Frequently Asked Questions

What is codification?


Ordinance codification is the process of taking local legislation and editing and compiling it into a 'code', containing the most current law that is logically organized for use by the governmental entity and its constituents. Codification includes a review of all the current legislation to point out discrepancies such as inconsistencies and conflicts, and a comparison with current state law. The codification process allows for local governments to eliminate obsolete provisions, to update outmoded provisions and to do housekeeping changes to its present legislation. This provides everyone with the same accurate and current law for administration and enforcement, as well as informational, purposes.



Why use a professional codifier?


  • A professional codifier has a trained staff whose time is spent strictly on ordinance codification.
  • Uninterrupted time will be devoted to each project.
  • There will be continuity from year to year on the insertion of amendments, formatting, indexing and publishing of your code.
  • More than one staff member will be involved on each project to assure accuracy.
  • A professional codifier provides a one step process that publishes your code for hard copy and for the online code.
  • The cost of technology advancements.

What are the disadvantages of not using a professional codifier?


  • You tend to put the project off.
  • Interruptions occur which cause the individual either to forget something, or to have to go back and redo actions.
  • Your different individuals usually have different discretionary ideas.
  • Your web designers usually do not have the time or technical know-how to put the code online in a format other than a PDF, which provides limited search capabilities and no internal 'jump-to' links.

What is the difference between an ordinance and a resolution?


  • An ordinance is a general body of law and locally published before taking effect.
  • A resolution is more temporary in nature and normally does not require local publication.