The Code Enforcement section has grown tremendously since its inception in 1990. When our department was created our responsibilities were limited to trash, high grass, errant dogs, and junked vehicles. Since then our responsibilities have increased to provide a number of services which include:
- An up to date list of homes for sale.
- Issuing various permits and licenses.
- Providing housing inspections for apartments and rental homes.
- Creating a Penalties & Fine Schedule.
- Maintaining and enforcing the many Codes of the City.
- Working with the Police Department to impound vehicles in violation.
The duties and responsibilities of the Code enforcement office are now divided into 2 sections; Field Work and Administrative Duties. We are now able to issue building permits, Commercial and Residential Business Licenses, Day Care Licenses and Rental Licenses within city limits.
As the city continues to grow, the Code Enforcement Depatment continues to grow with as well. We are constantly looking for new and improved ways to enforce the laws that has allowed our community to thrive even in the face of adversity.
Housing
The following is a listing of the most common housing violations found during a code enforcement inspection of the interior of a property.
- Plumbing, electric, HVAC, structural finish work
- Unsanitary conditions
- Overcrowded conditions
- Dwelling units unfit for human habitation
- Unsafe buildings
- Smoke detectors: not operable or installed on each floor
- Carbon Monoxide inspections
- Pest infestation
The following is a listing of the most common housing violations found during a code enforcement inspection of the exterior of a property.
- Vacant structures not secured or maintained to code standard
- Roof, gutters and downspouts, chimneys, porches and stairways
- Siding, windows, doors, foundation
- Exposed and untreated wood surfaces
- Accessory structures: garages, sheds and fences
- Sidewalks
- Yard maintenance
- Dead or unsafe trees
Building
The following is a listing of the most common building violations found during a code enforcement inspection of a property.
- Altering or building structures without permits or registration certificates
- Home improvement contractors performing work without licenses
Health/Sanitation/Safety
The following is a listing of the most common health, sanitation and safety code violations found during a code enforcement inspection of a property.
- Sanitary maintenance of premises
- Solid waste
- Noxious weeds / High grass
- Animal maintenance
- Rodents, insects, vermin and other pests
COMMERCIAL LICENSE
Owners and renters of property in the City of District Heights, interested in conducting a bonafide business, must be properly licensed by the City. A commercial business license is required by City Ordinance. The business license shall be renewed on an annual basis. Submitting your application triggers an inspection from Code Enforcement. License applications can be obtained in office or by calling the Code Enforcement Office.
Commercial business license must be approved by the City Commission prior to County approval.
USE & OCCUPANCY PERMITS
A Certificate of Occupancy (or Use and Occupancy Permit) is required for every tenant, change of tenant, or when a change of use occurs at a business property and construction is not required. Every business in the City of District Heights is required to obtain a Use & Occupancy (U&O) Permit issued by the County/City before business operation may begin.
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