B09_Amd2_-_Tenant_Expectations_(AdminCamp)_DEVA_318717_0002.pdf

Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-1

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Housing Program

7.0 Tenant Handbook

This section serves as a tenant handbook for all park housing tenants. It describes the standards and expectations while occupying park housing. Tenants are given this section when they enter park housing and are expected to retain it for reference purposes throughout their occupancy in park housing.

7.1 Park Housing Operating Procedures

7.1.1 Duties and Expectations of Responsible Parties

Occupants of government housing should expect the following:

• To be assigned a rental unit suitable to their needs and terms of appointment

• To be charged a fair and equitable market rate for the rental of their unit, based on the DOI iQMIS program, which determines the rental rate

• To be given keys to a clean, safe, sanitary, energy-efficient, and sustainable (as possible) unit

• To be provided, at a minimum, a stove and refrigerator, as well as window and floor coverings

• To be advised of health/life/safety issues related to occupancy of government housing

• To be advised of emergency evacuation plans and procedures.

• To be provided with housing and emergency contact information (see Appendix I for the housing contact list)

• To be responsible for the verification of rental charges and payroll deductions for rent and tax status, as stated on each leave and earnings statement

• To pay the rental rate as determined by the iQMIS program for the assigned rental unit through payroll deduction, bill of collection, or other means. It is the tenant’s responsibility to notify the park Housing Manager if rent is not deducted or collected for a tenant’s occupancy.

• To sign the Housing Assignment Agreement (Lease) form acknowledging the rental rate and to sign annually thereafter within the annual consumer price index adjustment period (normally February)

• To pay for utilities and other services in a timely manner to the provider, as required.

Some utilities may be included in the rental rate or, in some cases, paid for by the park, in the case of seasonal, volunteer, and other temporary or unpaid staff

• To review the provided inventory data and condition of the unit prior to occupancy (if there are discrepancies, the tenant must contact the Housing Office within 30 days of receipt)

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Housing Program

• To sign the check-in/check-out form acknowledging the condition of the unit prior to occupying and vacating the unit

• To perform good housekeeping for the premises, both the exterior and the interior of the unit, as agreed on Housing Assignment Agreement (Lease) form, to maintain the unit in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner (see Section 7.3.1, Cleanliness Standards, for guidance)

• To occupy assigned government housing as a primary residence when in an RO position (see the Housing Management Handbook and/or Housing RM for more information about primary residences)

• To use the unit for one’s own personal residential purposes only (no subletting of part of or the entirety of the unit)

• To be responsible for the behavior of family members, guests, and pets

• To pay for any damage caused by the tenant or guests and not caused through normal wear and tear

• To obtain renters’ insurance, as is highly recommended (if available)

• To sign a lead-based paint disclosure form, as required

• To be familiar with and adhere to all federal, DOI, NPS, and park policies/regulations, and to the specific park housing-related policies written in this document; and/or to be knowledgeable of the park’s HMP.

The park notifies each tenant of any health hazards and safety issues known in the park by:

• Indicating health hazards and safety issues in the lease signed by the tenant

• Giving all tenants occupying housing units that were built prior to 1978 or that are suspected of having lead-based paint issues/problems lead brochures and lead-based paint disclosure forms to be signed by the prospective tenant(s) prior to occupancy

• Providing all tenants a fact sheet on Hantavirus and appropriate procedures for safe cleaning in areas with evidence of rodent activity

• Providing all tenants with access to asbestos reports and safety information regarding asbestos-containing material contamination

• Giving all tenants the Death Valley Housing Park Policies handbook.

Table 7-1 outlines the general responsibilities related to park housing.

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Housing Program

Table 7-1. Housing Responsibilities Chart

Task/Responsibility Responsible Party Daily and routine housekeeping Tenant Check-in/check-out Housing Office or Supervisor Housing assignments/keys Housing Office Housing Agreement (lease) Housing Office Lead-based paint disclosure form and other forms Housing Office Rent setting and policy information Housing Office Rent collection and payroll deduction Housing Office Routine maintenance and repairs/work orders Facility Management Housing rehabilitation and repairs Facility Management General housing management Housing Office Overall park housing management Superintendent

Refer to the housing contact list in Appendix I for contact information of each responsible party.

7.1.1.1 Facility Management Responsibilities

Tenants and park staff work together to keep housing units in fair to good condition. The park carries out the following maintenance and repairs:

• Damage caused by acts of nature

• Repair of major damage to water systems, wastewater systems, and electrical systems

• Frequent or as-needed pest control inspection and mitigation

• Annual routine maintenance and repairs to heating/cooling systems, water heaters, and wood stoves

• Provision of functioning fire safety devices, such as smoke detectors, smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, radon mitigation fans, carbon monoxide detectors, and sprinkler systems where applicable

• Repair of leaks and faulty appliances.

Damage caused by tenants and/or their guest’s actions, including, but not limited to, neglect, negligence, misuse, or abuse are repaired at the tenant’s expense, excluding normal wear and tear.

The tenant is responsible for the following:

• Changing light bulbs and performing minor repairs such as tightening loose screws or doorknobs

• Seeking park/Superintendent approval prior to performing any alterations, additions, remodeling, or painting. The tenant should be aware that any improvements to a

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Housing Program park housing unit become US government property (see the Terms and Conditions within the rental agreement).

• To notify the Facility Management Office of any maintenance needs to avoid further damage or costly repairs (tenants should not make any unauthorized repairs on their own)

• Contacting the park Housing Manager to clarify the responsibilities if the tenant is unsure of who is responsible for a maintenance issue.

See Section 7.3 for exterior care and cleanliness standards that tenants are required to meet.

Work Requests To request work or repairs to a unit, the tenant should submit a work order request to the Facility Management Office as soon as the problem is discovered.

Non-Emergency Requests Tenants submit non-emergency requests using one of the following processes:

• Complete the online Facility Work Request form on the Death Valley NP Maintenance Google intranet site (https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/deva-maintenance/facility-work-request). Email the form to DEVA_Maintenance@nps.gov.

The network file path for the form is the following:

\\inpdeva0020\ShDataMaint\Maint\Work Order Form Rev 12-15-14.xlsx

• Complete a handwritten copy of the Facility Work Request form and deliver it to the work order desk in the Maintenance Office.

• Call (760) 786-3231 and leave a message describing the work order need. After leaving a message, always follow up with a completed Facility Work Order Request form.

Do not send work order requests to a personal .gov email or call any number other than x231. The above process ensures a work order will be addressed in a timely manner.

Emergency Request During Regular Work Hours Emergency is defined as when life and/or property are threatened if the situation is not quickly assessed and the damage repaired (e.g., a water line/pipe breaks). During emergencies, call the FICC dispatch located in San Bernardino via radio or by telephone. If reporting an emergency by telephone, make sure to ask for Death Valley Dispatch. Once reported, the issue will be paged out to appropriate staff members.

Please see the following details on contacting FICC dispatch:

Radio Contact for FICC:

• Call for “San Bernardino” over the radio

Telephone Numbers for FICC:

https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/deva-maintenance/facility-work-request https://sites.google.com/a/nps.gov/deva-maintenance/facility-work-request mailto:DEVA_Maintenance@nps.gov

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• 760-786-2330

• 909-383-5651

• 888-233-6518

After-Hours Emergency Requests See Section 5.5.1.

Routine Maintenance and Repair Priorities/Procedures When maintenance work is required on a housing unit, work should proceed in accordance with the Housing RM, as applicable:

“Every reasonable effort will be made to avoid inconvenience to the tenant. Plans for inspections and routine maintenance activities should be made known to the tenant as far in advance as possible, and not less than 48 hours ahead. In emergencies, as much notice as possible will be given.”

In accordance with this policy, the park will give tenants 48 hours of prior notice.

Correction of deficiencies related to health/life/safety, critical systems, energy efficiency, and structural repairs, are the highest work priorities. Thereafter, cosmetic improvements are the next work priority level.

Whenever routine maintenance and repairs are scheduled in occupied housing units, tenants must move furnishings out of the way. For example, when a room is scheduled for painting, the tenant must move all furnishings out of the room or to the center of the room. Facility management staff will safeguard furnishings by covering them with drop cloths, as appropriate. Once work is completed, the tenant is responsible for repositioning the furniture.

Rehabilitation Priorities/Procedures Rehabilitation projects are normally limited to vacant housing units to minimize inconvenience to tenants. Should an occupied unit with a health/life/safety deficiency need immediate mitigation, and it is deemed necessary that the unit be unoccupied, the tenant is relocated for the duration of the repairs/rehabilitation at the discretion of the park. The cost to relocate the tenant is borne by the housing income account. For the duration of relocation, the tenant continues to pay the rent for the original unit through payroll deduction and utilities.

7.1.2 Check-in/Check-out Procedures

Occupancy of the housing unit begins with the approval of the housing assignments and the return of the signed Housing Assignment Agreement (lease) form to the park Housing Manager. Occupancy ends with the termination of employment or reassignment of the tenant to another unit, duty station, or park, if applicable. Early termination of occupancy requires 30 days of notification by either party, as agreed to in the Housing Assignment Agreement.

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7.1.2.1 Check-in/Check-out Inspection (NPS Policy)

In accordance with the Housing RM:

“Tenants will participate in a walk-through inspection at both the beginning and end of their occupancy to determine the condition of their unit. Tenants can be of assistance by participating in periodic maintenance inspections and by identifying maintenance problems that might otherwise be overlooked. If a tenant chooses not to participate in such inspections, it may be deemed that any decision (good or bad) will be non-disputable, and any fines or charges will be paid by, or charged to, that tenant. Tenants will be financially responsible for any damage to the premises that results from neglect or damage beyond reasonable wear and tear. Parks should contact their property managers to see when a Board of Survey is necessary.”

7.1.2.2 Check-in Process

Supervisors must schedule key pick-up and housing check-in appointments with the Housing Office two weeks prior to the employee’s arrival. Tenants must have key authorization approved by the Housing Manager prior to the issuance of any housing unit keys. Unless alternative arrangements are requested, tenants will pick up their keys at Cow Creek Maintenance Office with the Maintenance Administrative Assistant. Keys can be picked up between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday only. If this time is not possible, the resident should contact the Housing Office or their supervisor to make alternative arrangements.

Tenants are checked into their housing by the Housing Manager or designee. When necessary, supervisors can make arrangements with the Housing Office to conduct the check-in process. Check-in consists of inspecting the housing unit and completing Form 10-382, Housing Occupancy/Vacancy Inspection, to document and note the condition of the unit and any damage or other maintenance concerns at the time of move-in. Any deficiencies needing attention are submitted to the Facility Management Office in the form of a written work order. If a supervisor is conducting the check-in, any major deficiencies noted should immediately be brought to the attention of the Housing Manager. Photographs may also be used to document the condition of the unit at the time of check-in. The Housing Assignment Agreement, “Terms and Conditions,” and a lead-based paint disclosure form (if applicable) is also signed at this time. It is DOI policy that the tenant sign and date these forms before occupying the unit.

At check-in or within the first week of occupancy, supervisors will make arrangements for the new employee to meet with the Housing Office for an orientation to housing policy and procedures.

7.1.2.3 Check-out Process

Tenants should notify the Housing Office 30 calendar days in advance of vacating their residence. This time frame is necessary to cancel quarter’s deductions through the payroll systems, prepare any potential bill of collection, set up a housing check-out inspection between the tenant and check-out official (Housing Manager or designee), Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-7

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Housing Program have the Housing Office plan for the next occupant, or plan for prospective rehabilitation work. Seasonal employees are asked to give at least 30 calendar days of notice.

It is the responsibility of the tenant to arrange a time (during working hours) for a housing check-out inspection with the Housing Manager or designee. Tenants are provided with the check-out list and the standards for cleanliness that are assessed during this inspection. The original Occupancy/Vacancy Inspection Form, 10-382, used for check-in is used to note any damages, items not cleaned to standards, or anything needing attention by either the resident or maintenance. Photographs may be used to document condition and/or damage to the unit. Any damage is the responsibility of the tenant.

A pre-inspection can be scheduled three to five days prior to the final inspection. This inspection gives the tenant the opportunity to correct any deficiencies noted by the Housing Manager, beyond basic cleaning, prior to the final inspection date. The pre-inspection assists in avoiding unexpected findings at the time of final inspection.

Final inspection and move-out requires the housing unit to be completely empty and clean and must occur Monday through Thursday. If a tenant wishes to schedule a final check-out and move-out Friday through Sunday, and the Housing Manager is available, the tenant will be billed for a minimum of two hours overtime and will be billed for the actual payroll costs. If the final housing inspection is found to be unsatisfactory, the tenant must correct the deficiencies within five business days of their check-out date and continue to pay rent. Employees must correct any deficiencies on their own time.

Tenants are responsible for any damage to the housing unit incurred during their tenancy, other than normal wear and tear. Any damage must be documented and reported, and a cost estimate for repairs is to be submitted to the Facility Management Office within five days of discovery or vacancy. A bill of collection will be issued to the tenant for any damage or misuse of government property, buildings, appliances, or furniture to be paid to Housing Manager.

If the deficiencies are not corrected prior to the tenant vacating the housing unit, a bill of collection is issued to the employee, VIP, or interns for maintenance or cleaning services needed to bring the unit to necessary standards. If a tenant vacates the park without meeting the standards, or without scheduling a check-out inspection, the tenant will be charged for cleaning services.

The resident will turn in housing keys, garage door openers, or other equipment assigned to the tenant at the time of inspection. Tenants may be charged for rekeying the housing unit if keys are not returned.

Cleaning Rates If possible, cleaning services will be performed by a contracted vendor. Due to Death Valley NP’s remote location, the absolute minimum charge for the cleaning services will be $250. The in-house cleaning rate includes: labor ($50/hour), a one-time administrative fee ($50), and any relevant travel fees. Housing units may also be assessed additional cleaning fees for smoke damage and odors, including painting, professional air duct cleaning, carpet removal and replacement, and other necessary

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Housing Program repairs, until the odor is completely removed from the unit. A satisfactory check-out must be received by the Housing Manager to cease rent charges.

Seasonal Employees If a seasonal employee is given permission to move out of a housing unit during the weekend, the unit is inspected by the Housing Manager or designee to identify any deficiencies prior to the tenant’s departure. During the next working shift, the Housing Manager or designee inspects the housing unit again to ensure all required cleaning and repairs were completed. The Housing Manager reserves the right to require all seasonal employees to schedule their check-out inspections and actual move-out dates to Monday through Thursday if, in the future, too many issues arise with weekend move-out processes for seasonal employees.

Shared Housing For shared housing, it is each occupant’s responsibility to ensure cleaning standards are met. Supervisors must emphasize to their employees that tenants vacating shared housing before the remaining housemates must ensure that all common areas and private bedrooms are cleaned prior to the scheduled check-out inspection. If tenants in shared housing are checking out at different times, the remaining tenants must sign off that the vacating tenant did their share of the cleaning and is no longer liable for the condition of the housing unit. It is expected that units will be left in proper condition as part of the employee’s job requirements. Inventory is taken at each tenant’s check-out of shared furnished housing. Lost and/or missing items and damages are billed accordingly.

Standards for Unit Condition at Time of Check-out (Park Policy) Cleanliness standards for the unit for the duration of a tenant’s occupancy and for condition at the time of check-out are provided in Section 7.3.

7.1.2.4 Come Early/Stay Late

Tenants may occupy housing units early and stay late if the unit is not needed for another occupant and if the tenant has permission from the Housing Manager. The resident may check in one day prior to their enter-on-duty (EOD) date, providing that the unit is vacant. Residents whose last work day is a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday may have until the following Monday to vacate the residence, provided that the unit is not needed for another occupant. Tenants who leave on a Monday must schedule their final check-out for that day and not the previous week. Tenants with a Permanent Change of Station may request two to four additional days from the Housing Office, depending on their scheduled move date and if the unit is not needed. Rent is charged throughout occupancy. If a new tenant requests to move into housing a few days prior to their EOD, and the unit is available, they are charged for that time through a bill of collection.

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Housing Program

7.2 Park Policies

7.2.1 Relatives/Guests of Residents

The park defines a guest as anyone staying overnight in park housing at the invitation of the tenant.

7.2.1.1 Relatives or Guests of Seasonal/Less than Year-Round Tenants The park’s policies on guests and relatives of seasonal employees differ based on the type of unit: non-shared or shared.

Non-shared Housing Units Overnight guests including paid employees who live outside of the park are not allowed to reside in seasonal housing, unless they are (1) an official tenant of the unit, (2) a family member or spouse/partner of the paying tenant, or (3) staying for a one-time event. The maximum number of nights the guest can stay overnight cannot exceed 10 nights in a single calendar year.

As per Form DI 1881, government housing “...Premises shall be used for residential purposes only. It shall not be assigned or sublet by occupant in whole or in part.”

Repeated overnight stays by paid employees working in Death Valley without in park housing, during their work week, will be construed as subletting, which is grounds for eviction of the paying tenant.

Shared Housing Units Overnight guests are allowed in shared/seasonal housing units with the following provisions:

• Overnight guests will be permitted only if all tenants of the shared unit are in agreement. If all tenants of the unit do not agree, then overnight guests will not be permitted. It is the responsibility of each tenant to confer with his/her roommate(s) and obtain their approval prior to making specific plans and scheduling guests. The tenant should discuss with his/her roommate(s) the number of guests and length of their anticipated stay, taking into consideration the accommodations available in the surrounding communities and concession facilities. It is recommended that the requesting tenant use good judgment and consider the lack of privacy and any inconveniences this will cause his/her roommate(s). The number of overnight guests will be limited to two per housing unit.

• The length of stay for any guest will not exceed seven consecutive days, including non-shared units (e.g., one-bedroom apartment). A guest may not stay at the residence for at least 7 days between visits and may not exceed a total of 28 days in one calendar year. The number of overnight guests will be limited to two per housing unit.

• Tenants accept full responsibility for the conduct of their guests and will be responsible for all costs incurred for any damage to their housing unit, which was

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Housing Program made by their guest(s). Tenants will be responsible for assuring that their guests adhere to all park housing policies and regulations.

• Death Valley NP employees who live outside of government housing are not permitted to stay with seasonal employees for more than a total of 10 nights in a calendar year, and only for one-time events. Employees should not stay with seasonal employees to avoid commuting, as it is contrary to DOI policy to “sublease” government housing.

• If a seasonal apartment has a shared bedroom situation, and there is more than one tenant, overnight housing guests will not be permitted in that apartment.

• Overnight guests will only be allowed in the dormitory under the following provisions:

o No more than two overnight guests are allowed at any given time for the entire dormitory and each guest shall not stay longer than a total of five nights in a calendar year.

o Overnight guest stays of two nights or less will be permitted only if all tenants are in verbal agreement. If all occupants of the unit do not agree, then overnight guests will not be permitted. It is the responsibility of each tenant to confer with his/her roommates and obtain their approval prior to making specific plans and scheduling guests. For overnight guest stays of more than two nights, the tenant must complete the Overnight Guest Agreement, located in the kitchen of each dormitory. It must be signed by all tenants and the Housing Manager (Monday through Thursday only) prior to the arrival of the guest.

o If a dormitory bedroom has more than one tenant, overnight housing guests will not be permitted in that room.

o Tenants accept full responsibility for the conduct of their guests and any damages incurred by their guests.

7.2.1.2 Relatives/Guests of Permanent/Year-Round Tenants

The park’s policies on guests and relatives of permanent/year-round employees differ based on the type of unit: non-shared or shared.

Non-shared Housing Units Guests of permanent employees in non-shared units are allowed at the discretion of the tenant. It is recommended that the length of stay be limited to a reasonable visitation time. The paying tenant should request written permission from the Superintendent for the non-family member or non-spouse/partner guests if the length of stay will exceed 90 days.

Shared Housing Units The guest policy for shared housing does not distinguish between permanent and seasonal employees. See Section 7.2.1.1 for the guest policy in shared housing units.

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7.2.2 Smoking (NPS Policy)

As stated in the Housing RM:

“NPS strongly encourages a smoke-free environment in both the workplace and government housing. Smoking and second-hand smoke are considered to be health/life/safety hazards. Smoking in non-shared government housing is not recommended; however, each Superintendent may make that determination and the specifics should be outlined in the park policies. Smoking is not allowed in shared government quarters.”

Park housing contains smoke detectors. Tenants are not permitted to remove, damage, or otherwise alter installed smoke detectors.

Smoking is not permitted in government buildings or within 25 feet of doorways or open windows. This includes government housing units and their associated garages. Tenants residing in apartment complexes and multiplexes should be especially conscientious of their location when smoking outside, as evaporative coolers can also draw odors inside.

Permanent housing tenants who moved into their housing units prior to June 2011 and have already smoked inside are exempt from not smoking inside their quarters, but continuance is not recommended.

Tenants will be billed for smoke damage and odors caused by smoking in units.

Smoking will not be permitted near any portion of structures currently used as housing at Scotty’s Castle, including the Hacienda porch, due to their historic nature.

7.2.3 Pet Policy

Housing RM states that:

“Pets must be licensed if required by the city or state where the park is located. Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. Any excessive cleaning or cost to repair damage to government property will be charged to the tenant.”

In addition to the Housing RM, Death Valley NP has more specific policies related to tenants and pets detailed below.

7.2.3.1 Permanent/Year-Round Employees

Death Valley NP allows permanent tenants to keep pets in or around park housing units.

Permanent pet owners must abide by the provisions of 36 CFR 2-15 and by park conditions. For the purposes of this policy, “permanent tenants” include permanent employees, term employees, and any long-term temporary employees (or approved cooperators) granted the ability to bid on and live in permanent housing units. The objective of this policy is to provide occupants of park housing the opportunity to own household pets under conditions that ensure that:

• Pets do not impair park resources or damage park property

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• Visitors, residents, and employees are protected from physical threats, disturbances, or offensive conditions created by pets

• Pets are kept in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and requirements.

This policy applies to all occupants in housing areas regardless of employer or employment status. The keeping of pets is a privilege, not a right, and a pet owner bears the responsibility of adhering to the conditions and restrictions set forth in this policy. Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. If pet owners violate the park pet policy, the pet owner will be given one written warning to comply. The Superintendent shall have the right to require the pet owner to remove the pet(s) from the park and/or to vacate park quarters, if a second violation occurs.

The following conditions and restrictions apply to the keeping of pets in permitted units:

• Pets allowed: Household pets that can be permanently confined within the tenant’s residence are allowed. Examples of such pets include dogs, cats, caged birds, aquarium fish, hamsters, and non-poisonous snakes.

• Animals prohibited: The following animals are not allowed to be kept as pets:

o Native wildlife o Rare, threatened, or endangered species o Any livestock, farm animals, or poultry, such as horses, burros, cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, pigs, chickens, geese, and ducks o Bees o Animals which cannot be permanently confined within the occupant’s residence

• Horses, burros, and similar large animals are not considered to be household pets within the context of this policy. Horses and similar livestock will not be kept or boarded within Death Valley National Park with the following exceptions: animals used by authorized federal, state, and local law enforcement officers in the performance of their official duties; pack animals used for official business;

concession-operated liveries; on private land in holdings.

• Permanent employees living in non-shared housing and tenants of cooperating agency housing are restricted to two cats, two dogs, or a combination of one cat and one dog. There currently are no restrictions on the number of aquarium, terrarium, or caged animals or birds that do not leave their enclosures. Exceptions require the signed approval of the Superintendent and the signed documentation must be kept on file in the Housing Office.

• Tenants of the historic Hacienda apartments at Scotty’s Castle may not keep pets at those quarters. This is due to the historic nature of the structure and proximity to visitors on the grounds.

• Female pets shall be confined during estrous. Breeding operations shall not be conducted within Death Valley. Rearing animals as a business is not allowed.

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• Tenants will be required to register dogs and cats with the park’s Housing Office within one week of their arrival to the park. The primary intent of this registration is to aid in reuniting pets with their owners and insuring licensing and vaccinations are current.

• Never leave pets inside hot vehicles.

• An annual Inyo County Dog License is required for all dogs kept in park housing.

Animal Services recommends that pet owner’s micro-chip their cats and dogs.

Annual inoculations required, at a minimum include:

o Cats: Annual rabies and distemper o Dogs: Must have two rabies shots in the first two years of life and then once every three years thereafter.

Contact your local veterinarian or Animal Services for additional information on other vital inoculations, such as feline leukemia, parvovirus, etc.

• If a tenant needs to get in contact with Inyo County Animal Services, call the Sherriff’s Office at (760) 878-0323. They sell dog licenses (2017 prices: $10 per altered dog, $20 for unaltered dog), euthanize dogs and cats at owners request, live trap stray animals, and have micro-chip scanners to reunite lost pets with their owners. Animal Services teams up with a traveling veterinary clinic one Saturday each January to provide pet services to Death Valley residents at the Furnace Creek Post Office.

• Proof of vaccination and/or dog licensing shall be submitted to the Housing Manager or Law Enforcement upon request.

• Pet owners assume an obligation to their neighbors whereby their pets do not disturb, menace, or otherwise inconvenience others. Disturbance includes noise created by persistent barking, meowing, or howling and offensive odors or conditions resulting from excrement.

• No pet shall be left unattended for an extensive period of time and owners shall be responsible for normal care, feeding, and health of their pets.

• With the exception of the unpaved portion of Nevares Road, pets (including cats) shall be under physical restraint at all times when outside either by means of a leash or within a fenced enclosure that is completely capable of containing the pet. Voice control is not adequate compliance with this restriction. Yard fences, dog runs, or other fenced enclosures may be constructed at residences only by prior written approval of the Superintendent, with consultation from the Housing Manager.

Fencing, caging, and tethering of pets outside apartment buildings is not allowed.

• The gravel/dirt road leading from the Cow Creek residence area to Nevares Spring is open to pets off physical restraint for the purpose of exercise. Only the road surface may be utilized for this purpose. Pet owners must remain in control of their animals to prevent aggressive behavior towards people, pets, and wildlife. Temporary closures may be placed on this road to protect either the environment or pets and their owners. This privilege is limited to resident employees and their guests.

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• Pets are not permitted in the following areas within Death Valley: trails, backcountry, work areas, offices, government vehicles, and visitor centers.

• Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up all pet excrement in their yard on a daily basis, bagging it, and discarding the bag in residential trash dumpsters. Owners are also required to pick up all pet excrement deposited when walking or exercising animals.

• All pets must be removed from the park at the conclusion of the owner’s tenure. No pets, native or non-native, may be released within the park.

• Pet owners shall be responsible for any damage to park property or residences (including yards) caused by their pets.

• The Superintendent and Housing Manager will hear all complaints involving pets.

Residents are encouraged to attempt to amicably resolve problems arising from pet ownership with their neighbors before seeking redress through the Superintendent.

To discuss pet issues with the Superintendent and Housing Manager, please make an appointment at 760-786-3229.

Supervisors are responsible for providing advance notice of pet restrictions to new employees and volunteers before their arrival to Death Valley NP.

7.2.3.2 Seasonal/Less than Year-Round Employees

Seasonal/less than year-round tenants are not allowed to keep pets in or around park housing units. An exception to this policy is seasonal/less than year-round tenants that provide their own RV or equivalent and rent a trailer pad. RV tenants may keep their pets with them within their RV. Pet owners must abide by the provisions of 36 CFR 2-15 and by the conditions established by the park (see Section 7.2.3.1).

In the case of temporary employees with terms lasting longer than 12 months, they may be eligible to bid on a housing unit if they meet bidding criteria (see Section 3.3.3). If they are awarded a permanent, non-shared unit, then they may have pets in compliance with standard park pet policy. If the tenant is eligible to bid, but is not awarded a permanent, non-shared unit (they are directly assigned a unit instead), the normal temporary employee pet restrictions apply.

New temporary hires should not bring their pets with them unless it is confirmed before their arrival that they have been awarded a non-shared, permanent housing unit that is pet-friendly. If it is found that a new hire has brought a pet with them and they are assigned to a seasonal or shared unit, they must move out of park and seek housing in the local communities. Alternatively, they may make arrangements for their pet to reside elsewhere. Employees found in violation will be given notice and one week to resolve the issue (or less, if there is an immediately health and safety issue). If the issue is not resolved with the one week, their lease will be terminated and the eviction process will be started.

It is crucial for supervisors to communicate to their incoming hires that, in general, the park cannot accommodate temporary employees that wish to bring pets, and that even if

Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-15

U.S. Department of the Interior

Housing Program a new hire is eligible to bid (due to an extended seasonal term), there is no guarantee that they will be awarded a permanent, non-shared unit that accommodates pet ownership. Failure to properly inform temporary hires in advance of their arrival puts the new employee in a difficult situation and creates discord in the housing environment.

Service and emotional support animals such as comfort animals, guide dogs accompanying visually impaired persons, and hearing ear dogs accompanying hearing impaired persons, are exempted from this restriction. The employee must petition the Superintendent in writing prior to occupying the house for approval. The Superintendent's written approval is kept as part of the housing files maintained by the Housing Manager. If necessary, the park will adjust housing assignments to accommodate the person’s needs. Pet owners must abide by the provisions of 36 CFR 2-15 and by the conditions established by the park (see Section 7.2.3.1).

7.2.4 Home Businesses

Housing RM states that:

“Home businesses include both for-profit and not-for-profit businesses of a continuing nature…

“Tenants must seek written approval from the Superintendent or Site Manager of any existing or future plans for any home business…

“Persons having home businesses in parks must comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.”

“NPS managers may not permit a person in a unit of the National Park System, including nonemployees and family members, to conduct a business activity within the park unit where such action will: a. Interfere with the NPS mission, such as endanger resources, impact visitor use, hinder employee duties, compete with concessioner, or be a ‘visitor service’."

For more information on restrictions on operating home businesses in NPS housing, tenants are directed to the Housing RM, Chapter 9.2.1.

Activities of a one-time or infrequent nature are not considered home businesses and are exempt from the permission process, though even one-time events must be consistent with the criteria listed below.

This policy is applicable to all tenants, family members, and guests living in government housing units.

Tenants may petition the Superintendent in writing to obtain permission to conduct a home business within government housing unit. Tenants must state the full nature of the proposed business. Home businesses in Death Valley will follow Director’s Order #37.

Written permission may be issued by the Superintendent for eligible activities with or without special conditions to meet park requirements. Denials may be appealed to the Regional Director. Home businesses of the following nature may be permitted:

Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-16

U.S. Department of the Interior

Housing Program

• Where the product produced in the home is sold outside the park. Examples:

painting a landscape and selling the product at a fair, or selling products through or to a concession.

• Where goods or services are provided to employees and other people living in the park which do not entail door-to-door solicitation. Examples: selling housewares or cosmetics; child care, in-house nursing, or similar care done on a regular fee-for-services basis; music lessons; or small appliance repair.

• Where a home business is conducted by telephone, mail, or through the internet.

Example: a mail order business.

However, NPS managers may not permit a person occupying government housing, including non-employees and family members, to conduct a business activity within a park unit where such action will:

• Interfere with the NPS mission such as endanger resources, impact visitor use, hinder employee duties, compete with the concession, or be a “visitor service”.

• Be a conflict of interest or create an appearance of a conflict of interest, or be inconsistent with the Department of the Interior Regulations on Employee Responsibilities and Conduct (see 43 CFR, Parts 1 through 7).

• Be a nuisance, such as creating parking problems, excessive noise, or odor, or create a visual impairment.

• Involve the use of government housing as a store or professional company, where the general public comes to transact business.

• Involve the use of government housing as rental space of overnight accommodations or involve the sublease of government housing (to include advertising a government housing unit on couch surfing/house swapping sites, even if unpaid).

• Involve door-to-door solicitation in the park or any form of visitor solicitation.

• Involve advertising, signs, or notices in park areas.

Persons having home businesses in Death Valley NP must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Failure to do so is grounds for cancellation of the written authorization. The conduct of a home business shall not impose any liability or obligation of any type on the government (e.g., security, utility services, and waste disposal).

Garage sales will not be permitted in or at individual government housing units unless the Superintendent gives written consent for the one-time event. Acceptable situations may include employee association fundraisers, tenants moving into or out of a housing unit, and similar activities. Garage sales will not be allowed in areas where the general public could easily view the event, such as the lower Cow Creek dormitories or RV sites.

The above rules must be followed at all times. Garage sale items can only be set up outside of a tenant’s residence on the permitted days of the event. At the conclusion of the approved event, all sales items, tables, etc. must be returned to their indoor storage locations and cannot be left outside, even if they have not sold.

Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-17

U.S. Department of the Interior

Housing Program

Children of Death Valley NP residents will be allowed to conduct one-time events such as selling cookies for Girl Scouts, popcorn for Boy Scouts, wrapping paper for schools, and candy for church groups as fundraisers for non-profit organizations. They may sell door-to-door, for this purpose only, when accompanied by an adult. They may not sell at any public facility within the park. Superintendent’s approval is not needed for this type of business.

Residents may conduct individual home parties such as “Tupperware,” “Fuller Brush,” “Pampered Chef,” “Candlelight,” and similar activities without Superintendent’s approval.

If a resident chooses to become a dealer or distributor, they must obtain permission from the Superintendent.

7.2.5 Other Park-Specific Policies

Non-Pay Status Tenants on leave, furlough, at training, or assigned to out-of-park details will continue to be charged for housing and related facilities unless the housing unit is vacated, keys turned in, and the unit is available for reassignment to another employee. Tenants leaving the park for extended periods of time should find someone to check in on their residence while absent.

Electricity Utility Bills for Permanent Employees (Non-Shared) Generally, permanent residents of park housing are required to place electric utilities into their name upon occupancy of their assigned unit. The exception to this rule is permanent tenants of units equipped with photovoltaic solar panels. Due to the nature of the energy credits, electricity for these units will remain in the park’s name. This ensures that the park receives energy credits for electricity generated by the panels as opposed to the tenants.

In lieu of putting electricity in their name or being charged a regional usage average, tenants of these units are charged a $75 monthly fee for the solar panels as a portion of their rent. Historically, tenants of these units have had an energy-neutral footprint. The park reserves the right to bill residents of these units for any excessive electricity consumption that exceeds what is collected by the solar panel fee.

The current photovoltaic-equipped permanent units are iQMIS #s 359A, 359B, 359C, 357A, 357B, 358A, and 358B.

Special Provisions for Historic Residences Cow Creek Residences Significant character-defining elements of PV-1 and PV-10 (Civilian Conservation Corps era) housing include original stone patios, fireplaces, and chimneys, as well as some original interior fabric. All fireplaces have been blocked off by facility maintenance and shall not be used by tenants for fire or other heat producing activities. Furthermore, permanent changes to the character of the structures should not be made to those

Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-18

U.S. Department of the Interior

Housing Program features without Sec.106 National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) compliance documentation and analysis.

Mission 66 structures at Cow Creek are either eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) or potentially eligible. Until the park has completed a determination with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), the answer is not fully known. All repairs to these structures must be in-kind. Permanent changes to the character of the structures should not be made without Sec.106 NHPA compliance documentation and analysis.

Grapevine Residences The developed area at Grapevine (Ranger Station, maintenance shop, apartment building and associated landscape) is potentially eligible for the NRHP as a historic district as part of the NPS Mission 66 Program. All repairs to the exterior of the 275 Grapevine apartments and surrounding landscape must be in-kind. Permanent changes to the exterior character of the structure and landscape should be made in consultation with the SHPO, per Section 106 of the NHPA.

• Dart boards result in damage to historic concrete and are not permitted.

• Nails and tape on exterior surfaces are not permitted.

• Parking space for tenant vehicles is provided in front of the apartments for those living in apartments and their guests.

• Quiet hours (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) are standard throughout Death Valley. Music from stereos and other devices carry onto the grounds used for the visitors and may disturb neighbors. Please use these devices with discretion.

• Only ground mounted (tri-pod or pole type) installation of satellite/internet dishes will be permitted at Grapevine. Before the installation of new dishes, the tenant shall seek approval of the Housing Manager.

• Tenant yard-care debris questions should be brought to the attention of the Buildings and Grounds Supervisor.

Scotty’s Castle Residences Tenants living within the Death Valley Scotty Historic District (Scotty’s Castle) have obligations and responsibilities which accompany living in such a unique historic area, because the residences are more than just housing units. They are an integral and important part of Scotty’s Castle and each tenant is, in a sense, a “caretaker” of that particular portion of the Historic District. For example, each tenant is required, as a condition of accepting occupancy, to assume an obligation to minimize visual and audible elements incongruous with the historic appearance of Scotty’s Castle, minimize damage and impacts to historic features, and to cooperate with park cultural resource and interpretation staff in the continuing effort to maintain an authentic appearance and atmosphere.

Housing Management Plan – Death Valley National Park 7-19

U.S. Department of the Interior

Housing Program

The Hacienda is divided into two apartments, Hacienda East and Hacienda West. The apartments are located on the first floor above a basement used as NPS office space.

The following rules are provided to tenants occupying these quarters and will assist in day-to-day living in historical structures. In general, an appreciation for these unique cultural resources, coupled with the application of common sense, will result in the reasonable care expected. Keeping the buildings clean and conforming to the Historic District taste and ethics of architecture are important. Tenants of Historic Residences are responsible for following the provisions below. Requests for exceptions to these rules must be approved in writing by the Superintendent after receiving consultation from the Housing Manager and Scotty’s Castle Curator. Any exceptions must be documented in the tenant’s housing files. Verbal exceptions/agreements will not be accepted.

• Interior of the Hacienda Residences o Do not place new nail holes in the walls or woodwork.