Code Enforcement

Code Enforcement staff generally respond within one business day of receiving a complaint. 

Yes, a report can be submitted anonymously. Reporting party information is kept confidential during our investigation of the alleged violation, and also when the case is closed. (Please note if there is a public records request related to the violation, we may be required to release the information.)

The Sustainability & Resilience Department's Code Enforcement program is intended to be educational, not punitive. Staff aim to help community members resolve issues quickly in order to protect our environment and help prevent future violations.

• Complaint Received: Reports are received via phone, email, or the City's app SBConnect.
• Investigation: Code Enforcement staff inspect location to confirm complaint.
• Notification Process: Staff make contact with property or business owner/management to inform them of the code violation, how to correct the violation, and best management practices (BMPs) to prevent future violations. A reasonable timeline is set to abate the violation. If compliance isn’t achieved, an enforcement case is opened and a Notice of Violation is mailed to responsible party. 
• Case Closed: Once the violation is corrected, the code enforcement case will be closed. A repeat violation within one year may be subject to fines.
• City Attorney Referral: If there is no response or goodwill effort to correct the code violation, repeat offenses, or an egregious violation, the case may be referred to the City Attorney’s Office (this rarely occurs).