessor's parcel number for a property?
Contact the Assessors Office, 410 S. Maiden Lane Yuma AZ85364, (928) 373-6040.
Somerton City/Chamber
3:28 PM - Jul. 6th, 2007
 
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