What are boarding homes and how the city of Fort Worth is doing in regulating them
The city of Fort Worth is cracking down on boarding homes within the Fort Worth city limits
Fort Worth, Texas – In a noteworthy development, proprietors and administrators of boarding home facilities, which cater to the lodging needs of three or more elderly and/or disabled individuals unrelated to the owner, must now adhere to a recently enacted ordinance in Fort Worth.
Fort Worth new boarding homes ordinance
These establishments typically offer a range of services, such as communal meals, light housekeeping, transportation, and medication assistance, but do not furnish personal care services to residents.
This legislative change, which took effect on April 15, holds considerable significance for boarding home operators in Fort Worth, as it outlines a series of stipulations aimed at ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of residents. The full text of the ordinance provides a comprehensive overview of the new regulations.
Fort Worth new ordinance’s criteria
According to the provisions of the ordinance, boarding home facilities may continue to operate, provided they meet certain criteria, including:
- The owner or operator of a boarding home must possess a validly issued permit to conduct their business within the city limits.
- The facility must successfully pass all mandated inspections.
- A minimum of 70 square feet of floor space is required for each room occupied by a single resident for sleeping purposes.
- A telephone connected to a landline must be available round-the-clock, easily accessible, and afford privacy for residents’ use.
- The kitchen must contain a food preparation area encompassing at least six square feet with a smooth, impermeable surface devoid of cracks, which facilitates easy cleaning.
- The permit holder is obliged to maintain fire escapes and exits in good repair, ensuring their accessibility at all times as per applicable fire codes.
Compliance with these conditions is obligatory for all boarding home operators in Fort Worth. Failure to abide by these regulations may result in the imposition of a fine up to $2,000.
As boarding homes can offer affordable housing alternatives for residents, it is crucial that they function within the boundaries of the law to guarantee the safety and welfare of all occupants.
How to apply to get approval from the city of Fort Worth
To initiate the permitting process, operators are advised to familiarize themselves with the new ordinance and take the necessary steps to comply.
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