When a code inspector confirms a code violation, they issue a Notice of Violation (NOV). The Notice of Violation includes the list of violations found, the corrective actions needed, and a timeline. If more time is required to complete corrective actions, the assigned code inspector may be able to grant an extension.
I received a Notice of Violation. Now what?
After a code violation is confirmed, code inspectors will issue a Notice of Violation (NOV) to the responsible party - usually the property owner. A Notice of Violation is not a citation, and it does not include a fine. Instead, the goal of an NOV is to:
- educate the responsible party about relevant City codes
- inform them of the actions they need to take to make their property safe
- give a timeframe in which they must complete those actions
The Notice of Violation includes the name and contact information for the assigned code inspector. It also includes a case number. The assigned inspector is a resource and can respond to questions about the NOV, provide guidance on corrective actions, and address concerns about the follow-up process and timeline. If more time is required to complete the corrective actions, the inspector may be able to work with you to grant an extension, depending on the circumstances.
If violations are resolved within the stated timeframe (including any agreed-upon extensions), it is called “voluntary compliance.” There is generally no associated fine or resulting citation.
What if I don’t fix the violation within the timeframe?
If a code violation does not get resolved (and an extension is not requested or granted), the case is escalated to enforcement. The kind of enforcement depends on the type and severity of the code violation.
Violations that involve unsanitary conditions, such as tall grass and weeds or accumulated trash, may be subject to abatement. This means that DSD Code Compliance will clean up the property and the property owner will be responsible for the cost. Violations of this kind can pose health and safety risks to property residents and the surrounding community. The abatement process is designed to protect everyone’s health and safety.
Other types of enforcement include Administrative Hearings, the Building and Standards Commission, and Municipal Court. These proceedings can involve fees and may result in fines and/or orders to resolve the violation.
