9 Del. C. § 1307 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter I / Section 1307
§ Â
        1307. Planned street lines and public parks; official map.
Status: in_force

(a) Upon the recommendation of the Department, the County Council, by ordinance, may adopt an official map containing:

(1) The exact location of the planned lines of street widenings and extensions, or of future streets;

(2) The lines of all public streets then existing which have been established by law;

(3) All planned streets or street lines previously adopted under this section;

(4) All streets or street lines as located on the final or recorded plats of subdivisions as previously approved by the Department;

(5) All existing or planned public parks and other public open spaces.

(b) After adoption of the official map or street plan, no amendments thereto showing the location of a planned or mapped street shall be adopted before public notice shall have been given to the owners of record of the land upon which, or abutting which, lies the future street lines designated upon the plan.

(c) Any map or plan adopted prior to May 26, 1965, under Chapter 25 of this title, shall remain in effect until the County Council acts under the provisions of subsection (a) of this section.
9 Del. C. § 7111 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 71 / Section 7111
§ Â
        7111. Exceptions.
Status: in_force

This chapter shall not apply to:

(1) Properties, buildings, or structures located within any incorporated city or town in Sussex County unless the responsibility for the local code enforcement has been duly transferred to Sussex County.

(2) Land deemed to be actively devoted to agricultural, horticultural, or forestry as defined in § 8333 of this title.

(3) Any structure that is not subject to regulation pursuant to § 6902(b) of this title.

(4) State parks and wildlife areas.
9 Del. C. § 6808 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 68 / Section 6808
§ Â
        6808. Investigations, maps and reports of Commission.
Status: in_force

The Commission shall have full power to make such investigations, maps, and reports of the resources, condition and needs of the District as it deems desirable. Upon completion of such reports, the Commission shall submit the same to the county government with its recommendations. The Commission shall report annually to the county government on the activities of the Commission during the preceding year.
9 Del. C. § 1147 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 11 / Subchapter IV / Section 1147
§ Â
        1147. Vacancies.
Status: in_force

(a) The office of an elected official of the County Council shall become vacant upon the official’s death, resignation, removal from office in any manner authorized by law, or forfeiture of the office. The office shall be deemed to have been forfeited should the incumbent at any time during the incumbent’s term of office:

(1) Lack any qualifications for the office prescribed by this subchapter or other law of the State, including residence in the district from which the official was elected;

(2) Violate any express prohibition of this title; or

(3) Be convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude.

(b) Whenever a vacancy in County Council occurs for any reason, within 10 days following the creation of the vacancy, the President of County Council shall deliver to the Department of Elections for New Castle County a writ of election reporting the existence of the vacancy and requesting that a special election be scheduled to fill the same.

(c) On the next day after receiving a writ of election, unless the same shall be Sunday and then on the Monday next following, the Department of Elections for New Castle County shall post a proclamation reciting the writ and appointing a day for holding a special election, and the Council member or members to be chosen, at the following locations:

(1) On the outside of the door of the New Castle County Courthouse;

(2) On the internet; and

(3) In at least 5 public places in the council district for which it received a writ of election.

(d) (1) President of County Council. — If the Department of Elections for New Castle County receives a writ of election reporting the existence of a vacancy in the Office of President of the County Council then, no more than 45 days after posting said proclamation pursuant to subsection (c) of this section, it shall hold a special election to fill such vacancy; provided, however that:

a. If the special election to fill the vacancy must be scheduled pursuant to this section within the 45 days immediately following another special election, the special election to fill the vacancy shall be held on the forty-fifth day following the previous special election; and

b. If the special election to fill the vacancy must be scheduled pursuant to this section on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, said special election shall be held on the first business day thereafter.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (d)(1) of this section:

a. In the year of a general election, if a vacancy occurs in the Office of President of the County Council on or after June 1 but before August 20 of that year, the special election to fill such vacancy shall be held that year on the day of the general election;

b. In the year of a general election in which the Office of President of the County Council is not on the general election ballot, if a vacancy occurs in the Office of President of the County Council on or after August 20 of that year but before the date of the general election, the special election to fill such vacancy shall be held that year on the forty-fifth day following the general election, or within 1 week thereafter.

(e) (1) Council Members other than President. — If the Department of Elections for New Castle County receives a writ of election reporting the existence of a vacancy on New Castle County Council other than in the Office of President of the County Council then, no more than 30 days after posting said proclamation pursuant to subsection (c) of this section, it shall hold a special election to fill such vacancy; provided, however that:

a. If the special election to fill the vacancy must be scheduled pursuant to this section within the 30 days immediately following another special election, the special election to fill the vacancy shall be held on the thirtieth day following the previous special election.

b. If the special election to fill the vacancy must be scheduled pursuant to this section on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, said special election shall be held on the first business day thereafter.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (e)(1) of this section:

a. In the year of a general election, if the vacancy occurs on or after July 1 but before August 20 of that year, the special election to fill such vacancy shall be held that year on the day of the general election;

b. In the year of a general election in which the vacated office is not on the general election ballot, if the vacancy occurs on or after August 20 of that year but before the date of the general election, the special election to fill such vacancy shall be held that year on the thirtieth day following the general election, or within 1 week thereafter.

(f) Any political party eligible to have a candidate listed on a ballot in the most recent general election preceding the creation of the vacancy may select a candidate to be listed on the ballot for the special election. Candidate names must be received by the Department of Elections for New Castle County no more than 10 days following the date on which the Department posts its proclamation reciting the writ of election and appointing a day for holding a special election. The candidate for a political party shall be selected by the county chair of that party, or in the event that a county chair does not exist, then by the party’s state chair.

(g) To the greatest extent feasible, the Department of Elections for New Castle County will use the same polling places as used in a general election; provided, however, that the department may require voters from multiple election districts to use a single polling place and, in the event a normal polling place is not available to be used on the day of the special election, may use as polling places buildings which are not normally used as polling places.

(h) The Department of Elections for New Castle County will appoint election officers as necessary to conduct the special election.

(i) Except as provided in this section, special elections conducted to fill a vacancy in County Council shall be provided for, opened, held, conducted and closed and the result thereof ascertained and certified in the same manner and subject to the same laws, as far as the same may be applicable, as are prescribed for the general election; provided, however, that the provisions of § 4980(b) of Title 15 shall not apply to any special election held pursuant to this section, nor shall that section interfere with the conduct of a special election held pursuant to this section. Ballots for any special election conducted on the date of a general election pursuant to this section shall be merged with the general election ballots for that date and the 2 elections shall be conducted as a single, general election.

(j) The Superior Court for New Castle County, as constituted under article V, § 6 of the Delaware Constitution, shall at 10 a.m. on the second day after a special election conducted in accordance with this section convene and perform its duties prescribed by the Delaware Constitution with reference to the special election, at the same place, with the same powers and in the same manner as for a general election. If the second day after a special election is a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, the canvass of the special election shall commence at 10 a.m. on the first business day thereafter.

(k) A candidate elected pursuant to this section shall immediately upon certification of election take office and shall serve until the expiration of the term.

(l) Unless otherwise provided by the laws of this State, all necessary costs and expenses, including the compensation of election officers, incurred in carrying into effect a special election pursuant to this section, except those that have merged with the general election pursuant to subsections (d) and (e) of this section, shall be paid by New Castle County.
9 Del. C. § 1501 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 15 / Subchapter I / Section 1501
§ Â
        1501. Definitions.
Status: in_force

As used in this part, unless the context requires a different meaning:

(1) “County” means New Castle County.

(2) The words “New Castle County government,” or words of similar import, mean the government of New Castle County as established in Chapter 11 of this title.
9 Del. C. § 4404 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 44 / Section 4404
§ Â
        4404. Inspections.
Status: in_force

The Chief of Building Inspections or the Chief’s designee shall make the necessary inspections to see that this chapter is complied with and may order or compel the suspension of any work that is not in compliance with this chapter.
9 Del. C. § 4642 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4642
§ Â
        4642. Contents of notice of sale â Rejection of proposals.
Status: in_force

Each notice of sale shall reserve the right to reject any and all bids and shall state that any bid not complying with the terms of the notice will be rejected.
9 Del. C. § 7003 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 70 / Section 7003
§ Â
        7003. County Administrator.
Status: in_force

(a) Appointment; qualifications; compensation. — The county government shall appoint a County Administrator by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the county government, for a term, not exceeding 4 years and fix his or her compensation. The County Administrator shall be appointed solely on the basis of his or her executive and administrative qualifications. At the time of his or her contractual starting date he or she shall be a resident of Sussex County, and, during his or her tenure of office, he or she shall at all times reside within Sussex County.

(b) Removal from office. — The county government may remove the County Administrator from office before the expiration of his or her term, but only in accordance with the following procedures:

(1) By affirmative vote of a majority of all the members of the county government upon adoption of a preliminary resolution which shall state the reason for the removal. A copy of the resolution shall be delivered promptly to the County Administrator;

(2) Within 10 days after a copy of the resolution is delivered to the County Administrator, he or she may file with the county government a written request for a public hearing. This hearing shall be held at a special county government meeting not later than 30 days after the request is filed. The County Administrator may file with the county government a written reply not later than 5 days prior to the hearing. The County Administrator shall be permitted to appear in person at the hearing in lieu of a full written reply to the charges made, and present his or her case with witnesses as the circumstances may require;

(3) The county government may adopt a final resolution of removal, which may be made effective immediately, by affirmative vote of a majority of all the members at any time after 10 days from the date when a copy of the preliminary resolution was delivered to the Administrator, if Administrator has not requested a hearing.

(c) Acting county administrator. — The county government may designate a qualified acting county administrative officer to exercise the powers and perform the duties of County Administrator during the latter’s absence or disability.

(d) Powers and duties. — The County Administrator shall be the chief administrative officer of the County. The County Administrator shall attend the meetings of the county government, and be responsible to the county government for the proper administration of all the affairs of the County which the county government has authority to control.

Under the direction of the county government, the County Administrator shall have the following powers and duties, except as otherwise provided by this chapter, law or governing personnel regulations:

(1) He or she shall appoint and, when he or she deems it necessary, suspend or remove any county employees and appointive administrative officers with the exception of the Director of Finance. He or she may authorize any administrative officer who is subject to his or her direction and supervision to exercise these powers with respect to subordinates in that officer’s department, office or agency;

(2) The County Administrator shall direct and supervise the administration of all departments, offices and agencies of the County;

(3) The County Administrator shall have the right to take part in discussion at all county government meetings but may not vote;

(4) The County Administrator shall see that all laws, provisions of this chapter, and acts of the county government, subject to enforcement by the County Administrator or by officers subject to his or her direction and supervision, are faithfully executed;

(5) The County Administrator shall prepare and submit a proposed annual budget and capital program to the county government, with his or her recommendations and shall execute the budget as finally adopted;

(6) The County Administrator shall make reports, at least once monthly, to the county government in regard to matters of administration, and keep the county government fully advised as to the financial condition of the county government;

(7) The County Administrator shall submit to the county government and make available to the public a complete report on the finances and administrative activities of the County within 60 days after the end of each fiscal year;

(8) The County Administrator shall familiarize himself or herself in detail with the affairs of all officers, departments, boards, and agencies and make recommendations and reports to the county government at such times as the government may direct. The County Administrator may order an audit of any office or agency at any time by the independent auditor engaged by the county government;

(9) The County Administrator shall perform such other duties as are specified in this chapter or as may be required by the county government.
9 Del. C. § 1309 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter I / Section 1309
§ Â
        1309. Presumption of approval.
Status: in_force

In the case of any matter required to be submitted to the Department or to the Planning Board, approval shall be presumed by the Department or Planning Board unless the Department or Planning Board shall have acted within 45 days of receipt thereof, unless a longer time shall have been allowed by the County Council.
9 Del. C. § 924 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 9 / Subchapter II / Section 924
§ Â
        924. Hearing procedures; appeal [Transferred].
Status: in_force

Transferred to § 3075F of Title 16 by 80 Del. Laws, c. 248, § 6, effective May 25, 2016.
9 Del. C. § 9406 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 94 / Section 9406
§ Â
        9406. Deposit of public moneys; penalty.
Status: in_force

(a) The clerk of the peace shall deposit daily to the credit of the State Treasurer and the receiver of taxes and county treasurer, respectively, in the Farmers’ Bank at the county seat of the clerk of the peace, all moneys received by him or her and payable to the State or county, and thereupon send to the State Treasurer and the receiver of taxes and county treasurer, respectively, by mail, a certificate of deposit.

(b) Whoever, being a clerk of the peace, wilfully fails or neglects to make the deposit of moneys required by this section, within the time herein prescribed, shall be fined in such amount or imprisoned for such term, or both, as the court, in its discretion, may determine, and shall forfeit, ipso facto, his or her office and such failure to put into the post office, within the prescribed time, the certificate of deposit required by this section, duly addressed to the State Treasurer or receiver of taxes and county treasurer, shall be a breach of the condition of his or her official bond.

(c) This section shall not apply to the Clerk of the Peace of New Castle County.
9 Del. C. § 670 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 6 / Subchapter V / Section 670
§ Â
        670. Acquisition of land for parks; title and ownership; gifts.
Status: in_force

(a) The county government may take or acquire by condemnation in accordance with law, agreement, purchase or gift, lands located within the county outside of the corporate limits of any city or town and not already devoted to a public purpose or used by a public utility in its service of the public as may seem to the county government suitable for park and recreational purposes and necessary to meet the requirements of this chapter. Title and ownership of such lands, however acquired, shall be vested in the State for the use of the county. The county government, pursuant to agreement executed by an incorporated city or town, may acquire by agreement, purchase or gift, or may lease or agree to undertake to control and maintain for a term of years, lands located within the county owned by the incorporated city or town.

(b) Gifts of land, buildings or money may be accepted for specific maintenance or establishment of park and recreational areas.

(c) The county governments of this State may execute and deliver, in proper form, a lease, concession agreement, easement, or license agreement for any part of the public lands owned by them, including park land and land held in a public trust. The demise and lease of such lands, including public parks, may be upon such conditions and for such rentals as the county government deems advisable for the public good, provided that the demise and lease of public park lands shall be limited to recreational purposes and related activities. Whoever leases any of the lands under any restrictions or conditions of a county government and fails to comply with the restrictions or conditions set forth in the lease with the government forfeits the leasehold interest granted by the lease.
9 Del. C. § 4632 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4632
§ Â
        4632. Other proceedings by resolution.
Status: in_force

All matters in connection with the authorization, sale and issuance of the bonds or notes not specifically required to be provided in the bond resolution may be determined or provided by subsequent resolutions adopted by the affirmative votes of at least the majority of the members of the county government.
9 Del. C. § 506 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter I / Section 506
§ Â
        506. Division of Highways data.
Status: in_force

(a) Immediately after the determination by the county government and the Division of Highways of the State Department of Transportation (Division) that the community in question meets the requirements of a suburban community specified in § 501(5) of this title, the Division, if such streets are to be maintained by the State, or the county, if such streets are not to be maintained by the State, shall advise the owners of such community of the requirements of that respective governmental agency. The owners shall be required to prepare and submit such surveys, plans, specifications and estimates of the cost of the improvement or improvements planned for such community.

(b) The Division or county may within its discretion prepare such surveys, plans, specifications and estimates as may be required on the owners behalf and may charge such owners reasonable costs for services provided. In no case shall the Division or the county provide or extend other than minimal costs or services to the owners of such community.

(c) In the preparation and submittal of surveys, plans, specifications and estimates of the cost of such improvements, the Division or county shall confer with the regional planning commission or department of planning of the county in which the suburban community is situated, if the county has a regional planning commission or department of planning. In no event shall the width of the right-of-way in such community be less than 10 feet.
9 Del. C. § 4524 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter II / Section 4524
§ Â
        4524. Form of monition.
Status: in_force

The monition shall be in substantially the following form:

“To all persons having or claiming to have any title, interest or lien upon the within described premises, take warning that unless the judgment for the service charges stated herein is paid within 20 days after the date hereof or within such period of 20 days, evidence of the payment of service charges herein claimed shall be filed in the office of the prothonotary, which evidence shall be in the form of a receipted service charge bill or duplicate thereof, bearing date prior to the filing of the lien in the office of the prothonotary for the county where the property is located, the tax collecting authority may proceed to sell the property herein mentioned or described for the purpose of collecting the judgment for the service charges herein stated, including accrued penalties and all costs incurred in the collection process.
9 Del. C. § 8335 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 83 / Subchapter I / Section 8335
§ Â
        8335. Assessment procedures.
Status: in_force

(a) The assessor in valuing land which qualifies as land actively devoted to agricultural, horticultural or forestry use under the tests prescribed by this section, and as to which the owner thereof has made timely application for valuation, assessment and taxation under this section for the tax year in issue, shall consider only those indicia of value of such land as established by the State Farmland Evaluation Advisory Committee.

(b) In determining the total area of land actively devoted to agricultural, horticultural or forest use there shall be included the area of all land under barns, sheds, silos, cribs, greenhouses and like structures, lakes, dams, ponds, streams, irrigation ditches and like facilities, but land under, and such additional land as may be actually used in connection with the farmhouse, shall be excluded in determining such total area.

(c) All structures which are located on land in agricultural, horticultural or forest use and the farmhouse and the land on which the farmhouse is located, together with the additional land used in connection therewith, shall be valued, assessed and taxed by the same standards, methods and procedures as other taxable structures and other land in the taxing district.

(d) When land in agricultural use and being valued, assessed and taxed under the provisions of this chapter, is applied to a use other than agriculture, it shall be subject to additional taxes, hereinafter referred to as roll-back taxes, in an amount equal to the difference, if any, between the taxes paid or payable on the basis of the valuation and the assessment authorized hereunder and the taxes that would have been paid or payable had the land been valued, assessed and taxed as other land in the taxing district, in the current tax year immediately preceding, in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder.

(1) If in the tax year in which a change in use of land occurs the land was not valued, assessed and taxed under this chapter, then such land shall be subject to roll-back taxes in the following manner. If the change of the use of land occurs prior to January 1, 1996, then such land shall be subject to roll-back taxes for the 5 tax years immediately preceding in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder. If the change in use of land occurs between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 1996, then such land shall be subject to roll-back taxes for the 6 tax years immediately preceding in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder. If the change in use of land occurs between January 1, 1997, and December 31, 1997, then such land shall be subject to roll-back taxes for the 7 tax years immediately preceding in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder. If the change in use of land occurs between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 1998, then such land will be subject to roll-back taxes for the 8 tax years immediately preceding in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder. If the change in use of land occurs between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 1999, then such land shall be subject to roll-back taxes for the 9 tax years immediately preceding in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder. If the change in use of land occurs on January 1, 2000, or thereafter, then such land shall be subject to roll-back taxes for the 10 tax years immediately preceding in which the land was valued, assessed and taxed hereunder.

(2) In determining the amounts of the roll-back taxes chargeable on land which has undergone a change in use, the assessor shall for each of the roll-back tax years involved, ascertain:

a. The full and fair value of such land under the valuation standard applicable to other land in the taxing district;

b. The amount of the additional assessment on the land for the particular tax year by deducting the amount of the actual assessment on the land for that year from the amount of the land assessment determined by the assessing authority; and

c. The amount of the roll-back tax for that tax year by multiplying the amount of the additional assessment determined under paragraph (d)(2)b. of this section by the general property tax rate of the taxing district applicable for that tax year.

(3) Roll-back taxes as provided herein shall become payable when the land is applied to a use other than agricultural, horticultural or forestry. The terms “applied to a use other than agriculture” and “change in use” for purposes of this subsection shall include any of the following:

a. The actual use of the land for an activity other than agricultural, horticultural or forestry;

b. The rezoning of the land to a nonagricultural category;

c. The approval of a site plan or issuance of a certificate of occupancy which allows for a nonagricultural usage; and

d. The loss of eligibility for valuation under §§ 8330-8337 of this title.

(4) Notwithstanding anything in this chapter to the contrary, whenever land in agricultural use is applied to a use other than agriculture, and such land is but a portion of a larger tract of land, the remainder of which continues in agricultural use, roll-back taxes as provided herein shall become payable only with respect to the portion of the land which is applied to a use other than agricultural, and the remainder of the land which continues in agricultural use shall remain eligible for valuation under §§ 8330-8337 of this title, provided the criteria for land use set forth under § 8333 of this title continue to be satisfied. The owner of the land which continues in agricultural use shall not be required to apply for eligibility for valuation, and the burden for establishing ineligibility shall rest with the assessing authority.

(5) Roll-back taxes hereunder shall be paid within 90 days of their due date, and payment thereafter shall include a penalty of 6 percent of the amount due for the first month thereafter, and 1 percent of the amount due for each consecutive month until payment is made. The amount due for roll-back tax shall become a lien on the land which was subject to a change in use or applied to a use other than agriculture as of the due date. The school tax component of the roll-back tax shall be paid to the respective school districts which established the tax rates applicable to the lands through a payment first to the appropriate county receiver of taxes, treasurer or director of finance, who collects school taxes. The balance of the roll-back tax shall, when collected by the appropriate county receiver of taxes, treasurer or director of finance, be paid to the Delaware Agricultural Lands Preservation Foundation; provided, however, that 71/2 percent of such balance shall be withheld and paid to the county as a charge for administration. For purposes of this paragraph, the due date shall be the earlier of the date following conversion under paragraph (d)(3) of this section which is established by the respective counties for annual taxes or the date indicated by the county in any special billing for roll-back taxes.

(6) When land in agricultural use and being valued, assessed and taxed under the provisions of this chapter, is acquired for public use by State agencies, whether by condemnation, gift or purchase, and is then applied to a use other than agriculture, that portion of the land which is applied to such other use shall be subject to a payment by the agency in lieu of roll-back taxes, to be paid to the Delaware Agricultural Lands Preservation Foundation. The amount of this payment in lieu shall be determined as if it were the roll-back tax chargeable under this section for the tax year in which the land was acquired by the agency, or the tax year in which the land is applied to such other use, whichever is greater, after first deducting the school tax component of the roll-back tax chargeable for that year. This payment shall be made directly by the agency to the Foundation, after obtaining the assessment information from the appropriate county receiver of taxes, treasurer or director of finance, and shall not be subject to any charge for administration by the county. In all other respects, the land so acquired for such public use shall not be assessed or charged for roll-back or other property taxes by any county, school district or other political subdivision.
9 Del. C. § 2501 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 25 / Section 2501
§ Â
        2501. Definitions.
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context:

(1) “Building” means a structure having a roof and intended to shelter persons, animals, property or a business activity. The word “building” shall be construed to include parts thereof and all equipment therein.

(2) “Building sewer system” means equipment, appliances, pipes, fittings, fixtures and other appurtenances that convey liquid and water-carried waste from the building or structure to a public sewer, private sewer, individual sewage disposal system or other point of disposal.

(3) “Construction,” “construct” or “constructed” means the building, installation, alteration, repair, replacement, maintenance, removal or demolition of a building, structure, mechanical system, fuel gas system, plumbing system, building sewer or similar system, or the components thereof.

(4) “Contractor” means a person engaged in construction activity regulated by the New Castle County Building Code.

(5) “County Council” shall mean the County Council for New Castle County.

(6) “Department of Land Use” shall mean the New Castle County Department of Land Use.

(7) “Fuel gas system” shall mean natural or liquid gas appliances and related accessories, including gas piping extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances.

(8) “Mechanical system” shall mean a system permanently installed and utilized to provide for the control of environmental conditions and related processes within buildings and structures, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and other energy related systems.

(9) “Permit” includes any building permit, license, zoning permit, certificate of occupancy, certificate of use, certificate of completion, subdivision approval and any other official action of government having the effect of permitting construction, occupancy or use.

(10) “Plumbing system” means the equipment, appliances, pipes, fittings, fixtures and other appurtenances in or about a building or structure for bringing in the water supply and removing liquid and water-carried waste.

(11) “Structure” shall mean a man made object having an ascertainable stationary location on land or in water, whether or not affixed to the land.
9 Del. C. § 752 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter IV / Section 752
§ Â
        752. Tax collection warrant and assessment list.
Status: in_force

The board shall execute and deliver its warrant with a duplicate of the assessment list not later than the second Tuesday in May of each year, to the department of finance or receiver of taxes and county treasurer.
9 Del. C. § 8352 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 83 / Subchapter II / Section 8352
§ Â
        8352. Placement permit.
Status: in_force

Every owner of a mobile home shall apply to the board of assessment for a placement permit for each mobile home owned by him or her within 60 days after the mobile home is acquired or moved into this State, whichever is sooner.
9 Del. C. § 904 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 9 / Subchapter I / Section 904
§ Â
        904. Specifications for the humane handling, care and treatment of dogs [Transferred].
Status: in_force

Transferred to § 3044F of Title 16 by 80 Del. Laws, c. 248, § 5, effective May 25, 2016.
9 Del. C. § 8757 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 87 / Subchapter III / Section 8757
§ Â
        8757. Procedure to confirm or set aside sale; second sale.
Status: in_force

Upon the return of any order of sale the Superior Court shall, if real estate is sold, inquire into the circumstances and regularity of the proceedings relative to such sale and either confirm the sale or set it aside. If the Superior Court confirms the sale the sheriff shall deliver to the purchaser a certificate reciting the judgment recovered in the proceedings and the order of sale and setting forth the facts relative to such sale, and the purchaser shall have and be possessed of all rights in and to the real estate, subject to the right of redemption as provided in § 8758 of this title, as the defendant in the proceeding had on July 1 of the year for which the taxes were levied upon, which judgment was recovered in the proceeding, and the Superior Court shall have power to make all necessary orders and rules and to issue all writs which may be necessary to put the purchaser in possession of the real estate without delay. If the sale be set aside another order of sale may issue and be executed in the same manner and with like effect. Upon confirmation of such sale, the sheriff shall pay to the plaintiff the amount of the judgment with interest and costs and shall pay the balance thereof to such persons who were served with notice of such sale as then hold liens upon the lands and premises whether by way of taxes, mortgage, judgment, recognizance or otherwise, in accordance with the priority of their lien and the balance thereof shall be paid to the person who was the owner of the real estate at and immediately before the sale, or the sheriff may, after paying to the plaintiff the amount of the judgment with interest and costs, pay the balance thereof into the Superior Court. No sale shall be confirmed if the owner of the real estate or any person having an interest therein shall pay to the plaintiff or shall pay into the Superior Court for the use of the plaintiff the amount of the judgment together with interest and all costs.
9 Del. C. § 1002 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 10 / Section 1002
§ Â
        1002. Definitions [For application of this section, see 84 Del. Laws, c. 261, Â 16].
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Cemetery” means land or structure used or intended to be used for the interment or entombment of human remains, including facilities used for the final disposition of cremated remains or remains subjected to “natural organic reduction,” as defined under § 3101 of Title 16.

(2) “For-profit cemetery” means any person, partnership, corporation, or business entity operating a cemetery for purposes of generating a profit, specifically excluding churches, religious organizations, any nonprofit entities, and veteran organizations.
9 Del. C. § 3315 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 33 / Section 3315
§ Â
        3315. Special Development District consistency with certified comprehensive plan.
Status: in_force

The use of lands in a Special Development District shall be consistent with the comprehensive plan for the area as certified pursuant to § 9103(f) of Title 29.
9 Del. C. § 8324 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 83 / Subchapter I / Section 8324
§ Â
        8324. Notices to be by mail or by email.
Status: in_force

Any notice required to be given under the provisions of this chapter may be sent by mail or by email when the property owner has provided an e-mail address for notice purposes. The day of the mailing or the e-mailing shall be deemed to be the day of the giving of such notice.
9 Del. C. § 9206 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 92 / Section 9206
§ Â
        9206. Application in Sussex County.
Status: in_force

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to Sussex County. In Sussex County, the provisions of § 7006 of this title shall apply.
9 Del. C. § 570 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter II / Section 570
§ Â
        570. Assessment on real property in suburban community; time for making and basis.
Status: in_force

(a) Not later than 30 days after the date of receipt by the county government of the final contract costs from the county engineer, but in no event later than 8 months after the sale of the bond issue, the county government shall make a special assessment or levy upon all real property of every freeholder in the suburban community which is assessable and taxable. Such assessment shall be made in such a manner that the real property of each freeholder of the community, upon the basis of all front footage within the area to be protected by the improvements, shall equitably bear its pro rata share of the costs of the improvement or improvements. In cases of irregular corner properties, the county engineer shall determine the footage in the area to be protected that shall be considered as front footage. The sum total of all assessments or levies, so made, shall equal the total amount of the final contract cost, together with all interest accruing on the full amount of the bond issue until maturity.

(b) If final contract costs are not determined within the aforementioned 8 month period, the county government shall make a temporary special assessment or levy upon the basis of the contract bid, together with all interest accruing on the full amount of the bond issue until maturity. The temporary special assessment shall be adjusted when final contract costs are known.

(c) If moneys from the general fund of the county government are used as permitted by § 562(c) of this title, the special assessment shall be determined on the basis of final contract costs plus interest. The interest rate in such case shall be the average rate of all interest on bonds issued for similar purposes during the previous calendar year. All interest collected from such special assessments shall be deposited in the special sinking fund account provided for in § 578 of this title.

(d) In making such special assessment or levy the county government shall prepare an assessment roll which shall describe each lot or parcel of real property in the suburban community in such manner that the same may be ascertained and identified and shall show the name or names of the reputed owner or owners thereof and the aggregate amount of the assessment levied upon such lot or parcel of land, and shall file such assessment roll so prepared in the office of the clerk of the county government. Before finally adopting such assessment roll, the county government shall hold a public hearing. Notice of such public hearing shall state that the assessment roll has been completed and filed in the office of the clerk of the county government where it may be examined by any person interested and, that at the time and place fixed for the public hearing, the county government will meet and hear and consider any objections which may be made to such assessment roll. Notice of the public hearing shall be published in a newspaper published within the county and having a general circulation therein, once in each of the 2 weeks immediately preceding the week in which the public hearing is to be held. After holding the public hearing the county government may change or amend the assessment roll as it deems necessary or just and may confirm and adopt the assessment roll as originally proposed or as amended or changed.
9 Del. C. § 4508 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter I / Section 4508
§ Â
        4508. Service charges; amount and application.
Status: in_force

(a) If the County issues bonds under this chapter, the county government shall prescribe and collect reasonable service charges for the services and facilities rendered or afforded by the water systems, the revenues of which are pledged to the payment of such bonds, and shall revise such service charges from time to time whenever necessary.

(b) The service charges prescribed shall be such as will procure revenue at least sufficient:

(1) To pay when due all bonds and interest thereon, for the payment of which such revenue is or shall have been pledged, charged or otherwise encumbered, including reserves therefor; and

(2) To provide for all expenses of operation and maintenance of such water systems, including reserves therefor.

(c) The service charges when collected shall be applied to the payment of the bonds and interest and to the expenses of such operation and maintenance in accordance with the resolutions authorizing the bonds.
9 Del. C. § 6111 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 61 / Section 6111
§ Â
        6111. Real or immovable property; acquisition, lease, rental or disposal.
Status: in_force

(a) The county government may acquire real or immovable property in such amounts as it may find necessary to fulfill the needs of the County.

(b) The county government may enter into a lease or rental agreement with any public or private entity for any real or immovable property of the County.

(c) The county government may dispose of any real or immovable property not needed by the County.
9 Del. C. § 1371F — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter V / Section 1371F
§ Â
        1371F. Assessment of property.
Status: in_force

(a) In the performance of the functions relating to the assessment of property, the Office of Finance shall exercise the assessment functions assigned to the Board of Assessment Review prior to May 26, 1965. To this end, not later than February 15 of each year, the Office of Finance shall prepare and present to the Board of Assessment Review a copy of the assessment roll for the year. The Office of Finance shall determine the form of the assessment roll. The County Council of New Castle County shall by ordinance establish the dates during which appeals from assessments of the Office of Finance to the Board of Assessment Review may be heard.

(b) Not later than April 30 of each year, the Office of Finance shall certify to the Chief Financial Officer a true and correct assessment roll for the year. Not later than May 31 of each year, the Chief Financial Officer shall certify to the County Council the total value of all property in the County and the total value of all property which has been assessed and is subject to taxation.

(c) The Office of Finance shall determine by rule, the form, number of copies, and other details concerning the keeping of records relating to assessment of real property and improvements thereupon. The Office of Finance shall develop a suitable system for the identification of all real property within the County, both that which is subject to taxation and that which is exempt from taxation. Such system must be in a form that readily permits the subdivision of property, or the reassembly of property, without loss of control thereof for purposes of assessment.

(d) Notwithstanding any provision of this title, for any fiscal year in which the County Council of New Castle County proposes to implement a general reassessment of property, the County Council may by ordinance establish appropriate and reasonable time periods for the filing of exemption applications; submission, inspection, and certification of assessment rolls; notices of assessments; appeals from such assessments; and any other requirements relating to the implementation of the general reassessment. The County Council may not extend any such period more than 30 days beyond that otherwise established in this title. This authorization applies only to the fiscal year in which the general reassessment is implemented. In each fiscal year thereafter, the procedures specified in this title must be followed.
9 Del. C. § 5514 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 55 / Section 5514
§ Â
        5514. Bonds not to constitute  general obligation debt.
Status: in_force

Bonds issued under this chapter are a special obligation of the County and may not constitute a general obligation debt of the County, or a pledge of the County’s full faith and credit or taxing power. Bonds are nonrecourse to property owners who purchase property in a special development district. Property owners who purchase property in a special development district shall only be responsible for the payment of ad valorem real property taxes and special taxes levied by the Levy Court pursuant to this chapter.
9 Del. C. § 553 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter II / Section 553
§ Â
        553. Petition to county government for improvements; who may petition; contents.
Status: in_force

(a) The freeholders of a suburban community owning 50 percent or more of the front footage of property to be protected by the contemplated installation of fire hydrants and necessary water mains may present a petition to the county government.

(b) The petition shall:

(1) State that in the opinion of the signers of the petition, the suburban community would be improved by the installation of fire hydrants with adequate water mains; and

(2) Request that the county government proceed in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter to issue bonds to provide the money for the improvements.

(c) Each petition, when presented, shall have attached to it, as a part thereof, the following data:

(1) A drawing showing the street layout, placement of fire hydrants and water mains and boundaries of the area to be protected by the installation thereof;

(2) A list of the names and post-office addresses of all freeholders in the suburban community, as they appear on the records of the board of assessment of the county in which the suburban community is located, and the street frontage in feet owned by each of such freeholders;

(3) A proposal or suggested contract or contracts, including plans, specifications and estimates of cost of the contemplated improvements; and

(4) A provision for service charges, if any, to the residents of the suburban community as tentatively accepted, approved or agreed to by the petitioners and the owners or operators of the local water distribution system chosen to install the improvements or their agents.
9 Del. C. § 5103 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 51 / Section 5103
§ Â
        5103. Light tax; administration of fund; surplus.
Status: in_force

The Department of Finance shall receive all light taxes collected, shall keep them in a separate account, and shall pay them out only upon orders signed by the President of the county government and approved by the Director of Finance. They shall receive no additional compensation for the performance of any duty required of them or any of them under this section. If, after payment of all contracts entered into pursuant to this chapter, there remains a surplus in the light account, the surplus shall be applied to reduce the light tax rate for the succeeding taxable year.
9 Del. C. § 336 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 3 / Subchapter II / Section 336
§ Â
        336. Special meetings.
Status: in_force

(a) Special meetings of any governing body may be held at the direction of its president or any 2 members.

(b) The clerk of the peace shall notify each elected official of a county governing body of any special meeting. In New Castle County the Clerk of Council shall notify all members of County Council of any special meeting.

(c) Special meetings shall be held at the usual place of meeting. Any lawful business may be transacted at a special meeting. In New Castle County special meetings may be held at any public location in New Castle County in accordance with Council rules.
9 Del. C. § 9204 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 92 / Section 9204
§ Â
        9204. Employment of extra clerks.
Status: in_force

(a) Except as provided otherwise by law, the Resident Judge of New Castle County may authorize any county officer in his or her County, whose office is a constitutional office, to employ clerks in addition to those specified by law when such Judge deems such employment necessary for the proper performance of the public work required of such officer. In Kent County, the county government may fix the number of clerks employed.

(b) Any additional clerks employed under the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, shall receive the same compensation as is fixed by law for the other clerks performing like or similar services, and shall be paid in like manner.
9 Del. C. § 612 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 6 / Subchapter II / Section 612
§ Â
        612. Powers and duties.
Status: in_force

(a) The commission shall provide, maintain, develop and promote recreational areas, facilities and programs throughout the county in which it is situated for the areas forming suburban park communities.

(b) The commission may employ such experts, trained personnel, staff, and if and when 4 or more suburban park communities are established as hereinafter provided, a director of recreation, as the funds provided therefor may permit. It may also employ such supervisors and provide for such recreational promotion as the funds provided under § 654 of this title may permit.

(c) It may initiate, adopt and direct, or cause to be conducted, a comprehensive program of recreation in schools and parks or other lands and buildings either publicly or privately owned and it may buy, sell, acquire or make use of all equipment necessary for such a program as the funds provided therefor may permit. It shall generally supervise, plan and maintain a program of recreation.

(d) The commission may use parks, playgrounds or park areas or any other lands or buildings for recreational purposes.

(e) The commission shall use all expert advice and information available from the state, federal, or other officials, departments and agencies, and shall furnish other agencies, including incorporated communities in the county, the information available.
9 Del. C. § 1120 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 11 / Subchapter II / Section 1120
§ Â
        1120. Power to appoint Chief Administrative Officer and Department Directors.
Status: in_force

(a) The County Executive shall appoint a Chief Administrative Officer who shall serve at the pleasure of the County Executive. The Chief Administrative Officer shall be qualified by education, training and experience for the duties to be performed.

(b) The County Executive, with the advice and consent of the County Council, shall appoint the General Manager of Land Use, the General Manager of Special Services, the General Manager of Community Services, the Chief Procurement Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Human Resources Officer, the County Attorney, as well as the heads of any subsequently created departments, who shall each serve at the pleasure of the County Executive.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of state or county law, on February 9, 2005, any persons then serving in any of the positions enumerated in this section shall cease to be classified service members of the New Castle County Merit System, but may thereafter continue to serve at the pleasure of the County Executive.
9 Del. C. § 4659 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4659
§ Â
        4659. Legal effect of debt statement.
Status: in_force

After the issuance of any bonds or notes in reliance on any debt statement issued by the County, the accuracy and sufficiency of such debt statement shall not be contested by any suit, action or proceeding relating to the validity of such bonds or notes and such bonds or notes shall be presumed to be within all debt or other limitations prescribed by any law of this State.
9 Del. C. § 3302 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 33 / Section 3302
§ Â
        3302. Special taxes authorized; purpose; requirements and restrictions.
Status: in_force

(a) Subject to the provisions of this section, and for the purpose stated in subsection (b) of this section, the county may:

(1) Create a special development district;

(2) Levy ad valorem or special taxes; and

(3) Issue bonds and other obligations.

(b) The purpose of the authority granted under subsection (a) of this section is to provide financing, refinancing, or reimbursement for:

(1) The cost of the design, construction, establishment, extension, alteration, maintenance, or acquisition of adequate storm drainage systems, sewers, water systems, roads, bridges, culverts, tunnels, streets, traffic signals, signage, sidewalks, lighting, parking, parks and recreation facilities, open space, farm land preservation, fire protection facilities, public safety facilities, paramedic facilities, libraries, transit facilities, solid waste facilities, identifying monuments, landscaping of entrances and medians, and other improvements, including infrastructure improvements as authorized, whether situated within the special development district or outside the special development district if the improvements, including infrastructure improvements provide service or benefit to the property within the special development district, for the development and utilization of the land, each with respect to any defined geographic region within the county; and

(2) Any cost in which the proceeds of a bond issued pursuant to Chapter 32 of this title and as defined in § 3205 of this title may be used and any other cost associated with tax increment financing undertaken with respect to TIF Districts pursuant to Chapter 32 of this title.
9 Del. C. § 1303 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter I / Section 1303
§ Â
        1303. Planning Board.
Status: in_force

(a) The Planning Board shall consist of 9 members. The County Executive, with the advice and consent of County Council, shall appoint 8 members who shall serve for terms of 3 years, provided that the terms of at least 2 members shall expire each year, at least 1 term to expire on January 31, and 1 term to expire on July 31.

(b) The County Executive, with the advice and consent of County Council, shall appoint 1 member who shall be chairperson and who shall serve at the pleasure of the County Executive.

(c) The compensation of the members of the Planning Board shall be determined by the County Council of New Castle County.
9 Del. C. § 701 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter I / Section 701
§ Â
        701. Purpose.
Status: in_force

(a) The purpose of this chapter is to provide a procedure whereby any territory so lying as to form 1 connected area (no portion of which shall be already included in an incorporated park district established under the provisions of this chapter) may be incorporated as a park district to establish and maintain parks and other recreational facilities and pay for the same through district bonds, the interest and principal of such bonds to be collected by taxation of the district benefited.

(b) The provisions of this chapter shall apply only to New Castle County.
9 Del. C. § 8138 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 81 / Subchapter II / Section 8138
§ Â
        8138. Rules and regulations.
Status: in_force

The Department of Finance of New Castle County or Board of Assessments for Kent County or Board of Assessments for Sussex County may promulgate such rules and regulations and prescribe such forms as they shall deem necessary to implement this subchapter. They may, in their discretion, eliminate the necessity for sworn application, in which event all declarations by the claimant shall be considered as if made under oath and the claimants, as to false declarations, shall be subject to the penalties as provided by law for perjury.
9 Del. C. § 560 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter II / Section 560
§ Â
        560. Certification of result of election; retention of ballots.
Status: in_force

Promptly after the holding of the election, the judge of election shall tabulate the ballots and certify the results to the county government under the judge’s hand and seal. The ballots shall be retained in the safekeeping of the county government for 1 year before being destroyed.
9 Del. C. § 1336 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter II / Section 1336
§ Â
        1336. Establishment of school crossing guard unit for New Castle County.
Status: in_force

Upon the authorization of the County Council, the Police Department of New Castle County may appoint and maintain, within each school district, after approval of each school district in New Castle County, school crossing guards, in such number as may, in the judgment of the school district, be necessary for the safe passage of school children over the public streets and highways of New Castle County outside the City of Wilmington.
9 Del. C. § 8742 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 87 / Subchapter III / Section 8742
§ Â
        8742. Where attachment proceedings brought.
Status: in_force

(a) Legal proceedings under § 8741 of this title to collect unpaid taxes may be instituted in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(b) The proceedings shall be either by attachment, as provided in this subchapter, or by any other procedure authorized by law.
9 Del. C. § 5504 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 55 / Section 5504
§ Â
        5504. Bonds payable from  special fund; complementary powers of governing body; proceeds.
Status: in_force

(a) Bonds shall be payable from the special fund required under § 5505 of this title.

(b) If the County issues bonds under this section, the Levy Court may also:

(1) Establish sinking funds for such bonds;

(2) Establish debt service reserve funds for such bonds;

(3) Pledge other assets and revenues towards the payments of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on such bonds; or

(4) Provide for bond insurance or any other type of credit enhancement or liquidity support of such bonds.

(c) All proceeds received from any bonds issued and sold shall be applied solely to pay costs, including:

(1) Costs of design, construction, establishment, extension, alteration, or acquisition of improvements, including infrastructure improvements;

(2) Costs of issuing bonds;

(3) Payment of the principal and interest on loans, including development loans, money advances, or any indebtedness for any of the purposes stated in § 5502(b)(1) and (2) of this title, including the refunding of bonds previously issued under this chapter;

(4) Funding of a debt service reserve fund or payment of interest prior to, during, or for a limited period of time after construction; and

(5) Purposes described in § 5502(b)(1) and (2) of this title.
9 Del. C. § 9617 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 96 / Section 9617
§ Â
        9617. Fees in New Castle and Sussex Counties.
Status: in_force

The fees of the Recorders of Deeds in New Castle and Sussex Counties shall be established by ordinance.
9 Del. C. § 740 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter III / Section 740
§ Â
        740. Governing board; oath.
Status: in_force

Each member of the governing board of any park district before entering upon the duties of each such member’s office shall take and subscribe an oath to well and faithfully discharge the member’s duties, which oath shall be filed with the secretary of the board. The members of such governing board shall constitute the corporate authority for such district and a majority of such members shall constitute a quorum for said board and any meeting thereof. The members of such governing board shall act as such without compensation, and each member of the board shall be a legal voter of and reside within such district.
9 Del. C. § 4529 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter II / Section 4529
§ Â
        4529. Petition by purchasers for deed of conveyance.
Status: in_force

If the owner of the property or the owner’s legal representatives fail to redeem the property as provided in this subchapter, the purchaser of the property or the purchaser’s legal representatives, successors or assigns may present a petition to the Superior Court setting forth the appropriate facts in conformity with this subchapter and pray that the Superior Court make an order directing the sheriff, then in office, to execute, acknowledge and deliver a deed conveying the title to the property to the petitioner; and thereupon the Superior Court shall have power, after a hearing upon the petition, to issue an order directing the sheriff to execute, acknowledge and deliver a deed as prayed for in the petition. A description of the property as the same shall appear upon the assessment rolls, and a description by metes and bounds where obtainable shall be a sufficient description in any such deed.
9 Del. C. § 4730 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 47 / Subchapter II / Section 4730
§ Â
        4730. Annual budgeting.
Status: in_force

(a) The annual amounts required for garbage collection contracts entered into pursuant to the provisions of this subchapter shall be included in the annual budget request of the office of County Engineer under separate headings for each garbage collection district. After levying the garbage collection tax, the county government shall deliver a separate tax collection warrant together with a list of taxables for each garbage collection district to the Receiver of Taxes and County Treasurer commanding him or her to collect from the persons named in the said list their garbage collection tax and its amount.

(b) Should a garbage collection district be formed and a garbage collection contract awarded after the commencement of any fiscal year, the county government shall include in the next annual budget an amount sufficient to reimburse the general fund for the expenditure during the last fiscal year as well as an amount sufficient to pay the contract cost for the coming fiscal year. Any contract awarded after the commencement of a fiscal year shall expire at the beginning of the next fiscal year.
9 Del. C. § 807 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 8 / Subchapter II / Section 807
§ Â
        807. Library districts â Tax levy.
Status: in_force

After the Kent County Levy Court has fixed the district library tax rate or rates, it shall levy the district library tax or taxes on the real property located within each library district according to such tax rate or rates applied to the most recent assessment list in the County. The district library tax or taxes shall be in addition to and levied at the same time as the annual county tax.
9 Del. C. § 9120 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 91 / Section 9120
§ Â
        9120. Bonds of officers in Sussex County.
Status: in_force

Every public officer of Sussex County who is required by law to give a bond for the faithful performance of his or her duties to be approved by the judges of the Superior Court or Court of Chancery shall execute such bond before entering upon the duties of his or her office with sufficient sureties to be approved by any Judge of the Superior Court, which bond shall afterwards be submitted to the Judge of the Superior Court or the Chancellor, as the case may be, for approval as now provided by law. The bond shall have all the force and effect now given by law to such official bonds. The Judges or Chancellor may at any time require additional surety.
9 Del. C. § 1361 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter V / Section 1361
§ Â
        1361. Office of Administrative Services; functions.
Status: in_force

The Office of Administrative Services, managed by the Chief Procurement Officer, who shall be qualified for the position by education, experience and training, may perform the following functions:

(1) The Purchasing Section is responsible for obtaining goods and services for public purposes according to the laws and procedures intended to provide for the economical expenditures of public funds.

(2) The Information Systems Section provides technical leadership to the County by assisting the departments in meeting their business requirements through equipment and application software.

(3) The Mail Distribution and Printing Section provides full mail service and in-house printing services to all County agencies.
9 Del. C. § 6109 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 61 / Section 6109
§ Â
        6109. Operation of Courthouse.
Status: in_force

The county government shall have full and complete jurisdiction and control over the Courthouse and Courthouse Annex of Sussex County and over all personal property and equipment used in connection with the property committed to its jurisdiction; and, in this connection, the county government shall have and assume all of the jurisdiction, powers and duties heretofore exercised by or vested in the Board of Trustees pertaining to said buildings.

All contracts and engagements for the erection or repair of said buildings or for the purchase of equipment and supplies, where the probable amount shall be in excess of $5,000, shall be submitted to public bidding after due advertising and shall be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, unless for reasons deemed expedient by the county government.
9 Del. C. § 6806 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 68 / Section 6806
§ Â
        6806. Assistance to Commission by County.
Status: in_force

The county government may, from time to time, upon request of the Commission and for the purpose of special surveys, assign or detail to the Commission any members of the administrative staffs or agencies of the County, or direct any such staff or agency to make for the Commission special surveys or studies requested by the Commission.
9 Del. C. § 5507 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 55 / Section 5507
§ Â
        5507. Adoption of ordinance  to implement authority.
Status: in_force

(a) In order to implement the authority conferred upon it by this chapter to issue bonds, the Levy Court shall adopt an ordinance that:

(1) Specifies and describes the proposed undertaking and states that it has complied with § 5505 of this title;

(2) Specifies the maximum principal amount of bonds to be issued;

(3) Specifies the maximum rate or rates of interest for the bonds; and

(4) Agrees to a covenant to levy upon all real property within the special development district, ad valorem taxes or special taxes in rate and amount at least sufficient in each year in which any of the bonds are outstanding to provide for the payment of the principal of, premium, if any, and the interest on the bonds.

(b) The ordinance may specify or may authorize the chief financial officer or County Administrator to specify any of the following, as the chief financial officer or County Administrator deems appropriate, to effect the financing of the proposed undertaking:

(1) The actual principal amount of the bonds to be issued;

(2) The actual rate or rates of interest for the bonds;

(3) The manner in which and the terms upon which the bonds are to be sold;

(4) The manner in which and the times and places that the interest on the bonds is to be paid;

(5) The time or times that the bonds may be executed, issued, and delivered;

(6) The form and tenor of the bonds and the denominations in which the bonds may be issued;

(7) The manner in which and the times and places that the principal of the bonds is to be paid, within the limitations set forth in this chapter;

(8) Provisions pursuant to which any and all of the bonds may be called for redemption prior to their stated maturity dates; or

(9) Any other provisions not inconsistent with this chapter as shall be determined by the Levy Court to be necessary or desirable to effect the financing of the proposed undertaking.

(c) An ordinance authorizing the bonds provided for under this chapter, an ordinance, resolution, or order passed or adopted in furtherance of the required ordinance, the bonds, the designation of a special development district, or the levy of a special ad valorem tax or special tax may not be subject to any referendum by reason of any other state or local law.

(d) The ordinance authorizing the bonds required under this section, any ordinance, resolution, or order passed or adopted in furtherance of the required ordinance, the bonds, or the levy of a special ad valorem tax or special tax shall be subject to the request of the landowners as specified under § 5503(a) of this title.
9 Del. C. § 509 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter I / Section 509
§ Â
        509. Place, time and manner of voting; judge of election.
Status: in_force

The election shall be held in the offices of the county governing body in the county in which the suburban community is situated, and the polls shall be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. of the day of the election. The voting shall be by printed ballot, which shall give the voter an opportunity clearly to indicate the voter’s consent or objection to the issuance of bonds for the improvements contemplated. Absentee ballots may be permitted and managed in such a manner as prescribed by the county government. The clerk of the peace shall act as judge of the election.
9 Del. C. § 4619 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4619
§ Â
        4619. Extension of the district.
Status: in_force

The district may be extended so as to include territory not previously included within its boundaries in the same manner as hereinbefore prescribed for the original establishment of a district. The cost of the extension shall include all the costs and expenses occasioned by reason of such extension and in addition thereto such proportion of the cost of the system of the original district as the county government shall determine.
9 Del. C. § 7006 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 70 / Section 7006
§ Â
        7006. Personnel system.
Status: in_force

(a) Personnel system. — The County Administrator is responsible for administering the personnel system of Sussex County.

All appointments and promotions of county officers and employees under the direction of the County Administrator shall be made solely on the basis of merit and fitness demonstrated by examination or other evidence of competence.

(b) Personnel Board. — There shall be a Personnel Board consisting of 3 members appointed by the county government for terms of 3 years from among the qualified voters of the County. Members of the Board shall hold no other county office. The County Administrator shall provide necessary staff assistance for the Personnel Board.

(c) Personnel rules. — The County Administrator shall prepare personnel rules and amendments thereto. The County Administrator shall refer such proposed rules to the Personnel Board which shall report to the Administrator its recommendations thereon. When approved by the Administrator, the rules shall be proposed to the county government, and the county government may by ordinance adopt them with or without amendment. These rules shall provide for:

(1) The classification of all county positions, based on the duties, authority and responsibility of each position, with adequate provision for reclassification of any position, whenever warranted by changed circumstances;

(2) A pay plan for all county positions;

(3) Methods for determining the merit and fitness of candidates for appointment or promotion;

(4) The policies and procedures regulating reduction in force and removal of employees;

(5) The hours of work, attendance regulations and provisions for sick and vacation leave;

(6) The policies and procedures governing persons holding provisional appointments;

(7) The policies and procedures governing relationships with employee organizations;

(8) Grievance procedures, including procedures for the hearing of grievances by the Personnel Board, which may render advisory opinions based on its findings to the County Administrator with a copy to the aggrieved employee; and

(9) Other practices and procedures necessary to the administration of the county personnel system.

Employment or dismissal of county employees shall be subject to the approval of the county government, in its discretion.
9 Del. C. § 4116 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter II / Section 4116
§ Â
        4116. Sinking fund.
Status: in_force

The county government may create a sinking fund for public buildings, public improvements, and public works generally, and for such purposes may open a special bank account in the name of the Receiver of Taxes and County Treasurer of the County and may deposit therein such sums at such times as the county government deems advisable. The money in such fund shall be paid out upon warrants as other county moneys are paid out according to law, at such times and in such amounts and for the above stated purposes or for any of such purposes, as the county government shall determine.
9 Del. C. § 712 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter II / Section 712
§ Â
        712. Calling election; appointment of election officials.
Status: in_force

(a) Upon the filing of such organization petition the county government, by ordinance or resolution, may order an election to be held in such proposed district, and in such order fix the time, not less than 30 days nor more than 60 days after the date of filing of the petition, at which an election may be held to determine such question and to elect 7 commissioners as provided in this chapter.

(b) The county government shall fix as many polling places within the boundaries of such proposed district as would be provided in a primary election and shall name the persons to act as judges and clerks at such election.

(c) Thereupon the clerk of the county government or clerk of the peace shall give 20 days notice of said election by publishing 1 notice of the same in at least 1 newspaper, if any be published in said proposed district, or if none be published in said proposed district, then in 1 or more newspapers of general circulation in the proposed district, or if there be no newspaper of general circulation in said proposed district, then by causing said notice to be posted in 5 public places within such proposed district.
9 Del. C. § 2909 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 29 / Section 2909
§ Â
        2909. Additional remedies.
Status: in_force

The imposition of the penalties or enforcement prescribed in this chapter or by the rules or requirements as promulgated by the county council shall not preclude the Attorney General, county attorney or code enforcement constable from instituting appropriate actions or proceedings to prevent, enjoin or abate any continuing violation of this chapter.
9 Del. C. § 4104 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter I / Section 4104
§ Â
        4104. Salaries of elected officials of the county governing body.
Status: in_force

(a) In Kent County each of the elected officials of the county governing body shall receive a salary in an amount to be set by ordinance of the Kent County Levy Court.

(b) The salaries of the officials shall be paid in equal semimonthly installments in Kent County by warrants according to the form prescribed by the county government.

(c) Such officials shall not receive any other compensation for services performed by them, or any of them, in the office of elected official.
9 Del. C. § 4131 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter III / Section 4131
§ Â
        4131. Fire companies.
Status: in_force

The county government shall appropriate annually, and on May 1 of each year shall pay, the sum of $250 to each regularly organized and motorized fire company in Kent County, as certified by the Secretary of Kent County Volunteer Firemen’s Association, for the maintenance and upkeep of their fire equipment.
9 Del. C. § 1305 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter I / Section 1305
§ Â
        1305. Adoption and effectuation of comprehensive plan.
Status: in_force

(a) After preparation of the comprehensive development plan by the Department and approval by the Planning Board, the plan shall be reviewed by the County Executive and presented to the County Council. The County Council shall hold public hearings on the proposed plan or portions thereof in the same manner and under the same procedure required for the consideration and adoption of ordinances. The County Council may adopt all or any portions of the comprehensive development plan.

(b) After adoption of all or portions of the comprehensive development plan by the County Council, the plan shall be viewed as a document expressing the general policies and intentions of the County Council with respect to the future development of the County. It shall not have the force and effect of a law or ordinance. After adoption of all or parts of the plan by the County Council, any proposed action of the County Council relating to:

(1) The location, opening, vacation, extension, widening, narrowing or enlargement of any public ground, pierhead or watercourse or street;

(2) The location, erection, demolition, removal or sale of any public structure; or

(3) The adoption, repeal or amendment of an official map, subdivision and land development ordinance, or zoning ordinance

shall be taken in compliance with the following requirements: (i) The proposed actions shall be submitted to the department for recommendations, provided that the County Council may act without benefit of the Department’s recommendations if they are not submitted within 45 days, and (ii) the County Council shall find that the proposed actions are in accordance with the spirit and intent of the formally adopted portions of the comprehensive development plan before final action shall be taken by the County Council. When the County Council finds that a proposed action is not in accordance with the spirit and intent of the formally adopted portions of the comprehensive development plan it shall amend the plan to make the action taken and the comprehensive development plan consistent with each other.
9 Del. C. § 2319 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 23 / Section 2319
§ Â
        2319. Grants or loans from federal, state or interstate agencies.
Status: in_force

The County Council may accept grants or loans of money, labor, materials, equipment or technical assistance from agencies of the federal or state government or from interstate agencies established by law, to accomplish the purposes of this chapter and may pay the interest and amortization on such loans in the same manner as is authorized in this chapter for bonds.
9 Del. C. § 9401 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 94 / Section 9401
§ Â
        9401. Oath and bond.
Status: in_force

Every clerk of the peace, before entering upon the clerk’s official duties, shall take and subscribe the oath of office prescribed by the Delaware Constitution, and shall give bond as required by § 9114 of this title.
9 Del. C. § 4503 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter I / Section 4503
§ Â
        4503. Water system within city or town.
Status: in_force

No water system, or any part thereof, shall be constructed or maintained within the boundaries of any city or town situated in the County without the consent of such city or town, except that transmission lines or mains may be constructed or maintained without consent. The consent shall be given only by an ordinance adopted by the council or other governing body of the city or town in question, but once given shall be irrevocable.
9 Del. C. § 8606 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 86 / Section 8606
§ Â
        8606. Notice of time and place for collection in hundreds and districts.
Status: in_force

Each receiver of taxes and county treasurer shall give notice of the times when and places where such person or such person’s deputy shall sit to collect taxes in at least 1 newspaper published at such person’s county seat and in newspapers in the various hundreds or districts if there be any. This section shall not apply with respect to New Castle County.
9 Del. C. § 2654 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 26 / Subchapter II / Section 2654
§ Â
        2654. Areas under this subchapter.
Status: in_force

A county shall exercise authority under this subchapter for the total unincorporated area under its jurisdiction.
9 Del. C. § 6108 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 61 / Section 6108
§ Â
        6108. Return Day observance.
Status: in_force

The county government may appropriate and pay funds to Sussex County Return Day, Inc., a Delaware corporation, to defray the costs of the observance of Return Day at Georgetown.
9 Del. C. § 717 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter II / Section 717
§ Â
        717. Fixing terms of commissioners.
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, within 30 days after declaration of the result of the election to organize a district, the 7 persons elected as commissioners shall meet and decide by lot the term for which each shall hold office. Three shall serve for 6 years; 2 shall serve for 4 years; and 2 shall serve for 2 years, respectively, from the date in the next even year an election would otherwise be held, as specified in § 719 of this title or until their successors shall be duly elected and qualified. It is the purpose of this section that the first members of the board shall serve until the date an election would otherwise be held in the next even year, in addition to their 6-, 4- and 2-year terms.
9 Del. C. § 8408 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 84 / Subchapter I / Section 8408
§ Â
        8408. Duty to turn over records and moneys to successor.
Status: in_force

(a) All records, books, papers, stubs, accounts, of whatever kind or character, appertaining to the office of receiver of taxes and county treasurer, shall belong to the county and upon the expiration of the term of office of any receiver of taxes and county treasurer, he or she shall turn over the same to his or her successor, or to the county government, together with all public moneys in his or her hands.

(b) Any receiver of taxes and county treasurer who, upon demand made, fails to comply with the provisions of this section shall be fined not more than $1,000, or imprisoned not more than 1 year, or both.
9 Del. C. § 4907 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 49 / Subchapter I / Section 4907
§ Â
        4907. Tentative zoning plan; preparation of by Commission.
Status: in_force

The Zoning Commission shall make, as promptly as possible, for certification to the county government, a zoning plan or plans, including both the full text of the zoning regulation or regulations and the maps, and representing the recommendations of the Zoning Commission for the regulation by districts or zones of the location, height, bulk, and size of buildings and other structures, percentage of lot which may be occupied, the size of lots, courts, and other open spaces, the density and distribution of population, for the location and use of buildings and structures for trade, industry, residence, recreation, public activities or other purposes, and for the uses of land for trade, industry, recreation, public activities, soil conservation, water supply conservation or other similar purposes.
9 Del. C. § 7109 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 71 / Section 7109
§ Â
        7109. Additional remedies.
Status: in_force

The imposition of the penalties or enforcement prescribed in this chapter or by the ordinances, rules, or regulations as promulgated by the Sussex County Council shall not preclude the Attorney General, county attorney, Sussex County Council’s designee or code enforcement constable from instituting appropriate actions or proceedings to prevent, enjoin, or abate any continuing violation of this chapter.
9 Del. C. § 1125 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 11 / Subchapter III / Section 1125
§ Â
        1125. Local service functions; New Castle County property tax rates in municipalities.
Status: repealed

(a) In determining the New Castle County property tax rate for real property in a municipality, New Castle County shall consider the degree that a local service function is fully or partially performed or financially supported by the municipality instead of New Castle County under § 1102 of this title.

(b) New Castle County shall establish a property tax rate for real property in a municipality based on the degree of any local service function fully or partially performed or financially supported by the municipality instead of New Castle County under § 1102 of this title.

(c) A property tax rate for real property in a municipality does not have to be either of the following:

(1) The same as a property tax rate for property located in other municipalities or in the unincorporated area of New Castle County.

(2) The same as a property tax rate set in a prior year.

(d) [Repealed.]
9 Del. C. § 9105 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 91 / Section 9105
§ Â
        9105. County offices; days open; penalties.
Status: in_force

(a) County offices shall be open each day except legal holidays, Saturdays and Sundays.

(b) If a county officer refuses or neglects to attend at his or her office for the transaction of business, as required in subsection (a) of this section, the county officer shall be fined $8.00 for every such offense.

(c) A deputy of any county officer may attend for the performance of such services as are strictly ministerial.
9 Del. C. § 3303 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 33 / Section 3303
§ Â
        3303. Issuance and sale of bonds; section self-executing.
Status: in_force

(a) In addition to other powers the county may have, and notwithstanding the provisions of any other public local law, or public general law, the county may borrow money by issuing and selling bonds for the purposes stated in § 3302(b) of this title, if a request to the county is made by both:

(1) The owners of at least 2/3 of the assessed valuation of the real property located within the special development district; and

(2) At least 2/3 of the owners of the acreage located within the special development district, provided that:

a. Multiple owners of a single parcel are treated as a single owner; and

b. A single owner of multiple parcels is treated as 1 owner.

(b) This section is self-executing and does not require the county to enact legislation to exercise the powers granted under this section.
9 Del. C. § 8779 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 87 / Subchapter IV / Section 8779
§ Â
        8779. Payment of excess from proceeds to owner.
Status: in_force

After satisfying the tax due and the costs and expenses of sale from the proceeds of sale under this subchapter, the amount remaining shall be paid at once to the owner of the land, or upon the refusal of the owner to accept the same, or if the owner is unknown or cannot be found, the amount remaining shall be deposited in some bank in the county either to the credit of the owner, or in a manner by which the fund may be identified.
9 Del. C. § 4138 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter III / Section 4138
§ Â
        4138. Sewer authorization loans.
Status: in_force

The County is authorized to lend, to sewer districts created by the County, funds, other than general funds of the County or funds dedicated to purposes other than the construction or improvement of sewers in the County, any available funds on terms deemed commercially reasonable by the Levy Court.
9 Del. C. § 104 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 1 / Section 104
§ Â
        104. Sussex County boundaries.
Status: in_force

Sussex County comprises that part of the State which is bounded as follows: On the north, by the southerly boundary line of Kent County as described in § 103 of this title; on the east, by the middle line of Delaware Bay from the point where the same is intersected by southerly boundary line of Kent County to the mouth of the Bay, and by the Atlantic Ocean; on the south and west by the State of Maryland.
9 Del. C. § 4912 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 49 / Subchapter I / Section 4912
§ Â
        4912. Zoning coordination and integration.
Status: in_force

The Zoning Commission may cooperate with other planning and zoning commissions within Kent County, and within other counties and states, and with the planning, zoning, legislative and administrative authorities of incorporated or unincorporated municipalities, either within or without such County, with a view to coordinating and integrating the zoning of the County with the planning and zoning of other counties or of municipalities. The Zoning Commission shall also have power to appoint such committee or committees, and adopt such rules for the conduct of its business, as it may deem proper to effect such cooperation or to more expeditiously and effectively perform its functions.
9 Del. C. § 333 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 3 / Subchapter II / Section 333
§ Â
        333. Oath of office.
Status: in_force

The oath or affirmation of office to be taken by an elected official of the county governing body may be administered by the clerk of the peace or any such elected official and an entry thereof shall be made in the minutes of the county governing body.
9 Del. C. § 1525 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 15 / Subchapter II / Section 1525
§ Â
        1525. Creeks or small runs; widening, straightening.
Status: in_force

(a) In case the County Council, upon the advice of the Department of Public Works deems it advisable to widen, straighten or alter the course of any part of any small run or creek in the County, such as Chestnut Run or Little Mill Creek at Forest Park, in Christiana Hundred, the County Council and the Department of Public Works may enter upon any land for the purpose of surveying and locating the changes necessary to widen, straighten or alter the course of any part of such run or creek.

(b) Any person owning land which it will be necessary to procure for such purpose may dedicate the same for such purpose, and the County Council may enter into negotiations with the owner or owners for that purpose, and may secure the necessary conveyance or dedication of the land. The County Council may also purchase the land from the owner or owners thereof upon such terms as the County Council deems advisable. All conveyances and dedications shall be to this State, for the use of New Castle County, and all conveyances, dedications and other papers relating to the acquirement of such land for such purpose shall be and remain a part of the records of the office of the Department of Public Works.

(c) In case the County Council cannot agree with the owner or owners of such lands, the County Council may acquire the same by condemnation in accordance with Chapter 61 of Title 10.
9 Del. C. § 719 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter II / Section 719
§ Â
        719. Terms; election date; notice of election.
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioners shall be elected for 6-year terms in all districts now organized or organized after May 20, 1959, with the exception provided in § 717 of this title as to those first elected.

(b) In all park districts, commissioners shall be elected biennially in even years to take the place of those whose terms expire. Such elections shall take place on the first Tuesday in November of even years.

(c) Commissioners shall serve until their successors are elected and qualified.

(d) Notice of the time and place or places of holding such elections shall be given by the commissioners of the park district by publishing the same once in 1 or more newspapers, if there be any published in the district, at least 10 days prior to the election; if none be published in said district, then in 1 or more newspapers of general circulation in the district; if there be no newspaper of general circulation in the district, then by causing said notice to be posted in 5 public places within the district.
9 Del. C. § 4531 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter II / Section 4531
§ Â
        4531. Petition by owner after redemption for entry on judgment record.
Status: in_force

If the owner of any real estate sold under an order of sale or the owner’s legal representative redeems the real estate, the owner may present to the Superior Court a petition setting forth that fact and thereupon the Superior Court, after hearing and determining the facts set forth in the petition, shall have power to cause to be entered upon the record of the judgment, under which the real estate was sold, a memorandum that the real estate described in the proceedings upon which the judgment was entered has been redeemed. Thereafter the owner shall hold such redeemed real estate subject to the same liens and in the same order of priority as they existed at the time of the sale thereof, excepting so far as the liens have been discharged or reduced by the application of the proceeds by the sheriff from the sale.
9 Del. C. § 1377 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter V / Section 1377
§ Â
        1377. Audit of accounts.
Status: in_force

Each year the County Auditor shall audit the accounts of the Department to determine whether they properly reflect all payments and delinquencies of taxes which shall have been levied.
9 Del. C. § 910 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 9 / Subchapter I / Section 910
§ Â
        910. Dogs deemed personal property; theft; penalty [Transferred].
Status: in_force

Transferred to 3050F of Title 16 by 80 Del. Laws, c. 248, § 5, effective May 25, 2016.
9 Del. C. § 4117 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter II / Section 4117
§ Â
        4117. County Engineer and other employees; appointment and duties.
Status: in_force

(a) The County Administrator may appoint a County Engineer for such term, and at such compensation as the Administrator deems proper. The County Engineer shall be responsible for and have general supervision over all public engineering work in the County including, but not limited to, the construction of sanitary sewers, trunk lines, sewerage disposal plants, sanitary sewer systems in general and maintenance thereof, drainage, construction, lighting service and other projects of a public nature.

(b) The County Administrator may employ, for such periods and for such compensation as the Administrator deems proper, such draftsmen, rodmen, and assistants as, in its opinion, are necessary to carry on such public work.
9 Del. C. § 4108 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter I / Section 4108
§ Â
        4108. County Administrator.
Status: in_force

(a) Appointment; qualifications; compensation. —

The county government shall appoint a County Administrator by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the county government, for a term not exceeding 4 years, and fix the Administrator’s compensation. The County Administrator shall be appointed solely on the basis of the Administrator’s executive and administrative qualifications. At the time of the Administrator’s contractual starting date the Administrator must be a resident of Kent County, and, during the Administrator’s tenure of office, the Administrator shall at all times reside within Kent County.

(b) Removal from office. —

The county government may remove the County Administrator from office before the expiration of the Administrator’s term, but only in accordance with the following procedures:

(1) By affirmative vote of a majority of all the members of the county government upon adoption of a preliminary resolution which shall state the reason for the removal. A copy of the preliminary resolution shall be delivered promptly to the County Administrator.

(2) Within 10 days after a copy of the preliminary resolution is delivered to the County Administrator, the Administrator may file with the county government a written request for a public hearing. This hearing shall be held at a special county government meeting not later than 30 days after the request is filed. The County Administrator may file with the county government a written reply not later than 5 days prior to the hearing. The County Administrator shall be permitted to appear in person at the hearing in lieu of a full written reply to the charges made and may present the Administrator’s case with witnesses as the circumstances may require.

(3) The county government may adopt a final resolution of removal, which may be made effective immediately, by affirmative vote of a majority of all the members at any time after 10 days from the date when a copy of the preliminary resolution was delivered to the Administrator, if the Administrator has not requested a hearing.

(c) Acting county administrator. —

The county government may designate a qualified acting county administrative officer to exercise the powers and perform the duties of the County Administrator during the latter’s absence or disability.

(d) Powers and duties. —

The County Administrator is the chief administrative officer of the County. The County Administrator shall attend the meetings of the county government and be responsible to the county government for the proper administration of all the affairs of the County which the county government has authority to control. Under the direction of the county government, the County Administrator has the following powers and duties, except as otherwise provided by this chapter, law, or governing personnel regulations:

(1) The County Administrator shall appoint and, when the Administrator deems it necessary, suspend or remove any county employees and appointive administrative officers with the exception of the Director of Finance. The Administrator may authorize any administrative officer who is subject to the Administrator’s direction and supervision to exercise these powers with respect to subordinates in that officer’s department, office or agency.

(2) The County Administrator shall direct and supervise the administration of all departments, offices and agencies of the County.

(3) The County Administrator has the right to take part in discussion at all county government meetings but may not vote.

(4) The County Administrator shall see that all laws, provisions of this chapter, and acts of the county government, subject to enforcement by the County Administrator or by officers subject to the Administrator’s direction and supervision, are faithfully executed.

(5) The County Administrator shall prepare and submit a proposed annual budget and capital program to the county government, with the Administrator’s recommendations and shall execute the budget as finally adopted.

(6) The County Administrator shall make reports, at least once monthly, to the county government in regard to matters of administration, and keep the county government fully advised as to the financial condition of the county government.

(7) The County Administrator shall submit to the county government and make available to the public a complete report on the finances and administrative activities of the County within 60 days after the end of each fiscal year.

(8) The County Administrator shall familiarize himself or herself in detail with the affairs of all officers, departments, boards, and agencies and make recommendations and reports to the county government at such times as the government may direct. The County Administrator may order an audit of any office or agency at any time by the independent auditor engaged by the county government.

(9) The County Administrator shall perform such other duties as are specified in this chapter or as may be required by the county government.
9 Del. C. § 8434 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 84 / Subchapter II / Section 8434
§ Â
        8434. Collection of delinquent taxes by receiver of taxes and county treasurer or director of finance for own use after personally paying same; extension and assignment of liens.
Status: in_force

(a) If any receiver of taxes and county treasurer or director of finance, or outgoing receiver of taxes and county treasurer or director of finance, is unable, within 1 year from the date of the duplicate and warrant, to collect the tax of any taxable, he or she may, having first paid the amount thereof to the credit of the county, collect the tax from such taxable for his or her own use and benefit by any of the processes of law prescribed in this part, within the space of 1 further year. The further year shall commence upon the day of the expiration of the year beginning upon the date of the warrant and duplicate, after which time the tax shall be extinguished unless the lien of the tax is extended.

(b) In case any receiver of taxes and county treasurer or director of finance, or any outgoing receiver of taxes and county treasurer or director of finance, causes the lien of any tax to be extended and is compelled to pay the amount thereof to the credit of the county, the county government shall assign the lien or mark it to the use of such receiver of taxes and county treasurer or director of finance, and he or she may proceed thereon for its enforcement in the name of the State to and for his or her use.
9 Del. C. § 564 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter II / Section 564
§ Â
        564. Sale of bonds; proceeds of sale; advertising required.
Status: in_force

(a) The county government shall negotiate the sale and delivery of the bonds. The proceeds of the sale of the bonds shall be paid into the treasury of the county government to be used for the purposes provided in this subchapter; provided, however, any excess received from the sale of the bonds beyond the cost of the project shall immediately be transferred to the special sinking fund required by § 578 of this title.

(b) The county government shall advertise the bonds for sale in at least 2 issues each of 2 newspapers, 1 of which shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Wilmington, Delaware, and 1 of which shall be published in the City of New York, inviting bids for the same, which advertisements shall state the total amount of the proposed issue, the denominations of the bonds, the place of payment of the bonds and interest, the place and date of opening the bids, and the conditions under which the bonds are to be sold. The county government may give notice of the sale of the bonds in such other manner as it may decide.
9 Del. C. § 6106 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 61 / Section 6106
§ Â
        6106. Ambulance service.
Status: in_force

(a) So long as any of the organizations listed in this subsection shall have an ambulance and provide ambulance service for the benefit of the residents of Sussex County, the county government shall appropriate annually, and on May 1 of each year shall pay, the sum of $500 to such organization for the maintenance of its ambulance.

Bridgeville Fire Company, at Bridgeville.

Delmar Fire Department, Inc., at Delmar.

Frankford Volunteer Fire Company, at Frankford.

Gumboro Volunteer Fire Company.

Laurel Fire Department, at Laurel.

The Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, Inc., at Rehoboth Beach.

Seaford Volunteer Fire Company, at Seaford.

Selbyville American Legion Post 9, Inc.

Sussex Memorial Post, No. 7422, V.F.W. at Millsboro.

Sussex Post No. 8, Incorporated, American Legion.

(b) So long as Sussex Post, No. 9, American Legion, at Georgetown, shall have an ambulance and provide ambulance service for the benefit of the residents of Sussex County, the county government shall appropriate annually and on May 1 in each year shall pay the sum of $250 to it for the maintenance of its ambulance.

(c) So long as Carlisle Fire Company, of Milford, shall have an ambulance and provide ambulance service for the benefit of the residents of Kent and Sussex Counties, the county government may appropriate and pay to it annually the sum of $250 for the maintenance of its ambulance.

(d) So long as Lewes Fire Department of Lewes, Delaware, shall have an ambulance and provide ambulance service for the benefit of the residents of Sussex County, the county government shall appropriate annually and on May 1 of each year shall pay the sum of $500 to it for the maintenance of its ambulance.
9 Del. C. § 627 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 6 / Subchapter III / Section 627
§ Â
        627. Determination of status by county government.
Status: in_force

Within 15 days after receipt by the county government of the recommendations of the commission as hereinbefore provided, the county government shall meet and consider the evidence and testimony given at the hearing before the commission and the recommendation of such commission and determine whether a proposed community is a suburban park community as provided in § 602 of this title and whether said community should be improved by the addition of a park or recreation area, and determine what shall be the boundaries of the suburban park community and that it is in the public interest to establish such suburban park community and that all real property included within its boundaries will be benefited by the construction of the proposed park layout and the establishment of the proposed park or recreation area and the making of the improvements proposed to be made therein.
9 Del. C. § 4816 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 48 / Section 4816
§ Â
        4816. Issuance of building and occupancy permits.
Status: in_force

(a) No building permit shall be issued by the County for the erection of any building or for the construction of any improvement, utility or structure on any part of any land which is required to be submitted to the Commission as provided in § 4810 of this title after the adoption of regulations, and no street, right-of-way, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, water main, or other improvements in connection therewith shall be constructed, opened or dedicated for public use or travel, or for the common use of occupants of buildings abutting thereon, except pursuant to an approval received for the road, subdivision or land development plan in accordance with the provisions contained in this chapter.

(b) No occupancy permit shall be issued for such building, improvement, utility or structure, or land thereunder, except upon a determination of full compliance with the road, subdivision or land development plan approval.

(c) Except in instances in which the Department of Transportation has indicated authorization for temporary use of land set aside for future right-of-way needs, as provided in § 145 of Title 17, no building permit shall be issued by the County for the erection of any building or for the construction of any improvement, or structure on any part of any land which lies, or is located, within the lines of any land designated and set aside for future highway right-of-way needs as appears on the Department’s Future Right-of-Way Map — Final, except as hereinafter provided in subsection (d) of this section.

(d) A building permit, otherwise issuable except for subsection (c) of this section, shall be issued notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (c) of this section unless the Department, after being given written notice thereof by the Commission shall:

(1) Within 60 days of receipt of such notice, file with the Commission a declaration that:

a. The issuance of the permit will be detrimental to future highway planning and construction; and

b. That the land described in the permit application is needed for future highway purposes; and

(2) Within 180 days of the giving of such notice, institute condemnation proceedings under Chapter 61 of Title 10, to acquire all of the land described in said building permit application as may be located within said future highway right-of-way.
9 Del. C. § 3402 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 34 / Section 3402
§ Â
        3402. Establishing a stormwater maintenance district.
Status: in_force

(a) County government shall adopt an ordinance implementing this chapter, that provides the procedures and criteria for the establishment and operation of stormwater maintenance districts.

(b) Subdivisions and land developments approved after January 13, 2022. —

Any new subdivision or land development in any unincorporated area in New Castle County that is approved after January 13, 2022, shall establish a stormwater maintenance district, as required by the ordinance adopted under subsection (a) of this section, as a condition of plan approval. Fees for the district must not be incurred until the subdivision or land development is complete and the stormwater infrastructure is approved by the appropriate regulating agency.

(c) Subdivisions and land developments established before January 13, 2022. —

Any subdivision or land development established before January 13, 2022, in any unincorporated area in New Castle County contained within ascertainable boundaries, may petition county government under the ordinance adopted under subsection (a) of this section to declare the area a stormwater maintenance district.

(d) The county government may establish a stormwater maintenance district within an incorporated area of the County under subsection (a) of this section, but only with the concurrence of the local governing body.
9 Del. C. § 6716 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 67 / Section 6716
§ Â
        6716. Connection of property with sewer or water mains.
Status: in_force

Permits for connecting any property by a drain or pipe with any county sewer or water main shall be obtained from the county government and shall be issued only to plumbers licensed to do business in this State. No permit will be granted for connecting any property by a drain or pipe with any sewer or water main unless application is made therefor to the county government in writing upon blanks furnished by the county government. The application shall state the full name of the owner, the size and kind of drain or pipe to be used, and a full description of the premises, its location, the number and size of each building located thereon to be drained, the area of each floor thereof, including the floor of the cellar or basement, all of the purposes for which the drain or pipe is to be used, the time when the connection is to be made and other particulars for a full understanding of the subject and that the owner will be subject to all the rules and regulations prescribed by the county government. The application shall be signed by the owner of the property to be drained or supplied with water and by a plumber licensed to do business in this State. The owner shall also execute a release to the county government releasing the county government, its officers and agents and the County from all liability or damage which may in any manner result to the premises by reason of such connection. No permit shall be deemed to authorize anything not therein specifically stated.
9 Del. C. § 6815 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 68 / Section 6815
§ Â
        6815. Entry upon land; access to records.
Status: in_force

(a) In the performance of the functions and duties of the Commission, any member thereof or any employee or agent thereof shall have the right to enter into and upon, at reasonable times (Sundays and holidays excluded) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., any lands in the District, either public or private, and to make surveys and to place and maintain necessary monuments and markers thereon, but such entry shall be made with due care and regard for the protection and preservation of property.

(b) In the performance of the functions and duties of the Commission, any member, employee or agent thereof shall have free access, without expense, to all state, county, municipal and other public records.
9 Del. C. § 532 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter I / Section 532
§ Â
        532. Special sinking fund.
Status: in_force

The county government shall promptly deposit all funds received from the receiver of taxes and county treasurer from the collection of the special assessment or levy in a special sinking fund account, which shall be used for no other purpose than the retiring of the bonds and interest accruing thereon, after payment has been made to the Division of Highways for costs incurred as set forth elsewhere in this subchapter.
9 Del. C. § 3505 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 35 / Section 3505
§ Â
        3505. Creation of a neighborhood improvement district.
Status: in_force

(a) Establishment. — (1) Property owners and residents in a proposed NID, or the County, may petition to establish a NID, subject to all requirements under this chapter.

(2) Where property owners or residents desire to establish a NID, or the County initiates such action, which occurs by way of a proposed ordinance sponsored by the District Council Member, a petition in a form established by the County must be submitted pursuant to the procedures provided for in this chapter. The proposed ordinance must identify criteria that support creation of a NID.

(3) The submission of a petition to establish a NID creates no obligation on the County to move forward with any of the procedures outlined in this chapter.

(b) Specific procedures. — (1) The County shall provide to all property owners and lessees thereof located in the proposed NID a copy of the preliminary plan (the “Preliminary NIDP” ) and the location, date, and time of the public hearing at least 30 calendar days prior to the hearing required under this chapter. In addition, notice of the public hearing must be advertised at least 10 business days prior to the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the County.

(2) The hearing is for the purpose of receiving public comment on the Preliminary NIDP from property owners and residents within the proposed NID.

(3) Objections, if any, to the Preliminary NIDP may be submitted by nonexempt specially-assessed property owners within the proposed NID. In order to defeat the proposed NIDP, at least 50% of the specially-assessed property owners must timely lodge an objection in the manner required under this chapter. All objections must be in writing, notarized, and be submitted to the general manager of the Department of Community Services or designee thereof by hand delivery or electronic mail by the forty-fifth calendar day following the public hearing under this subsection. A scan or photocopy of a notarized document is valid.

(c) Contents of the Preliminary NIDP. — The Preliminary NIDP must include all of the following:

(1) A map indicating the boundaries of the proposed NID, as identified on the filed record plan. A designated property may not be included in more than 1 NID unless expressly authorized by ordinance of County Council.

(2) A written report from the County containing:

a. The name of the proposed NID.

b. A detailed description of the service area of the proposed NID.

c. A list of all properties to be specially assessed.

d. A list and brief description of proposed enhanced services and the estimated annual cost of the services.

e. A proposed budget for the first fiscal year, including proposed expenditures for enhanced services and related programs, which includes associated costs of services such as personnel, administration, maintenance, and operational costs.

f. The revenue sources for funding the proposed enhanced services and programs.

g. The estimated time for implementation of the proposed services and programs.

h. A brief statement identifying the NIDMA.

i. A general description of the powers and duties of the NIDMA.

j. The method of determining the special assessment fee to be levied on nonexempt properties within the NID under § 3508 of this title.

(3) The Preliminary NIDP must:

a. Identify the respective duties and responsibilities of the NIDMA and the County in relation to the NID.

b. Require that a written agreement be entered into between the NIDMA and the County.

c. Require in the agreement between the NIDMA and the County, and in the ordinance creating the NID, that the County must provide no less than the level of county services provided within the NID as before creation of the NID.

d. Provide in the agreement between the County and the NIDMA, and in the ordinance creating the NID, a sunset provision of up to 5 years, subject to extension thereafter by County Council following review of the NID and related enhanced services as provided for in § 3510 of this title.

e. Require in the agreement between the County and the NIDMA and in the ordinance creating the NID that the County is responsible for collection of a special assessment levied within the NID.

f. Allow for and encourage any owners of exempt property in the NID to provide in-kind services or a financial contribution to the NIDMA in lieu of a special assessment fee.

g. Require that in order to defeat establishment of the proposed NID, at least 50% of the specially-assessed property owners in the NID must lodge a written, notarized objection to the proposed NID. Such objection must be delivered to the general manager of the Department of Community Services or designee thereof via hand delivery or electronic mail no later than 45 calendar days following the hearing in which the County Council considers the Preliminary NIDP under subsection (b) of this section.

(d) The Proposed Final NIDP. —

Subsequent to the hearing on the Preliminary NIDP, unless the requisite number of objections to the Preliminary NIDP identified in subsection (b) of this section, has been timely submitted, the County shall provide a proposed final NIDP (the “Proposed Final NIDP” ) to all property owners and lessees thereof located within the proposed NID that reflects all revisions to the Preliminary NIDP based on comments from specially-assessed property owners and residents submitted at or within 45 calendar days following the public hearing. All revisions to the Preliminary NIDP reflected in the Proposed Final NIDP are to be identified in an easily discernible manner, such as changes being in boldfaced or italicized type.

(e) Public hearing - Proposed Final NIDP. —

Subject to the timely lodging of the requisite number of objections referenced in subsection (b) of this section, a public hearing to consider the Proposed Final NIDP must be held by the County. Notice of the hearing, including date, time, and place, and the means to lodge an objection, must be provided at least 30 calendar days prior to the hearing to all property owners and lessees thereof located in the proposed NID and must be advertised at least 10 business days prior to the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the County.

(f) Veto of the Proposed Final NIDP. — (1) Following the public hearing required under subsection (e) of this section, specially-assessed property owners located within a proposed NID have 45 calendar days from the date of the hearing to object to the Proposed Final NIDP.

(2) If at least 50% of specially-assessed property owners within a proposed NID fail to timely lodge an objection to the Proposed Final NIDP, the County Council may, following the 45-day period, consider an ordinance to establish a NID, or in the case of an amendment to a previously approved Final NIDP, adopt any amendments consistent with subsection (g) of this section.

(3) After the deadline has passed for objections under this section without the requisite number of objections having been lodged that would defeat the establishment of the NID, the County Council may proceed to consider the Proposed Final NIDP.

(g) Amendments to an approved Final NIDP. — (1) A previously approved NIDP (a “Final NIDP”), upon the recommendation of the NIDMA board, may be amended at any time after establishment of the NID. At least 51% of nonexempt specially-assessed property owners within the NID must approve the proposed amendment by lodging an approval in writing with the general manager of the Department of Community Services or designee thereof via hand delivery or electronic mail no later than 45 calendar days following the public hearing required under this subsection.

(2) Amendments to a Final NIDP may include any of the following:

a. Substantially-changed enhanced services or programs to be provided in the NID.

b. Increase in expenditures of at least 25% of the total NIDMA budget for the fiscal year.

c. Changing the special assessment fee levied on properties in the NID.

d. Changing the legal entity that administers enhanced services within the NID.

e. Changing the NID boundaries.

f. Other substantial changes to the Final NIDP as determined by County Council.

(3) The County shall provide a copy of the proposed amendments to all property owners and lessees thereof located within the proposed NID as well as notice of the hearing on the proposed amendments specifying the date, time, and place of the hearing, and the means to lodge an approval. All amendments are to be identified in an easily discernible manner, such as changes being in boldfaced or italicized type. Such notice must be provided at least 30 days prior to the hearing.

(4) The County shall provide public notice of the hearing on any proposed amendment to a Final NIDP by publication of a notice in at least 1 newspaper having a general circulation in the County, specifying the date, time, and place of the hearing, the means to lodge an approval, and the amendments to be considered. The notice must be published at least 10 business days prior to the hearing.

(5) Upon receiving the requisite number of votes under paragraph (g)(1) of this section, the County Council may proceed to consider the proposed amendments to the Final NIDP.

(6) Prior to any hearing to consider proposed amendments to increase the boundaries of a NID, each owner of property and lessees thereof proposed to be added to a NID must be notified of the date, time, and location of the public hearing on the proposed amendments and must be provided all information identified under subsections (c) and (d) of this section.
9 Del. C. § 2508 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 25 / Section 2508
§ Â
        2508. Records.
Status: in_force

(a) The Department of Land Use shall keep a careful and comprehensive record of applications, of permits issued, of inspections made, of reports rendered and of notices or orders issued. The Department of Land Use shall retain on file copies or electronic versions of all papers in connection with building work so long as any part of the building or structure to which they relate may be in existence, except that construction plans for buildings or structures of less than $200,000 value need not be retained after work shown on such plans has been completed and has been approved and accepted. The Department of Land Use shall keep a record of all violations of any rules or regulations promulgated by the County Council, with the name of the owner or builder and the location where such violations are found.

(b) All records shall be open to public inspection at the discretion of the Department of Land Use and subject to the Delaware Freedom of Information Act [Chapter 100 of Title 29] but shall not be removed from the Department.
9 Del. C. § 5403 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 54 / Section 5403
§ Â
        5403. Bonds to finance development of industrial, commercial, or residential area authorized.
Status: in_force

In addition to whatever other powers it may have, and notwithstanding any limitation of law, the County may borrow money by issuing and selling bonds, at any time and from time to time, for the purpose of financing the development of an industrial, commercial, or residential area. The issuance of general obligation bonds pursuant to this chapter shall comply with any debt limits otherwise applicable to the County.
9 Del. C. § 1318 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter I / Section 1318
§ Â
        1318. Functions of Board of Assessment Review.
Status: in_force

Transferred to § 1371B of this title by 84 Del. Laws, c. 412, § 4, effective Sept. 19, 2024.
9 Del. C. § 4635 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4635
§ Â
        4635. Period of usefulness.
Status: in_force

(a) The following maximum periods of usefulness are hereby prescribed for the respective projects authorized by this chapter, and the period of usefulness of any project, determined in any bond resolution shall, in no event, exceed the maximum period hereby prescribed for that project.

(b) The acquisition, construction or reconstruction of a sewage system or an addition thereto, whether or not including treatment or disposal plants or buildings, original furnishings, equipment, machinery or apparatus, or the replacement of such equipment, machinery or apparatus, is 40 years; the replacement or the later addition of furnishings is 10 years.
9 Del. C. § 4808 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 48 / Section 4808
§ Â
        4808. Road surveys.
Status: in_force

The Commission may, in pursuance of the development and carrying out of its master plan, make from time to time surveys for the exact location of the lines of future roads, road relocations, road extensions, road widenings or narrowings in the District or any portion thereof, and make plats of the areas thus surveyed, showing the Commission’s recommendations for the exact locations of such future road lines.
9 Del. C. § 811 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 8 / Subchapter II / Section 811
§ Â
        811. General borrowing power.
Status: in_force

Under the circumstances and conditions set forth in this subchapter, money may be borrowed by Kent County in aid of any public library in the County now or hereafter established whether a countywide or district library.
9 Del. C. § 650 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 6 / Subchapter IV / Section 650
§ Â
        650. Bonds; power of county government to issue; terms.
Status: in_force

(a) The county government may issue bonds of the county to finance the cost of acquiring and constructing such recreational and park facilities. Said bonds shall bear interest at a rate which shall not exceed 5 percent per annum and the income therefrom shall not be subject to state taxation. Each issue of said bonds shall be payable within 30 years after date of the bonds of such issue. The reasonable expenses of issuing such bonds shall be deemed a part of the cost of acquisition and construction of such park and recreation facilities. The full faith and credit of the county shall be pledged to the payment of such bonds and the interest thereon.

(b) The county government shall advertise said bonds for sale in at least 2 issues each of 2 newspapers, 1 of which shall be of general circulation in the City of Wilmington, Delaware, and 1 of which shall be published in the City of New York, inviting bids for the same. The advertisements shall state the total amount of the proposed issue, the denominations of said bonds, the place of payment of said bonds and interest, the place and date of opening said bids, and the conditions under which said bonds are to be sold. Said county government may give notice of the sale of said bonds in such other manner as it may decide.

(c) The county government may require each bid for said bonds to be accompanied by a certified check in the amount of the bid, and after the bonds are awarded or sold to the successful bidder or bidders therefor, the county government shall return to the unsuccessful bidder or bidders the certified check or check submitted with the bid or bids.

(d) The county government shall have the right to reject any and all bids, but in awarding the sale of said bonds, or any of them, they shall be sold to the person, persons, firm or corporation which, in the judgment of the county government, offers the most advantageous terms. Said bonds shall not be offered for sale until the attorney for the county government has submitted the attorney’s opinion in writing that the bonds will, when duly sold, executed, delivered and paid for, be validly issued in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

(e) The county government shall direct and effect the preparation and printing of the bonds authorized by this chapter, fix the rate of interest, and shall prescribe the form of said bonds and the coupons for the payment of interest thereto attached. Said bonds shall state the conditions under which they are issued. The coupons and face amount thereof shall be payable at any state or national bank designated by the county government. Said bonds shall be signed by the presiding officer of the county government, countersigned by the clerk of the peace, and sealed with the official seal of the county government.
9 Del. C. § 6309 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 63 / Section 6309
§ Â
        6309. Occupancy.
Status: in_force

Any building that has been constructed without a permit may not be occupied, maintained or used by any person except with permission of the Department of Finance.
9 Del. C. § 3306 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 33 / Section 3306
§ Â
        3306. When no bonds outstanding.
Status: in_force

When no bonds are outstanding with respect to a special development district:

(1) The special development district shall be terminated; and

(2) Any moneys remaining in the special fund on the date of termination of the special development district shall be paid to the general fund of the county.
9 Del. C. § 4528 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter II / Section 4528
§ Â
        4528. Title of property sold.
Status: in_force

Any real estate or interest therein sold under the provisions of this subchapter shall vest in the purchaser all the right, title and interest of the person in whose name the property was assessed, and/or all right, title and interest of the person or persons who are the owners thereof, and likewise freed and discharged from any liens and encumbrances, dower or curtesy or statutory right, in the nature of a dower or curtesy, whether absolute or inchoate, in or to the real estate.
9 Del. C. § 2656 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 26 / Subchapter II / Section 2656
§ Â
        2656. Required and optional elements of comprehensive plan; studies and surveys [Effective Nov. 15, 2026].
Status: in_force

(a) The comprehensive plan shall consist of materials in such descriptive form, either written or graphic, as may be appropriate to the prescription of principles, guidelines and standards for the orderly and balanced future economic, social, physical, environmental and fiscal development of the area.

(b) Coordination of the several elements of the local comprehensive plan shall be a major objective of the planning process.

(c) A capital improvements plan covering at least a 5-year period shall be developed in accordance with the adoption of, and be consistent with, the comprehensive plan. The capital improvements plan shall be designed to consider the need for and the location of public facilities in order to encourage the efficient utilization of such facilities and set forth:

(1) Principles for construction, extension or increase in capacity of public facilities, as well as principles for correcting existing public facility deficiencies, which are necessary to implement the comprehensive plan.

(2) Estimated public facility costs, including a delineation of when facilities will be needed, the general location of the facilities and projected revenue sources to fund the facilities.

(3) Standards to ensure the availability of public facilities and the adequacy of those facilities.

(4) To the extent provisions of the capital improvements plan anticipate State financial assistance, involvement or cooperation, such provisions shall be developed in conjunction with the state capital improvement plan and annual capital budget.

(d) The capital improvements plan shall be reviewed on an annual basis and modified as necessary. Corrections, updates and modifications concerning costs, revenue sources, acceptance of facilities pursuant to dedications which are consistent with the plan, or the date of construction of any facility enumerated in the capital improvements plan may be accomplished by ordinance and shall not be deemed to be amendments to the local comprehensive plan. All proposed improvements to public facilities shall be consistent with the capital improvements plan.

(e) Coordination of the comprehensive plan with the comprehensive plans of municipalities within the County, adjacent counties and applicable state regulations and policy shall be an objective of the comprehensive planning process. To that end, in the preparation of a comprehensive plan or element thereof, and in the comprehensive plan or element as adopted, the planning agency shall include a specific policy statement or coordinated mapping element indicating the relationship of the proposed development of the area to the comprehensive plans of municipalities within the County, adjacent counties and applicable state regulations and policy as the case may require. Such policy statement or coordinated mapping element shall specifically identify the coordination process undertaken and the official action taken by affected municipalities regarding the county comprehensive plan. Such statement or element shall also set forth the procedures to be followed to ensure continuing coordination with municipalities, regional agencies and the State. In addition, the comprehensive plan shall provide for coordination with state agencies regarding land use and development policies and shall provide for review and consideration by the Cabinet Committee on State Planning Issues at such times as required by this subchapter.

(f) The comprehensive plan and its elements shall contain policy recommendations for the implementation of the plan and its elements.

(g) The comprehensive plan shall include:

(1) a. A future land use plan element designating proposed future general distribution, location and extent of the uses of land for such activities as residential uses, commercial uses, industry, agriculture, recreation, conservation, education, public buildings and grounds, other public facilities and other categories of the public and private uses of land. The plan shall include standards to be followed in the control and distribution of population densities and building and structure intensities. The proposed distribution, location and extent of the various categories of land use shall be shown on a land use map or map series which shall be supplemented by goals, policies and measurable objectives. Each land use category shall be defined in terms of the types of uses included and standards for the density or intensity of use. The future land use plan shall be based upon surveys, studies and data regarding the area, including the amount of land required to accommodate anticipated growth, the projected population of the area, the character of undeveloped land and the availability of public services. The future land use plan may designate areas for future planned development use involving combinations of types of uses for which special regulations may be necessary to ensure development in accord with the principles and standards of the comprehensive plan and this subchapter. The land use maps or map series shall generally identify and depict historic district boundaries and shall designate historically significant properties meriting protection. Population, demographic, environmental and economic data and projections used to determine present conditions, future land use and public facility requirements shall be developed in conjunction with the State and municipalities, and shall, as a minimum, consistent with projections officially adopted by the Delaware Population Consortium. The sources and assumptions used to develop such projections shall be clearly identified.

b. The future land use plan must reflect strategies which consider community resiliency and reduce the vulnerability of property, agriculture, infrastructure, and cultural and natural resources to the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, changes in rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events. The strategies must be informed by the Delaware Climate Action Plan and implementation reports as amended and in consultation with the Office of State Planning and Coordination.

(2) A mobility element which is consistent with the approved Area-wide Transportation Plan and has been developed in conjunction with the Department of Transportation. The mobility element shall provide a balanced transportation system addressing the movement of people and goods while showing existing and proposed rights-of-way, sidewalks, bikeways, walking trails, rail facilities, terminals and related facilities. The mobility element shall include recommendations for land use regulations that promote a range of sustainable transportation choices and consider alternatives to auto-centric development patterns, including transit services, where applicable for future transportation needs. The mobility element shall be consistent with the State Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality attainment and consider the designated evacuation routes as set forth by the appropriate state agencies.ion, the comprehensive plan shall provide for coordination with state agencies regarding land use and development policies and shall provide for review and consideration by the Cabinet Committee on State Planning Issues at such times as required by this subchapter.

(f) The comprehensive plan and its elements shall contain policy recommendations for the implementation of the plan and its elements.

(g) The comprehensive plan shall include:

(1) A future land use plan element designating proposed future general distribution, location and extent of the uses of land for such activities as residential uses, commercial uses, industry, agriculture, recreation, conservation, education, public buildings and grounds, other public facilities and other categories of the public and private uses of land. The plan shall include standards to be followed in the control and distribution of population densities and building and structure intensities. The proposed distribution, location and extent of the various categories of land use shall be shown on a land use map or map series which shall be supplemented by goals, policies and measurable objectives. Each land use category shall be defined in terms of the types of uses included and standards for the density or intensity of use. The future land use plan shall be based upon surveys, studies and data regarding the area, including the amount of land required to accommodate anticipated growth, the projected population of the area, the character of undeveloped land and the availability of public services. The future land use plan may designate areas for future planned development use involving combinations of types of uses for which special regulations may be necessary to ensure development in accord with the principles and standards of the comprehensive plan and this subchapter. The land use maps or map series shall generally identify and depict historic district boundaries and shall designate historically significant properties meriting protection. Population, demographic, environmental and economic data and projections used to determine present conditions, future land use and public facility requirements shall be developed in conjunction with the State and municipalities, and shall, as a minimum, consistent with projections officially adopted by the Delaware Population Consortium. The sources and assumptions used to develop such projections shall be clearly identified.

(2) A mobility element which is consistent with the approved Area-wide Transportation Plan and has been developed in conjunction with the Department of Transportation. The mobility element shall provide a balanced transportation system addressing the movement of people and goods while showing existing and proposed rights-of-way, sidewalks, bikeways, rail facilities, terminals and related facilities. The mobility element shall include recommendations for land use regulations that promote a range of sustainable transportation choices for future transportation needs. The mobility element shall be consistent with the State Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality attainment.

(3) A water and sewer element correlated to principles and guidelines for future land use, indicating ways to provide for future potable water, and wastewater disposal for the area. County Council, in conjunction with the State, shall assess their current, as well as projected, water needs and sources. The element shall describe the problems and needs and the general facilities that will be required for solution of the problems and needs. The water and sewer element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. The water and sewer element shall include an assessment of fiscal considerations and shall be consistent with approved area-wide wastewater treatment Plans.

(4) A conservation element for the conservation, use and protection of natural resources in the area and which results in the identification of these resources. At a minimum, the element shall consist of such natural area classifications as wetlands, wood uplands, habitat areas, geological areas, hydrological areas, floodplains, aquifer recharge areas, ocean beaches, soils and slopes. The land use map or map series contained in the future land use element shall generally identify and depict natural areas classifications, such as those enumerated in this section. The land uses identified on said maps shall be consistent with applicable state laws and regulations. Identification and depiction of the above shall be based on the best topographic maps and other information available from state and federal agencies or other sources that the County deems appropriate. The conservation element shall also consider areas most suited for agricultural uses, silvacultural uses and watershed protection. The conservation element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

(5) A recreation and open space element indicating a comprehensive system of public and private sites for recreation including, but not limited to, nature preserves, parks and playgrounds, parkways, water bodies including beaches and public access to beaches, open spaces and other recreational facilities. A county recreation and open space plan is acceptable in lieu of a recreation and open space element. The recreation and open space element shall be consistent with the comprehensive land use plan. The element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and shall reflect the State’s open space preservation and outdoor recreation planning activities.

(6) A housing element that is consistent with county housing plans, standards and principles. Such housing plans shall be in accordance with state and federal rules and regulations and the housing plan or housing element of the comprehensive plan shall include the following:

a. The provision of housing for existing residents and the anticipated growth of the area.

b. The elimination of substandard dwelling conditions.

c. The structural and aesthetic improvement of existing housing.

d. The provision of adequate sites for future housing, including housing for low-income and moderate-income families, group home facilities and foster care facilities, with supporting infrastructure and public facilities.

e. Provision for relocation housing and identification of historically significant and other housing for purposes of conservation, rehabilitation or replacement.

f. The formulation of housing implementation programs.

g. Demonstrated coordination with the State Housing Authority including, but not limited to, guidelines to insure that sites for publicly assisted housing are located where adequate transportation opportunities, health and social services and other community services are available.

(7) An intergovernmental coordination element of the comprehensive plan shall demonstrate consideration of the particular effects of the plan, when adopted, upon the development of municipalities within the County, adjacent counties or on the applicable state regulations.t promote a range of sustainable transportation choices and consider alternatives to auto-centric development patterns, including transit services, where applicable for future transportation needs. The mobility element shall be consistent with the State Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality attainment and consider the designated evacuation routes as set forth by the appropriate state agencies.

(3) A water and sewer element correlated to principles and guidelines for future land use, indicating ways to provide for future potable water, and wastewater disposal for the area. County Council, in conjunction with the State, shall assess their current, as well as projected, water needs and sources. The element shall describe the problems and needs and the general facilities that will be required for solution of the problems and needs. The water and sewer element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. The water and sewer element shall include an assessment of fiscal considerations and shall be consistent with approved area-wide wastewater treatment Plans.

(4) A conservation element for the conservation, restoration where appropriate, use and protection of natural resources in the area and which results in the identification of these resources. At a minimum, the element shall consist of such natural area classifications as wetlands, forests, uplands, habitat areas, and wildlife corridors, geological areas, hydrological areas, floodplains, aquifer recharge areas, ocean beaches, soils and slopes. The land use map or map series contained in the future land use element shall generally identify and depict natural areas classifications, such as those enumerated in this section. The land uses identified on said maps shall be consistent with applicable state laws and regulations. Identification and depiction of the above shall be based on the best topographic maps and other information available from state and federal agencies or other sources that the County deems appropriate. The conservation element shall also consider areas most suited for agricultural uses, silvicultural uses and watershed protection. The conservation element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

(5) A recreation and open space element indicating a comprehensive system of public and private sites for recreation including, but not limited to, nature preserves, parks and playgrounds, parkways, water bodies including beaches and public access to beaches, open spaces and other recreational facilities. A county recreation and open space plan is acceptable in lieu of a recreation and open space element. The recreation and open space element shall be consistent with the comprehensive land use plan. The element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and shall reflect the State’s open space preservation and outdoor recreation planning activities.

(6) A housing element that is consistent with county housing plans, standards and principles. Such housing plans shall be in accordance with state and federal rules and regulations and the housing plan or housing element of the comprehensive plan shall include the following:

a. The provision of housing for existing residents and the anticipated growth of the area. Anticipated growth scenarios must be in conformance with the strategies reflected in the future land use plan and encourage development of new housing growth away from areas vulnerable to inland and coastal flooding.

b. The elimination of substandard dwelling conditions.

c. The structural and aesthetic improvement of existing housing.

d. The provision of adequate sites for future housing, including housing for low-income and moderate-income families, group home facilities and foster care facilities, with supporting infrastructure and public facilities.

e. Provision for relocation housing and identification of historically significant and other housing for purposes of conservation, rehabilitation or replacement.

f. The formulation of housing implementation programs.

g. Demonstrated coordination with the State Housing Authority including, but not limited to, guidelines to ensure that sites for publicly assisted housing are located where adequate transportation opportunities, health and social services and other community services are available.

(7) An intergovernmental coordination element of the comprehensive plan shall demonstrate consideration of the particular effects of the plan, when adopted, upon the development of municipalities within the County, adjacent counties or on the applicable state regulations.

(8) A recommended community design element to assist in the achievement of the objectives of the comprehensive plan which may consist of design recommendations for land subdivision, neighborhood development, neighborhood redevelopment, design of open space locations and similar matters. To that end, such recommendations may be made available as aids and guides to developers in the future planning and development of land in the area.

(9) An historical preservation element which sets out plans and programs for those structures or lands in the area having historical, archaeological, architectural or similar significance. The historical preservation element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State.

(10) An economic development element setting forth principles and guidelines for the commercial and industrial development, if any, and the employment and personnel utilization within the area. The element may detail the type of commercial and industrial development sought while correlating the present and projected employment needs of the area to other elements of the plan and may set forth methods by which a balanced and stable economic base will be pursued. The economic development element shall include a general area redevelopment component consisting of plans, criteria and programs for community redevelopment, including reuse of housing sites, business sites, industrial sites, central business districts, public building sites, recreational facilities and other locations. The economic development element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Division of Small Business.re located where adequate transportation opportunities, health and social services and other community services are available.

(7) An intergovernmental coordination element of the comprehensive plan shall demonstrate consideration of the particular effects of the plan, when adopted, upon the development of municipalities within the County, adjacent counties or on the applicable state regulations.

(8) A recommended community design element to assist in the achievement of the objectives of the comprehensive plan which may consist of design recommendations for land subdivision, neighborhood development, neighborhood redevelopment, design of open space locations and similar matters. To that end, such recommendations may be made available as aids and guides to developers in the future planning and development of land in the area.

(9) An historical preservation element which sets out plans and programs for those structures or lands in the area having historical, archaeological, architectural or similar significance. The historical preservation element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State.

(10) An economic development element setting forth principles and guidelines for the commercial and industrial development, if any, and the employment and personnel utilization within the area. The element may detail the type of commercial and industrial development sought while correlating the present and projected employment needs of the area to other elements of the plan and may set forth methods by which a balanced and stable economic base will be pursued. The economic development element shall include a general area redevelopment component consisting of plans, criteria and programs for community redevelopment, including reuse of housing sites, business sites, industrial sites, central business districts, public building sites, recreational facilities and other locations. The economic development element shall be developed in consultation with and reviewed by the Division of Small Business.

(11) An educational element consistent with the plans of the local school districts which guide the construction and allocation of school facilities within the districts, if such plans exist. This element will be developed with input from the local school districts, the Department of Education, and the Office of State Planning and Coordination. The educational element shall include recommendations for promoting coordination between residential development and adequate school capacity and must take into account any adequate public facilities ordinance or other county code provisions related to school capacity.

(h) The comprehensive plan may include such other elements as may be peculiar to and/or necessary for the area concerned and as are added by the governing body upon the recommendation of the local planning agency.
9 Del. C. § 555 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter II / Section 555
§ Â
        555. Review and approval of data by county engineer.
Status: in_force

Immediately after the determination by the county government that the community in question meets the requirements for a suburban community specified in § 551 of this title, the county government shall notify the county engineer of its determination. Upon receipt of such notice, the county engineer shall promptly review the plans and proposals submitted by the petitioners and the owner or operator of the local water distribution system chosen to install the improvements, and shall notify the county government of his or her approval or disapproval thereof.
9 Del. C. § 6903 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 69 / Subchapter I / Section 6903
§ Â
        6903. Zoning map and regulations.
Status: in_force

(a) For any or all of the purposes specified in § 6902 of this title, the county government may divide the territory of Sussex County into districts or zones of such number, shape, or area as it may determine, and within such districts, or any of them, may regulate the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, and the nature and extent of use of buildings and structures, and the nature and extent of the use of land.

(b) All such regulations shall be uniform for each class or kind of buildings throughout any district, but the regulations in 1 district may differ from those in other districts.

(c) The county government shall provide for the manner in which regulations shall be enforced, prescribe penalties for violations and shall designate the administrator of the regulations. The administrator so designated shall have authority to act as such throughout the County.
9 Del. C. § 5406 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 54 / Section 5406
§ Â
        5406. Conditions precedent to issuance of bonds.
Status: in_force

Before issuing any bonds, the Levy Court shall:

(1) Designate by resolution an area within the County as a “TIF District.”

(2) Receive from the assessor a certification as to the amount of the original assessed value.

(3) Pledge that until the bonds have been fully paid, or thereafter, the property taxes on real property within the TIF District shall be divided and applied as follows:

a. That portion of the taxes which would be produced by the rate at which taxes levied each year by or for the County upon the original assessed value shall be allocated to and when collected paid into the funds of the taxing body in the same manner as taxes by or for the taxing body on all other property are paid.

b. That portion of the taxes representing the levy on the tax increment that would normally be paid to the County shall be paid into a special fund to be applied in accordance with the provisions of § 5408 of this title.

c. That portion of the taxes representing the levy on the tax increment that would normally be paid to a taxing body other than the County shall be allocated to and, when collected, paid into the funds of such taxing body in the same manner as taxes by or for the taxing body on all property are paid, or any other manner that public agencies so determine (school districts, etc.); provided, however, if such taxing body has agreed pursuant to § 5410 of this title that such taxes shall be paid into a special fund created in accordance with § 5407 of this title, then such taxes shall be paid into such special fund.
9 Del. C. § 9106 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 91 / Section 9106
§ Â
        9106. Saturday as legal holiday for New Castle County and City of Wilmington.
Status: in_force

Each Saturday shall be a legal holiday for all elective and appointed officials, deputies, clerks, bailiffs and other employees of New Castle County, including all officials and employees of the government of New Castle County and for all elective officials of the City of Wilmington and for all appointed officers and employees of the Mayor and Council of Wilmington (except members of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security and firefighters).
9 Del. C. § 8751 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 87 / Subchapter III / Section 8751
§ Â
        8751. Return of residue to defendant.
Status: in_force

The residue of property attached, after satisfying the judgment and costs, shall be restored or paid to the defendant without delay.
9 Del. C. § 9412 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 94 / Section 9412
§ Â
        9412. Certification of appointed constables.
Status: in_force

(a) The clerk of the peace shall, within 10 days after the appointment by the government of his or her county of any constable, send by mail to the Auditor of Accounts a true certificate of the name of every such constable, stating therein who is, and who is not, liable to the payment of a fee of $5.00, according to law.

(b) This section shall not apply to the clerk of the peace of New Castle County.
9 Del. C. § 2103 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 21 / Section 2103
§ Â
        2103. Light tax; administration of fund; surplus.
Status: in_force

The Department of Finance of New Castle County shall receive all light taxes collected, shall keep them in a separate account, and shall pay them out only upon orders signed by the County Executive and approved by the Department. The Department shall receive or charge no compensation for the performance of any duty required of it or New Castle County under this chapter, beyond that expressly authorized by § 2102 of this title. If, after payment of all contracts entered into pursuant to this chapter, there remains a surplus in the light account, the surplus shall be applied to reduce the light tax rate for the succeeding taxable year.
9 Del. C. § 2903 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 29 / Section 2903
§ Â
        2903. Department of Land Use; administration and enforcement.
Status: in_force

The Department of Land Use shall have the power and authority to administer and enforce all provisions of the New Castle County Property Maintenance Code as promulgated by the County Council except as otherwise provided for by this chapter or by rule or regulation adopted by County Council.
9 Del. C. § 4502 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter I / Section 4502
§ Â
        4502. Powers of County.
Status: in_force

In addition to the other powers which it has, the County may, under this chapter:

(1) Plan, construct, acquire by gift, purchase, or the exercise of the right of eminent domain, reconstruct, improve, better or extend any water system, and acquire by gift, purchase, or the exercise of the right of eminent domain, land or rights in land in connection therewith;

(2) Operate and maintain any water system and furnish the services and facilities rendered or afforded thereby;

(3) Issue its negotiable or nonnegotiable bonds to finance, either in whole or in part, the cost of the planning, acquisition, purchase, construction, reconstruction, improvement, betterment or extension of any water system, pledging the full faith and credit of the County to the punctual payment of the bonds and the interest thereon;

(4) Pledge to the punctual payment of the bonds and the interest thereon an amount of the revenues derived from the operation of such water system (including the revenues of the existing facilities, if any, comprising a water system which is being improved, bettered, extended or acquired, and the revenues to be derived from any improvements, betterments, extensions, thereafter constructed or acquired), or of any part of any such water system, sufficient to pay, on either equal or priority basis, the bonds and interest as the same become due and create and maintain reasonable reserves therefor, which amount may consist of all or any part or portion of such revenues;

(5) Accept from any authorized agency of the state or federal government, or from persons, firms, or corporations, grants or contributions for the planning, construction, acquisition, lease, reconstruction, improvement, betterment or extension of any water system and enter into agreements with such agency respecting such loans and grants;

(6) Enter into and perform a contract or contracts with any person, municipality, or agency of the state or federal government for the sale, purchase, treatment, purification, transmission or distribution of water.
9 Del. C. § 8319 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 83 / Subchapter I / Section 8319
§ Â
        8319. Reports from those owning or controlling assessable property; procedure; failure to report; penalty.
Status: in_force

(a) Each board of assessment may notify in writing any person who owns property liable to assessment, and every person having the care, management or control of real property liable to assessment, to deliver to the board within 30 days after such notice a particular account of the real property owned by him or her, and of property which is in his or her care, management or control, together with the correct name of such owner and his or her place of residence, with the parcels of real estate separated and identified and such other information as may be required by the board. Such return by the owner or agent in respect to real estate shall be made in the same manner in every year if required by the board. Accompanying such written notices shall be a form of schedule for the making of proper returns.

(b) Each board shall have full power and authority to compel any other or further return as occasion may require for the purpose of making additions, corrections or alterations to the assessment lists.

(c) Whoever fails to render an account, as required, within 10 days after the time limited for the making of his or her return, shall be fined not more than $100.

(d) The board may stay a prosecution for any violation of this section, upon the making and filing of a proper return and the payment of a sum of money not exceeding $10 for the use of the county by the person liable, to be fixed by the board, and the costs of prosecution, if any. A copy of this section shall accompany all written notices under this section.

(e) The forms and schedules for the return of taxable property, provided for herein, shall have appended thereto a form of certificate to be signed by the person making the return, or in case of a firm, association of persons, or corporation, by a member of such firm or association of persons, or by an officer of the corporation duly authorized so to act, that the return as made is a true, full and complete list of all real property liable to assessment and taxation and that the return fairly and truly describes the property and truly represents its true condition. The fact that an individual’s name is signed on a certification attached to a corporate report shall be prima facie evidence that such individual is authorized to certify the report on behalf of the corporation; however, the official title or position of the individual signing the corporate report shall be designated.

(f) Nothing in this section shall be construed to apply to a licensed real estate agent having the care, management or control of, for sale or for rent, property of another in respect to such property.
9 Del. C. § 4159 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter V / Section 4159
§ Â
        4159. Principal and interest payments; taxes.
Status: in_force

(a) The principal of and interest on the bonds shall be payable when due and payable from money appropriated by Kent County.

(b) The county government in fixing the rate of taxation shall annually provide for a sum equal to the amount of such bonds in addition to the amount necessary to pay the interest upon the unpaid bonds as before provided, which shall, when collected and paid to the Receiver of Taxes and County Treasurer be set apart by him or her in a separate account to be opened for that purpose; and the Receiver of Taxes and County Treasurer shall apply the said sum annually to the payments of such part of said loan and interest thereon as may from time to time become due under the provisions of this subchapter.
9 Del. C. § 9118 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 91 / Section 9118
§ Â
        9118. Bond of sheriffs.
Status: in_force

(a) Every sheriff elected or appointed in any of the counties of this State, before entering upon that sheriff’s office, shall, with sufficient surety or sureties, become bound to the State, by a joint and several obligation to be, with the surety or sureties therein, approved by the Judge resident in the county, for which the sheriff had been elected, namely: the Sheriff of New Castle County, $25,000; the Sheriff of Kent County, $14,000; and the Sheriff of Sussex County, $12,000. The bonds shall be given upon condition that “If the Sheriff shall and do well and truly serve and execute all writs and processes to him or her directed, without delay and shall, from time to time, upon request to him or her made for that purpose well and truly pay or cause to be paid to the several suitors and parties interested therein, their lawful agent, factors or assigns, and to the several officers all and every sum or sums of money to them respectively belonging, which shall come to his or her hands or which it shall be his or her duty to collect and receive, and receive, collect, and pay over all public taxes whatsoever committed to him or her for collection, and shall do from time to time, and at all times during his or her continuation in office, of Sheriff, well and faithfully execute the office and perform in everything the duty in him or her reposed, and the Sheriff shall truly and without delay pay over to the County Treasurer or the Director of Finance all the fees which it shall be his or her duty to collect, and which are to be paid to the County Treasurer or the Director of Finance, then the bond to be void, otherwise to be and remain in full force and virtue.” This bond shall be entered at large upon the continuance record of the Superior Court of the same county at the time it is taken, and the approval of the surety or sureties and of the bond shall appear on the record.

(b) If any sheriff neglects so to enter into such bond such sheriff shall, ipso facto, forfeit his or her office. The prothonotary shall forthwith certify such neglect to the Governor, who shall thereupon appoint another person, being an inhabitant of the same county, to fill the vacancy until the next general election and qualification of a successor. The Governor shall duly notify the prothonotary of every appointment of a sheriff to fill a vacancy.
9 Del. C. § 8363 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 83 / Subchapter II / Section 8363
§ Â
        8363. Mobile homes owned by residents over 65 years of age.
Status: in_force

A resident of Delaware, as defined by § 8131 of this title over the age of 65 and having an income not in excess of $3,000 per year, may apply for a waiver of tax on a mobile home, to an assessed valuation not exceeding as established by County Council, in which said person resides and which said person owns, except that: (1) No such exemption shall be in addition to any other exemption to which said person may be entitled, and (2) no such exemption shall be permitted where said person’s spouse lives in said mobile home and has an income in excess of $3,000 per year. This waiver may be applied for on forms prescribed by the Department of Land Use of New Castle County or the Board of Assessment for Kent County or the Board of Assessment for Sussex County and provided for the use of the claimants hereunder by the governing body of the taxing district in which such claim is to be filed. Upon verification of the taxpayer’s claim, the above-mentioned assessment offices shall issue an annual numbered waiver in triplicate. One copy shall be given to the owner of the mobile home, 1 copy shall be mailed to the operator of a mobile home park in which the trailer is domiciled and the third copy shall be retained and filed by the above-mentioned assessment offices. The operator of the mobile home park, upon making the monthly report and tax payments, shall note the name and waiver number of those residents who qualify for this tax exemption.
9 Del. C. § 6906 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 69 / Subchapter I / Section 6906
§ Â
        6906. Assistance from and cooperation with other agencies.
Status: in_force

In performing its zoning function the Commission may make use of the expert advice and information which may be furnished by appropriate state, federal, or other officials, departments and agencies. All officials, departments, and agencies within the State having information, maps and data pertinent to county zoning shall make the same available for the use of the Commission, as well as furnish such other technical assistance and advice as they may have available for such purpose.
9 Del. C. § 2611 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 26 / Subchapter I / Section 2611
§ Â
        2611. Conflict between zoning regulations and other laws.
Status: in_force

Whenever any regulation made under authority of this subchapter requires a greater width or size of yards, courts or other open spaces, or requires a lower height of buildings or smaller number of stories, or requires a greater percentage of lot to be left unoccupied, or imposes other higher standards than are required in or under any other statute or local regulation, the regulations made under authority of this subchapter shall govern. Whenever any other statute or local regulation requires a greater width or size of yards, courts or other open spaces, or requires a lower height of buildings or a lesser number of stories, or requires a greater percentage of lot to be left unoccupied, or imposes other higher standards than are required by any regulations made under authority of this subchapter, such statute shall govern.
9 Del. C. § 6515 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 65 / Section 6515
§ Â
        6515. Rules and regulations governing use of sewage disposal and water facilities.
Status: in_force

The county government may promulgate from time to time, and enforce such rules and regulations, as may be necessary, governing the use of the whole or any parts of such sewerage or water systems or sewage treatment plants constructed under their control, either within or without the district.
9 Del. C. § 653 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 6 / Subchapter IV / Section 653
§ Â
        653. Payment and retirement of bonds.
Status: in_force

Prior to the time of the retirement of the bonds, or any of them, or the time when interest shall become payable thereon, the county government shall make available sufficient funds in a state or national bank where the principal and interest are payable, to cover the retirement of such bonds or the payment of interest thereon.
9 Del. C. § 106 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 1 / Section 106
§ Â
        106. Hundreds in Kent County.
Status: in_force

Kent County is divided into 9 hundreds, as follows: Duck Creek, East Dover, West Dover, Kenton, Little Creek, Milford, Mispillion, North Murderkill and South Murderkill.
9 Del. C. § 8773 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 87 / Subchapter IV / Section 8773
§ Â
        8773. Return of sale; deed upon approval of sale.
Status: in_force

Every sale of lands and tenements shall be returned by the tax collecting authority to the Superior Court for the county, at the next term thereof, and the Court shall inquire into the circumstances, and either approve the sale, or set it aside. If it be approved, the tax collecting authority making the sale shall make a deed to the purchaser which shall convey the title of the taxable, or of his or her alienee, as the case may be; if it be set aside, the Court may order another sale, and so on until the tax due be collected. The certificate filed, together with the return and deed, shall be presumptive evidence of the regularity of the proceedings.
9 Del. C. § 4621 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4621
§ Â
        4621. Order to connect to sewer; enforcement.
Status: in_force

(a) The county government may, where it deems it necessary to the preservation of public health, order the owner of any lot or parcel of land within a district or extension thereof which abuts upon a street or right-of-way containing a sewer which is part of or served by the county sewage system, and upon which lot or parcel of land a building shall have been constructed for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect such building with such sewer.

(b) If any owner shall fail to comply within 60 days with such order to connect with such sewer, the county government may forthwith institute action in any Justice of the Peace Court or may institute a summary action in the Superior Court to compel compliance with such order.
9 Del. C. § 1397 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter V / Section 1397
§ Â
        1397. Subpoena power.
Status: in_force

(a) Whenever the County Attorney has reasonable cause to believe that any person or enterprise may have knowledge of, has been engaged in or is engaging in any conduct in violation of County laws, ordinances, regulations or any state law prohibiting violations of County laws, ordinances or regulations, the County Attorney may, in the County Attorney’s discretion, conduct an investigation of such conduct. The County Attorney is authorized before the commencement of any civil or criminal proceeding related to the violation of county laws, ordinances, regulations or any state law prohibiting violations of the County laws, ordinances or regulations to subpoena witnesses. The County Attorney may issue in writing and cause to be served on any person an investigative demand to compel the attendance of witnesses, examine witnesses under oath, require the production of evidence or documentary materials and require answers to written interrogatories to be furnished under oath.

(b) The production of documentary material in response to an investigative demand served under this section shall be made pursuant to a sworn certificate, in such form as the demand designates, by the person, if a natural person, to whom the demand is directed or, if not a natural person, by an individual having knowledge of the facts and circumstances relating to the production of materials, which certificate shall affirm that all of the documentary material required by the investigative demand and in the possession, custody or control of the person to whom the demand is directed has been produced and made available to the custodian.

(c) The County Attorney may, in the County Attorney’s discretion, require the production under this section of documentary materials prior to the taking of any testimony of the person subpoenaed. The required documentary materials shall be made available for inspection or copying during normal business hours at the principal place of business of the person served, or at such other time and place as may be agreed upon between the person served and the County Attorney.

(d) The examination of all persons pursuant to this section shall be conducted by the County Attorney or by a person designated in writing to be the County Attorney’s representative, before an officer chosen by the County Attorney who is authorized to administer oaths in this State. The statements made shall be taken down stenographically, or by a sound-recording device, and shall be transcribed.

(e) No person shall, with intent to avoid, evade, prevent or obstruct compliance in whole or in part by any person with any duly served investigative demand of the County Attorney under this section, knowingly remove to any place, conceal, withhold, destroy, mutilate, alter or by any other means falsify any documentary material or materials that are the subject of the demand. A violation of this subsection is a class E felony. Any suspected violations of this section shall be referred to the Office of the Attorney General.

(f) In the event a witness subpoenaed under this section fails or refuses to appear, or to produce documentary materials as provided herein, or to give testimony relevant or material to an investigation, the County Attorney may petition the Superior Court in the County where the witness resides for an order requiring the witness to attend and testify, or to produce the documentary materials. Any failure or refusal by the witness to obey an order of the Court may be punishable by the Court as contempt.
9 Del. C. § 3215 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 32 / Section 3215
§ Â
        3215. Construction of chapter.
Status: in_force

This chapter, being necessary for the welfare of the State and its residents, shall be liberally construed to effect the purpose of this chapter.
9 Del. C. § 1372 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 13 / Subchapter V / Section 1372
§ Â
        1372. Sworn information.
Status: in_force

The Chief Financial Officer may require from any officer or employee of the County, or any claimant, such sworn information as may be necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Office.
9 Del. C. § 8359 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 83 / Subchapter II / Section 8359
§ Â
        8359. Repeal of inconsistent laws.
Status: repealed

All statutes of this State, or parts thereof, in conflict with this subchapter are repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.
9 Del. C. § 3313 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 33 / Section 3313
§ Â
        3313. Special taxes on real property as alternative to ad valorem taxes.
Status: in_force

(a) As an alternative to levying ad valorem taxes under this chapter, county council may levy special taxes on real property in a special development district to cover the cost of infrastructure improvements, including but not limited to costs defined in § 3301(3) of this title. In determining the basis for and amount of the tax, the cost of an improvement may be calculated and levied:

(1) Equally per front foot, lot, parcel, dwelling unit, or square foot;

(2) According to the value of the property as determined by the county, with or without regard to improvements on the property; or

(3) In any other reasonable manner that results in fairly allocating the cost of the infrastructure improvements.

(b) County council may provide by ordinance or resolution for:

(1) A maximum amount to be assessed with respect to any parcel of real property located within a special development district;

(2) A tax year or other date after which no further special taxes under this section shall be levied or collected on a parcel; and

(3) The circumstances under which the special tax levied against any parcel may be increased, if at all, as a consequence of delinquency or default by the owner of that parcel or any other parcel within the special development district.

(c) County council by ordinance or resolution may establish procedures allowing for the prepayment of special taxes under this section.

(d) Special taxes levied under this subsection shall be collected and secured in the same manner as general ad valorem real property taxes unless otherwise provided in the ordinance or resolution and shall be subject to the same penalties and the same procedure, sale, and lien priority in case of delinquency as is provided for general ad valorem real property taxes.
9 Del. C. § 4639 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 46 / Section 4639
§ Â
        4639. Contents of notice of sale â Award of bonds at single interest rate.
Status: in_force

Unless the notice of sale permits the naming of more than 1 rate of interest, as hereinafter provided, it shall state that all the bonds bid for shall bear a single rate of interest and, in case of a sale of more than 1 issue, after describing the separate issues, shall state the combined maturities as if such combined maturities constituted a single issue. The notice of sale shall state that the bonds will be awarded to the bidder offering the lowest interest rate and, as between bidders offering the same lowest rate, to the bidder who offers to pay the highest cash premium.
9 Del. C. § 8745 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 87 / Subchapter III / Section 8745
§ Â
        8745. Affidavit of defense; time limit.
Status: in_force

The defendant in any attachment whose property has been attached at any time before the expiration of 10 days after the return of attachment may file in the court or with the justice of the peace where the writ is returnable an affidavit denying the demand of the plaintiff in whole or in part.
9 Del. C. § 711 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 7 / Subchapter II / Section 711
§ Â
        711. Filing of petition.
Status: in_force

Such organization petition should be filed in the office of the clerk of the county government or clerk of the peace.
9 Del. C. § 6810 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 68 / Section 6810
§ Â
        6810. Submission of road plats to Commission; recording; fees; regulations.
Status: in_force

(a) The location, proposed grades and drainage of all roads intended to be dedicated by the owner thereof to the public use or for the use of owners of property abutting thereon or adjacent thereto within the limits of the District shall be submitted to the Commission for its approval and the adoption of the county government and no person shall record any plan or map showing the location of any new or proposed road in any public office in Sussex County unless such plan or map shall show thereon by endorsement its approval by the Commission and its adoption by the county government. The approval of such plan or map by the Commission and the adoption thereof by the county government endorsed upon such plan or map shall, when recorded, be deemed and taken as an acceptance of the intended dedication of the roads appearing thereon, but shall not impose any duty upon the county government or upon the Department of Transportation respecting the maintenance or improvement thereof. Such plan or map shall, when recorded, become a part of the official map. The Commission may adopt and the county government may approve such regulations as are deemed advisable for the removal of snow from the streets appearing on the plan from the time the plan is recorded until the obligation to maintain such improvements is assumed either by a maintenance corporation or by an appropriate public agency.

(b) No plat of land within the District shall be received or recorded by the Recorder of Deeds in and for Sussex County or filed for recording in the Recorder’s office until the plat shall have been submitted to and approved by the Commission after public hearing and approved by the county government, and such approvals be endorsed in writing on the plat by the Chair or Secretary of the Commission and President of the county government. The filing or recording of a plat without the approval of the Commission and the county government shall, upon application of the Commission or the county government, to the Superior Court in and for Sussex County, Delaware, be deleted from the records.

(c) On the basis of the estimated cost of the services including filing fees and cost of legal notice to be rendered by it in connection with the consideration of such plats and the work incident thereto, the Commission may fix the scale of fees to be paid to it and may from time to time amend such scale. In the case of each plat submitted to the Commission, the fee thus fixed shall be paid before the plat is approved or disapproved.

(d) Every such plat shall be prepared by a registered professional engineer or land surveyor and shall be prepared upon stabilized plastic film of such size and character, with such notations, information as the Commission may, by regulation prescribe, and shall have such monuments, permanent markers, boundary stones or stations as the Commission shall prescribe, which shall be shown and designated on the plat thereof. The Commission shall also require a certification by the registered professional engineer or land surveyor that the monuments, permanent markers, boundary stones or stations have been properly installed and verified as to final location at the completion of the project. The Commission shall prescribe the procedure for the submission of such plat and action in respect thereto.
9 Del. C. § 572 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 5 / Subchapter II / Section 572
§ Â
        572. Lien book; preparation and distribution.
Status: in_force

(a) Within 30 days after the passage of the resolution referred to in § 571 of this title, the county government shall prepare books, in triplicate, containing the following information:

(1) The name of each freeholder in the suburban community;

(2) The amount of foot frontage of each freeholder abutting on the improvement or improvements so contemplated;

(3) The total amount, in dollars, of the special assessment or levy against the property of each freeholder; and

(4) The proportionate annual amount of payment, in dollars, of the special assessment or levy.

(b) The books shall be entitled “Suburban Community Lien Book,” specifying the name of the suburban community.

(c) One of the books shall be retained by the county government, 1 shall be placed in the office of the prothonotary of the county in which the suburban community is situated, and another shall be placed in the office of the receiver of taxes and county treasurer in the county.
9 Del. C. § 6507 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 65 / Section 6507
§ Â
        6507. Action of county government following election favoring establishment of district.
Status: in_force

(a) If the majority of the voters are in favor of establishing the sanitary sewer district, the county government shall within 30 days following the election, issue a determination to that effect which shall contain a description of the district. The county government shall file a certified copy of the determination with the Clerk of the county government.

(b) Within 12 months after the election, the county government shall authorize the County Engineer and the county government attorney to procure the necessary land and rights-of-way by purchase, agreement, or by condemnation in accordance with existing laws, and shall authorize the County Engineer to prepare maps, plans, specifications and estimates for any or all structures required to provide for the installation of sewers or water systems, and to let contracts for, supervise the construction and maintenance of, or the enlarging or remodeling of such systems, and to carry on such other activities as may be required by this chapter or considered necessary to perform the duties prescribed in this chapter.
9 Del. C. § 4123 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 41 / Subchapter II / Section 4123
§ Â
        4123. Department of Finance.
Status: in_force

(a) Department of Finance, general. — There shall be a Department of Finance under the direction of the County Administrator which shall be responsible for the administration of the budgeting, accounting, purchasing, treasury, and other financial affairs of Kent County.

(b) Director of Finance. — The Director of Finance shall be the head of the Department of Finance. The Levy Court shall appoint the Director of Finance and fix the Director’s compensation.

(c) Former functions, duties, and powers of the County Comptroller. — The Department of Finance, under the authority of the Director of Finance, shall perform all of the functions assigned to and possess all of the duties and powers previously held by the County Comptroller, including all of the following:

(1) Audit the accounts of the county government.

(2) Countersign all warrants drawn by order of the county government for the payment of money.

(3) During January and July of each year, audit, inspect, and examine the books, accounts, papers, records, and dockets of the clerk of the peace, sheriff, recorder, register of wills, and other county officers and confirm the amount paid to the County in fees.

(4) Annually examine the books of all public institutions within the County that are supported wholly or in part by the County and issue a written report to the county government containing the result of such examination.

(5) Keep a record of accounts, in which shall be entered all items of expenditure, all warrants drawn, to whom made payable, and for what particular work or other cause. All written contracts made by the county government shall be deposited in the Department’s custody and the Department shall enter all such contracts upon its records.

(6) Before countersigning any warrant, inquire into and carefully investigate. To fulfill this duty, the Director of Finance may issue summons for the attendance of witnesses, compel the production of books and papers pertinent to the transaction, administer oaths and affirmations, and ascertain the truth of the transaction inquired into.

(7) Audit and mark “correct” all bills before allowance by the county government. No bill shall be passed by the county government without such an endorsement by the Department. If the Director refuses to allow any item of expenditure, to countersign any warrant, or to endorse any bill, the Director shall immediately transmit to the county government the Director’s reasons for refusal in writing. The county government shall consider the Director’s reasons for refusal and may, by a vote of the majority of the elected officials of the county government, overrule the Director’s refusal. If the Director’s refusal is overruled, the Director shall allow the expenditure and countersign the warrant, or endorse the bill in conformity with the judgment of the majority of the elected officials of the county government.

(8) Adopt and use a facsimile of the Director’s signature as provided by Chapter 54 of Title 29.
9 Del. C. § 306 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 3 / Subchapter I / Section 306
§ Â
        306. Agritourism activities on farms.
Status: in_force

(a) “Agritourism activity” means any activity that allows members of the general public to view or enjoy rural activities, including: farming; ranching; wineries; historical, cultural or harvest-your-own activities; guided or self-guided tours; bed and breakfast accommodations; or temporary outdoor recreation activities. “Agritourism activity” includes, but is not limited to: planting, cultivation, irrigation or harvesting of crops; acceptable practices of animal husbandry; barn parties or farm festivals; livestock activities, not to include rodeos; hunting; fishing; swimming; boating, canoeing or kayaking; temporary camping; picnicking; hiking; diving; water skiing or tubing; paintball; and nonmotorized freestyle, mountain or off-road bicycling. An activity is an agritourism activity whether or not the participant paid to participate in the activity.

(b) Agritourism activities may be allowed statewide on farms of 10 or more acres subject to the provisions of this title adopted for each county; provided, however, that except for the “related uses” specified in § 909 of Title 3, no agritourism activities shall be permitted on farmlands which are subject to the Agricultural Lands Preservation and Forestland Preservation programs established in Chapter 9 of Title 3.
9 Del. C. § 4525 — Delaware Code / Title 9 / Chapter 45 / Subchapter II / Section 4525
§ Â
        4525. Posting of monition; sheriffâs return; alias or pluries monition.
Status: in_force

(a) The monition, or a copy thereof, shall be posted by the sheriff upon some prominent place or part of the property against which the judgment for the service charges is a lien, and the sheriff shall make due and proper return of the sheriff’s proceedings under the monition to the prothonotary, within 10 days after the posting of the monition.

(b) Alias or pluries monition may issue upon like praecipe. The posting of the notice as herein required shall constitute notice to the owner or owners and all persons having any interest in the property.