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Lake County building department says fees are low, urges review as permits rise
Summary
Assistant Building Director Jennifer Stephens told commissioners Lake County has the lowest construction fees in the state, last increased in 2017; the department has issued 26 dwelling permits this year and warned that a proposed code enforcement officer would not likely pay for itself.
Assistant Building Director Jennifer Stephens updated the Lake County Board of Commissioners on the Building Department’s operations on July 16, saying the department enforces codes “to keep citizens safe,” performs inspections with in‑house staff for faster turnaround than contracted inspectors, and has issued 26 dwelling permits since the start of the year.
Stephens said Lake County currently charges the lowest construction fees in the state and that the last county-controlled fee increase occurred in 2017. She recommended the Board review the fee schedule to ensure enforcement and inspection work is financially sustainable.
Stephens also addressed community conversations about creating a code-enforcement officer position, saying enforcement expenses are not covered by current fees and fines and that the position “would not necessarily pay for itself.” Community member Matthew Louie later suggested allowing applicants to submit videos and photos to reduce in‑person inspections.
The Board did not vote on fee changes at the July 16 session; Stephens’ presentation and the public comment provide context for any future fee-schedule consideration.
