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Building Department

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1. Where is the Building Permit Center located?

We are located in the North City Hall Complex, 5160 Maple Drive, our office is on the lower level, with an entry door around to the back of the building on the northeast corner. Parking is also available in the rear of the building. You may also enter at the main doors on the south.

2. What are the Building Permit Center hours of operation?

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 pm.

3. When do I need a permit?

A permit is required for all new construction (commercial and residential), remodels, additions, basement finishes, garages, all sheds, decks, fences, pools, signs, sidewalks and approaches, and all electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work.

4. How do I obtain a permit?

Our building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are available at the office, fillable PDF online or we can mail some out to you. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, or call (515) 309-9461. Our office is located at:
5160 Maple Dr.
Suite A
Pleasant Hill, IA 50327

Permits and any required supportive documents can be submitted in-person or via email to the Community Development Clerk.

5. Who can apply for permits?

All Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing permits must be applied for by a State Licensed Contractor and provide a copy of their license to The City of Pleasant Hill. All other permits can be applied for by the general contractor or homeowner.

6. What does a permit cost?

All new construction, additions, basement finishes, garages, decks and sheds are based on square footage and are figured by the Building Official using the valuation and the Building Permit Fee Table. A fence permit is $20.00, sidewalk $15.00, approach $20.00. The Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing fee schedule is available on-line and by request at 515-309-9461.

7. When do I pay for a permit?

A permit is paid for at the time that it is approved and issued.

8. What kind of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check or credit card. We can process credit cards over the phone.

9. What do I need to do to file for Tax Abatement?

All Tax Abatement Applications are received and processed with the Building Permit Application. The abatement stays with the property, therefore new owners do not need to do anything to receive the abatement.

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City Clerk / Finance Director

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1. How do I initiate Yard Waste collection?

YARD WORK DOESN’T HAVE TO BE HARD WORK  

Before we know it, spring will have officially started, and with spring comes plenty of yard work! Luckily, curbside yard waste collection for twigs and branches, weeds, and lawn clippings begins soon.

There are a variety of ways to easily get your yard waste collected curbside.

Option 1: bags and stickers

Yard waste can be placed in Compost it! bags or store-brand bags with a green Compost It! sticker attached. Bags and stickers are sold at many local grocery, home improvement, and convenience stores.

Option 2: cart service

If you are setting out several Compost It! bags each week, you might find a Compost It! cart to be a better option. The 96-gallon cart can hold equivalent to three yard waste bags.

The Compost It! cart is run as a subscription service. If you’re a new customer, you pay a one-time fee for the cart itself plus the annual sticker. Once you have a Compost It! cart, you just pay to renew your sticker each year.

To request a cart or renew your sticker, visit www.WhereItShouldGo.com/CompostCart.

New carts with the sticker are delivered within 10 business days, and renewed stickers are mailed by early March so you can replace it on the lid of your existing cart before yard waste season officially begins!

Yard waste season begins the first Wednesday in April

Curbside yard waste collection resumes the first Wednesday in April. For collection, you should place yard waste at the curb with stickers, or in bags or carts, on your regular collection day. Make sure you have it out before 6 AM, as some haulers get started before the sun rises!

Learn more about the Compost It! program and what’s accepted by visiting www.WhereItShouldGo.com/YardWaste, or call 515.244.0021.

2. How Do I Start New Water Service?

The City of Pleasant Hill contracts with the Des Moines Water Works for water & sewer service. The Des Moines Water Works also collects fees for garbage and recycling pick-up. You may either call (515) 283-8700 or go to the following link to initiate service: Des Moines Water Works - Start New Service

3. How Do I Start New Garbage/Recycling Collection?

To initiate garbage/recycling service, please call Des Moines Water Works at (515) 283-8700. The City of Pleasant Hill contracts with the Metro Waste Authority (MWA) for garbage/recycling collection. Payment for regular garbage and recycling collection is sent via the monthly water bill from Des Moines Water Works. For more information and/or other garbage/recycling related questions, please click the following link:

Metro Waste Authority

4. When is the citywide cleanup?

The citywide cleanup is held in April of each year. It consists of the curbside pickup of solid waste. Scrap tire drop-off is provided in the west parking lot of the library.

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City Manager

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1. Who does the city manager report to?

The city manager is hired by and works for the City Council, and works in close contact with the mayor.

2. Who reports to the city manager?

All city departments report to the city manager with the exception of the library director, who reports to the Library Board.

3. Does the city manager replace the mayor?

No, the role of the mayor and the role of the city manager are different. The mayor is the chief elected official of the city and oversees City Council meetings and provides direction and guidance for policy decisions of the city. The mayor’s position is not full time.

The city manager is a full-time employee of the city, responsible for the daily operations of the city for providing the mayor and City Council with information they need to make decisions for the city.

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Fire / EMS

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1. Does the department work with other departments?

Yes, the City of Pleasant Hill has mutual aid agreements with all the surrounding communities that allow Pleasant Hill to assist those communities when needed and for those communities to provide assistance to Pleasant Hill when needed.

2. What equipment does the department have?

The Pleasant Hill department is fortunate to have a well equipped department, which includes two ambulances (one purchased in 2011), a 105-foot aerial fire truck, a pumper / tanker, an attack / grass fire truck, a rescue vehicle, and a rescue boat.

3. What is the city’s ISO rating?

The City of Pleasant Hill has an ISO rating of 4, which is an excellent rating. This rating allows for reduced insurance premiums for residents and businesses.

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Library

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1. Can anyone get a library card?

There is no age limit. Children are welcome to get cards, as well as Pleasant Hill residents, rural Polk County residents, and those living in other communities.

2. How is the library funded?

Funds are provided by the City of Pleasant Hill, Polk County, and State of Iowa.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. Are watercrafts permitted on Copper Creek Lake?

Yes, non-motorized, non-inflatable watercrafts are allowed (kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, etc.). Gas-powered motor boats are not allowed within a city-owned park. Watercrafts must be carried in and used according to the boating laws of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

View the Iowa DNR Boating Laws.

2. Are pets permitted in the parks?

All pets must be on a leash or similar constraint not more than six feet (6’) in length, and the owner is responsible for disposal of pet waste.

3. How can I find out about reservable shelter availability?

You can check online for Youth Center, shelters or sports fields rental availability. You can also call
city hall at (515) 262-9368 and they will provide you dates and times of availability.

4. Is alcohol allowed in the parks?

Keg beer of any size, party balls, hard liquor, or glass containers are not allowed in the parks.

5. Is there fishing allowed at Copper Creek Lake Park?

Fishing within a city-owned park must be done according to the regulations of the Iowa DNR. Ice fishing is not permitted at Copper Creek Lake.

6. How do I find out what classes and programs are available?

Recreational class and program information is available online here. Residents can sign up one of two ways:

• Online: Create an account and find your program or facility under the "Register" or "Reserve" menu option.
• In Person: Stop by the Pleasant Hill City Hall Offices, Monday - Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM (City Hall is located at 5160 Maple Dr.

7. What forms of payment can I use to pay for a facility rental or recreation program?

Online registration and reservations and payments can be made here.   

In Person: Stop by the Pleasant Hill City Hall Offices, Monday - Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM (Address: 5160 Maple Dr.)

Checks, cash, credit cards, and money orders are acceptable methods of payments.

8. What hours are the parks open?

Parks are open from sunrise to 10:00 PM.

9. What if I need to cancel my park reservation?

If you find it necessary to cancel your reservation, please call 515-262-9368 and provide the following information: Name of group, signature of applicant, and date of intended use. Refunds of rental fees, less a $10 administrative fee, will only be granted with just cause.

10. Who do I contact about parks maintenance questions and concerns?

You should contact Parks and Recreation at parks.info@pleasanthilliowa.org or call 515-262-9368 for immediate assistance.

11. Is parking at the Youth Center guaranteed?

No, since this is a public facility parking is on a first come first serve basis and may be limited. Your reservation covers the cost to use the youth center only. Parking is limited during the months of April through July due to baseball and soccer league activities. Refunds will not be given due to parking.

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Police

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1. How can I schedule a vehicle inspection?

To schedule a vehicle inspection, please visit https://www.pleasanthilliowa.org/429/DOT-Salvage-Inspection-Process. Before arriving, please review our services provided page and link to the Department of Transportation website for the forms needed. If your paperwork is incorrect, the officers will not perform the inspection.

2. My employer is requiring that I get fingerprinted. Do you do that?

Yes, the Police Department does provide this service. There is a fee for this service, please call 515-265-1444 for current information.

3. Are golf cars allowed on city streets?

The City has adopted City Code Chapter 62 which adopts in its entirety State Code 321.247. This allows for the operation of golf cars on City Streets under the following conditions:

"Incorporated areas may, upon approval of their governing body, allow the operation of golf carts on city streets by persons possessing a valid driver’s license. However, a golf cart shall not be operated upon a city street which is a primary road extension through the city but shall be allowed to cross a city street which is a primary road extension through the city. The golf carts shall be equipped with a slow-moving vehicle sign and a bicycle safety flag and operate on the streets only from sunrise to sunset. Golf carts operated on city streets shall be equipped with adequate brakes and shall meet any other safety requirements imposed by the governing body. Golf carts are not subject to the registration provisions of this chapter.”

Golf cars are not allowed to operate on sidewalks and trails.

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Public Works

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1. Who do I call if I see an animal without identification?

Call the Pleasant Hill Police Department at (515) 286-3333.

2. Who do I call if my street light is out?

Call Mid American Energy at (888) 427-5632. You must have the exact location of the light that is out. For example: "The street light is out in front of 1234 Northeast 99th Avenue."

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Sidewalk Inspections

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1. When will my sidewalks be inspected?

The objective is to inspect all sidewalks within the City’s geographical area, each year.

2. Is a permit required?

A permit is only required, if a property owner chooses to replace the sidewalk. A sidewalk permit costs $15.

3. How much will the City charge to repair my sidewalk?

The city contractors change each year, so the cost is not known. After the notification deadline, an inventory is made of who has and has not repaired their sidewalk. A list is compiled and a bid is solicited from contractors to repair those sidewalks. Depending on the lowest responsible bid received, the City will charge the property owner the costs incurred by the contractor.

4. If the City repairs my sidewalk, what method of repair is done?

The City will only remove and replace sidewalk squares if the City takes charge of the repair work. Therefore, if you desire to utilize a repair option that includes mudjacking, concrete repair, or replacement, you will need to arrange for the work.

5. What will happen if I can’t find a contractor to do the repair work? Is there a penalty?

If the repairs are not completed by the deadline stated in the first notification letter, the City will send a certified notice asking the homeowner to reconstruct the sidewalks within a reasonable time. If such action is not completed within the time stated, the Building Office will take charge of the repair work and will invoice you the costs the City incurs.

6. If I have the City repair my sidewalk, will my property be assessed?

The City will first invoice the property owner for the costs incurred and will work with the property owner in making the payment. Only if the invoice is not paid will the property be assessed and added to property taxes.

7. How long will I have to complete the sidewalk repairs?

It would be appreciated if the repairs were completed as soon as possible in order to provide a safe passageway for pedestrians; however, deadlines are established and given in the first notification letter. If sidewalk is marked due to a complaint, an earlier deadline may be given. Please note that once the sidewalk has been removed, the repair work must be completed within two weeks.

8. Why are property owners responsible for the maintenance of the sidewalks?

Iowa State Code and City Ordinance have established that the maintenance and repair of sidewalks shall be the responsibility of the adjoining property owner. This is detailed in Iowa State Code Book (364.12(d)) and the City of Pleasant Hill Code Book 136.01-18 and provides the City of Pleasant Hill the ability to require an owner to repair sidewalk adjacent to their property

9. I only want to be inconvenienced once; can I repair the sidewalk squares that are the City’s responsibility when I repair mine?

Depending on the reason the City is responsible for the repairs, it may be possible to repair all of them and be reimbursed by the City for the squares that were marked City responsible. Please call (515) 309-9461 to receive prior approval to proceed and to receive prior approval on the cost.

10. Can I fix more squares than what is marked?

Yes. The City only marks the minimum number of squares to eliminate hazards for pedestrians. As the property owner, you may repair additional squares that are in marginal condition, or you may find it is in your best interest to replace the entire sidewalk rather than doing spot repairs.

11. Is there funding available to help pay for the repairs?

The City does not have any funds allocated to offset the costs that property owners will incur to repair their sidewalks.

12. Can the City recommend a contractor?

We do not recommend contractors as we are unable to favor any particular contractor. The City does not require that the contractors be licensed and therefore does not have an approved contractor list.

13. What type of contracts would I search for to make the repairs?

If you are searching use the terms “repair concrete cracks,” “concrete repair,” or mudjacking.” Each of these terms should bring up contractors in the metro that do these types of repairs.

14. Do I have to hire a contractor or can I repair the sidewalk myself?

If you have the ability to complete the repairs to the City’s specifications, you may complete the repair work yourself.

15. Will the City inspect the forms and grade?

An inspection shall be made after the forms are set and prior to the concrete being poured if arrangements are made. To schedule an inspection contact the building department at (515) 309-9461 at least 24 hours in advance.

16. What are the acceptable methods to repair my sidewalk?

There are different acceptable methods of repair depending on the repair type marked on your property. The recommended method of repair is removal and replacement for all types; however, other options are as follows:
• If your sidewalk is raised, cracked into four or more pieces, spalled deeper than one inch, or has separation exceeding two inches at any point in the panel, it must be removed and replaced. The City highly recommends doweling the new squares into the adjacent squares to prevent movement of the new squares.
• If your sidewalk is depressed more than three inches from the normal line of grade, it may be removed and replaced, or, mudjacked if the square is structurally sound and there are no cracks or missing pieces.
• If your sidewalk is displaced ¾ of an inch or more vertically at any point in the panel it may be removed and replaced, mudjacked or ground if the square is structurally sound and there are no cracks or missing pieces. For grinding, be sure to grind to a level surface at least 18” (more if elevation difference necessitates) back from vertical edge, creating a smooth, level transition from one panel to another.
• If your sidewalk has minor surface damage; missing three pieces or less, but greater than four inches, or the sidewalk is spalled between 50 – 75% over surface, it may be patched or sealed with an appropriate patching or sealing material.
• If your sidewalk has one separation greater than one inch less than two inches at any point in the panel level, it may be sealed with a sealant after removal of all vegetation and/or debris.

17. What do I do if the squares marked on my inspection form are actually adjacent to my neighbor’s property?

Call (515) 309-9461 to let us know so that we may evaluate the location of the marked squares. If the square(s) is adjoining your neighbor’s property, they will need to receive the proper notification of the needed repairs.

18. I sold the property, should I call the City?

Yes, if you recently sold property the records may not have been updated at the Polk County Recorder’s office yet. By notifying the City of the recent sale, we can make sure that the correct property owner is notified.

19. What if I disagree with the squares marked?

If you believe that the squares marked adjacent to your property do not meet the criteria established on the inspection form or that it would be preferable to repair the adjoining square, call (515) 309-9461. A second opinion of the need for repairs may be requested, and the City will have the Building Official look at the sidewalk and evaluate it for meeting the criteria.

20. I have seen other squares worse than mine, why weren’t they marked?

The City tries to be as fair and as consistent as possible when marking sidewalk squares for repair. If a complaint is received on a property, only that property and property in the immediate vicinity are inspected. If you believe we missed some sidewalk needing repair, or there is sidewalk in another area of your neighborhood also needs repair work, call (515) 309-9461 with the addresses to initiate inspections of those sidewalks.

21. When the repairs have been made, do I need to notify the City?

Notification is not necessary. The City will automatically re-inspect the sidewalks marked for repair after the deadline stated in your notification letter. If you would like to know if the repair work is satisfactory because you want to make sure your contractor performed acceptable work prior to paying them, you may ask the City to complete an early re-inspection

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Youth Center

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1. Are candles allowed inside the youth center?

No, unfortunately candles create a greater potential for fire and damage to the facility.

2. Are kitchen utensils and cookware provided, such as plates, forks, spoons, knives, pots, or pans?

No, renters are responsible for cookware and serving supplies.

3. Are the tables and chairs included in the rental amount?

Yes they are, however, you are responsible for setting up and tearing down the tables and chairs for the event. The quantity or quality of the tables and chairs are not guaranteed.

4. Can I get a tour of the facility?

Yes, you will need to call (515) 262-9368 to schedule a tour and to pick up a key. Tours can only take place when the building is not rented and during the hours of 8:00 am and 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Key will need to be returned to City Hall within a half an hour.

5. Can I take tables and chairs out of the building?

No, tables and chairs cannot be removed from the building.

6. Do I need to clean up the room when I am done?

Yes, the room needs to be left in the same condition you found it. All tables and chairs need to be put away, floors dry mopped, and wet mopped, and all trash needs to be removed from the building. All cleaning materials are provided and can be found in the cleaning closet.

7. How do I get to the Youth Center?

The Youth Center is located at 5050 Doanes Park Road in Pleasant Hill. The building is in Doanes Park and is located in the northeast corner of the park.

8. If I rent the Youth Center, can I get in early to set up?

Your rental time includes your set up time. If you need to get in early you need to rent that time. Access to the facility is only for the time(s) indicated on the agreement.

9. What are your regulations regarding alcohol?

Alcohol is not permitted in the building. This includes beer, wine, kegs, and liquor.

10. What happens if I forget the key?

You will need to call (515) 208-5212 for assistance. There will also be a $50 service charge to obtain a key after hours.

11. What kind of audio / visual equipment do you have?

We have a projector and screen that is available for use. The youth center also has cable and wireless internet. Please inquire about usage.

12. What number do I call after business hours for assistance?

Call (515) 208-5212.

13. What size are your tables?

We have and estimated 19-5 foot diameter-round tables, seven 8 feet long-rectangle tables, four 5 foot long-rectangle tables, and 140 chairs. We do not guarantee the number of tables and chairs that are provided at the Youth Center.

14. What time can I get into the building?

The Youth Center hours are from 8:00 am to 10:00 PM.

15. Is parking at the Youth Center guaranteed?

No, since this is a public facility parking is on a first come first serve basis and may be limited. Your reservation covers the cost to use the youth center only. Parking is limited during the months of April through July due to baseball and soccer league activities. Refunds will not be given due to parking.