Polk Township residents packed the room last week to weigh in on a proposed zoning amendment that would require a certificate of occupancy and inspection whenever a property is sold.

Attorney James Fareri, speaking at a hearing before the board of supervisors meeting, said the ordinance is meant to ensure safety and compliance.

“Zoning ordinances are the law and we will follow the law and promote the safety of people,” he said. “This is an opportunity to correct any zoning ordinances that aren’t in compliance.”

Under the draft ordinance, property owners would receive 15 days’ notice for an inspection by the zoning officer, who would check only exterior zoning issues such as garages, sheds, decks and 911 address signs.

“Ninety-nine percent of zoning is readily visible from the outside,” Fareri noted.’

If violations are found, owners would receive notice and a time frame to correct them. A separate resolution would establish a fee schedule for inspections.

Residents questioned how they would know what is required and raised concerns about older properties. Fareri said the board would “take under advisement” requests to create a checklist, stressing the ordinance is still in draft form.

Resident Sarah Martini also objected to language allowing the zoning officer to check “any other ordinances of the township.”

Fareri assured her, that would be removed.

“We’re here to take input,” he said.

The board referred the ordinance back to the planning commission for further revisions. Substantial changes are expected, and a new draft may not be ready until November or later, at which time the public will again be notified.