Codes Enforcement

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Primary Enforcement Processes

In order to decide the appropriate process, consideration is given to the extent and nature of the violation(s), including any potential health or safety hazards. Investigators always operate as impartial officials professionally photographing and documenting violations with no ties to the neighborhood or the defendant. There are three primary enforcement actions to encourage and achieve compliance:

  • Civil Citation Process—For common issues involving homeowners and simple fines.
  • Code Enforcement Board (CEB)—For larger issues involving hearings and liens.
  • Municipal Ordinance Violation (MOV)—Formal judicial process involving the County Court.

How Enforcement Works

Each process requires the City to notify the violator/owner that a violation exists, and to provide a reasonable amount of time to comply. A notice of violation is not required for repeat or irreparable violations. 

For cases of unsafe structures, overgrown vegetation, or junk and debris on the vacant property, the City may take actions, such as securing, condemnation, or lot clearing, to correct violations if an owner fails to respond to a notice within a specified time. The City will then assess the property for the costs of these actions. Read more on the details about Codes Compliance Assistance Legal Actions.

Enforcement Areas

The Codes Compliance Assistance Department (CCAD) maintains the quality and extends the life of existing housing in order to stabilize neighborhoods and protect the community. They fulfill this role by educating property owners and enforcing the city codes, including zoning issues, housing, vegetation and maintenance standards.