A boarding home facility is an establishment that provides lodging and various services to three or more elderly and/or disabled persons who are not related to the owner, including community meals, light housework, transportation and medication assistance. However, it does not provide personal care services to its residents.

Why it matters: If you own or operate a boarding home in Fort Worth, you need to be aware of the new ordinance regulating their use that went into effect on April 15. Check out the full ordinance.

Under the ordinance, boarding houses may be permitted with certain conditions, including:

• A person must have a valid issued permit if they want to own or operate a boarding home facility in the city.
• A boarding home facility must pass all required inspections.
• Each room occupied for sleeping purposes by one occupant must contain at least 70 square feet of floor space.
• A telephone that is connected to a landline must be available 24 hours a day, be easily accessible and afford privacy for use by residents.
• A kitchen must have a food preparation area of at least six square feet that is smooth, impermeable, free of cracks and easily cleanable.
• The permit holder shall provide fire escapes and exits that are kept in good repair and accessible always under applicable fire codes.

If you own or operate a boarding home in the City of Fort Worth, you must comply with these stipulations. Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to $2000.

To begin the permitting process: Boarding homes can provide affordable housing options for residents. However, it's essential that they operate within the confines of the law to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all occupants.