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Commission adopts update to Burke County building regulations to modernize inspections and enforcement
Summary
The Board adopted Ordinance 2026-01 to update Chapter 10 of the Burke County Code, adding modern inspection scheduling, limited remote inspection allowances, stronger conflict-of-interest rules for inspectors and civil penalties for noncompliance; the vote was 5-0.
Kenneth Green, chief building inspector, presented amendments to Chapter 10 (building and building regulations) to bring the code into compliance with updated state statutes and modern inspection practices. Key changes include required inspection scheduling, a 48-hour inspection requirement, limited allowances for live remote inspections in specific circumstances (Appendix G or engineered alternatives), raised thresholds for non-licensed contractor cosmetic work, explicit conflict-of-interest prohibitions for inspectors, and a civil-penalty enforcement pathway.
Green said the ordinance clarifies appeals procedures and brings enforcement decisions back to the Board of Commissioners rather than older ad-hoc boards. He explained that abandoned or unsafe structures would be subject to investigation and potential orders to demolish or secure properties; enforcement remains complaint-driven but staff will act when unsafe conditions are observed.
Commissioners asked whether enforcement would remain complaint-based for abandoned homes; staff confirmed complaint-response will drive many actions but that safety threats will be pursued proactively when observed. Commissioner Barry moved to adopt Ordinance 2026-01 "as presented." The motion passed 5-0.
