Title 16 Interpretations

In the interest of public health, safety, and welfare, the director of HAND has the authority given in BMC 16.01.080(b) to “adopt and promulgate rules and procedures; to interpret and implement the provision of [Title 16]; and to secure the intent thereof.” The HAND Director has determined, in the interest of public health, safety, and general welfare the following:

• Effective immediately: The term “complaint” as stated in BMC 16.03.025(d) shall be interpreted to be equivalent to the definition of “complaint inspection” contained in BMC 16.02.020, which states in relevant part: “...a written request that indicates there is a violation of title 16 at the stated residential rental unit submitted by any resident of the city, any governmental agency or employee, [etc.].” See full text.

• Effective 12:01 a.m. on April 1, 2025: BMC 16.02.020 “Residential rental unit” (1) “Occupancy in a residential rental unit owned by Indiana University,” shall include properties that are owned by the Indiana University (IU) Foundation. See full text.

• Effective 12:01 a.m. on April 1, 2025: In BMC§ 16.03.030(e), the term "mail" shall include "email." See full text.

• Effective 12:01 a.m. on April 14, 2025: In the event of a "rent-to-own" or "sale-on-contract" property, the seller shall take the normal steps as though the property was a normal rental, with the buyer of the property taking the place of the renter. Once all Title 16 requirements are fulfilled, and a copy of the contract has been provided to HAND signed by both parties, a temporary occupancy permit shall be issued for the duration of the contract. Once the contract is complete, the temporary occupancy permit will be void. In the event the contract is broken or changed, the legal title holder shall be responsible for informing HAND and the temporary occupancy permit is void effective immediately, unless otherwise directed by the HAND Director. In the event the buyer rents the property before the contract is complete, both the buyer and original seller are subject to Title 16. See full text.

Please direct any questions regarding the above policy to the Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development at hand@bloomington.in.gov or 812-349-3420.