What Is Code Enforcement?

Probably in violation of city code

According to authorities in DeSoto County, Florida, code enforcement is defined as "that branch of a local governing body responsible for the enforcement of that body's civil codes and ordinances."

Function

Code enforcement's purpose is to improve the safety, health and welfare of all citizens living within local governmental jurisdictions. Counties and municipalities have the authority to impose administrative fines when a code violation persists.

Procedure

While every governing body has its own procedures for noncompliance, it is common to issue notices of violation to the property owner. If there is no cooperation within a given time frame, either abatement processes commence or fines are imposed.

Identification

Common code violations include development without permits, accumulation of garbage, overgrown vegetation, dilapidated or abandoned buildings and the storage of unlicensed vehicles.

Other Codes

Code-enforcement policies, such as those of Littleton, Colorado, also regulate home-based businesses, residential outdoor storage and even sidewalk snow removal.

Considerations

Effective code enforcement ensures a positive effect upon property values, and helps cities and counties to age without buildings and neighborhoods becoming eyesores. Code-enforcement policies operate on the principle that adherence to codes and ordinances is the responsibility of every citizen.

References

• DeSoto County, Florida: What is Code Enforcement?
• City of Fayetteville, Arkansas: Code Compliance
• City of Littleton, Colorado: What is code enforcement?