If a violation is identified, the property owner will be contacted and required to remove the violation and/or obtain permits. Depending on the nature of the violation, property owners will be given a time frame in the Code Enforcement notification to correct the violation.
Compliance is Our Goal
Code Enforcement uses a variety of tools to help achieve compliance.
Education Our primary option is education, since many individuals may be unaware that they have a violation. Our team will work with the responsible party to provide a time frame to resolve the issue(s) without a penalty.
Administrative Citations for non-compliance, in the amount of $100 - $500.
Civil Penalties This remedy is used for major violations. Penalties of up to $500 per day, per violation may be assessed after an administrative hearing.
Abatement This remedy is used where the City need to abate a public nuisance. Unpaid costs can result in a property lien.
Judicial Remedies For certain cases, criminal prosecution or civil injunction may be sought.
Code Enforcement Steps
- Visual exterior inspection or Consent to Inspect letter mailed for interior inspection
- Notice of Violation Letter mailed (reasonable time given to resolve violation)
- Failure to Abate Letter mailed (reasonable time given to resolve violation)
- Notice of Non-Compliance recorded on property title
- Administrative Hearing to serve fines and penalties for violations on property
- Courtesy and Violation letters clearly state alleged/confirmed violation(s) and provide required steps to resolve the violation(s).
- Permit to resolve violation can be obtained through Planning and Economic Development upon approval of assigned Code Enforcement Staff.
- To close a case, a compliance inspection is required after violation has been resolved.
Permit Resources
Permit Santa Rosa
Building Permit Information
Encroachment Permit Information
Check the Status of a Complaint or Permit
Access the Citizen Portal to search open Enforcement cases or to search Permit applications/permits.