Owner says confusion over condemnation and permit steps delayed repairs on Abilene home

Jeremy Ford told the Abilene Board of Adjustments he attempted to comply after the board’s earlier approval but encountered confusion about what work he could perform while the property’s condemnation status and permit requirements were unresolved.

"I was painting one day on the outside of the house, and they said you can't paint," Ford said, describing mixed messages from staff and code enforcement and saying the timeline and instructions left him unsure what actions were permitted. He told the board he has been in contact with the code enforcement officer and has begun gathering contractor estimates.

City staff explained the condemnation and zoning processes are separate: condemnation designates a structure as unfit for human habitation until required repairs and permits are completed, while a zoning special exception affects allowable uses. Staff said the steps to remove condemnation typically require submission of a main building permit and supporting cost estimates (electrical, water, HVAC, architectural) before the building can be deemed habitable.

Board members asked whether, if the special exception were reinstated, Ford understood how to proceed with code enforcement and the permitting schedule. Ford said he has a clearer plan and expects to have the required materials for the next condemnation meeting in roughly three weeks. The board’s approval of the special exception does not itself remove condemnation; it enables the applicant to apply for permits consistent with zoning and code enforcement requirements.