Multifamily and Single Family Enforcement

The Code Enforcement Process

An inspection is made in response to citizen complaints, official referrals, scheduled inspections, or as part of an overall departmental "cleanup" strategy in communities. Should violations be found during the inspection, the Code Official issues a notice of violation to the owner or responsible person for the property. The owner has a specified amount of time to correct the violations.

Minimum Requirements for Dwelling Units

• All exterior property and premises should be maintained in a clean, safe and sanitary condition.
• All exterior walls should be free from holes, breaks and loose or rotting materials.
• Exterior wood surfaces should be painted or covered with a protective treatment.
• Peeling, flaking and chipped paint should be removed and surfaces repainted.
• All surfaces with rust or corrosion should be coated with a protective treatment.
• The exterior property should be free from weeds, grasses, annual plants and vegetation in excess of twelve inches.
• Plant growth must not obstruct walkways, sidewalks, streets, adjoining driveways and/or the house numbers identifying the address of the dwelling.
• All structures and exterior property should be free from rodent infestation.
• Open storage of any household appliance, motor vehicle parts, building materials, furniture, weeds dead trees, garbage or similar item is prohibited.
• All sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways and parking spaces should be kept free of unsafe and hazardous conditions.
• It is unlawful to have more than one motor vehicle that is wrecked, dismantled, inoperable or unlicensed on your premises. The one that is allowed must be inside a closed garage.
• The property must be maintained free of graffiti.
• Gutters and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions.
• Firewood stored on a property must be neatly stacked and a minimum of 18'' above the ground or 6'' above an approved weed free surface.
• Swimming pools on the property must be maintained in good working order.
• Fences must be maintained in good condition and fence gates must be operational.
• Yards must be stabilized (grass of other approved cover) and graded to prevent accumulation of water.
• Stairway, decks and/or balconies must be maintained in a safe condition.
• All glass in windows and doors must be free of cracks or voids.
• Windows that can be opened must be operable and remain open by the window hardware.

How to File a Complaint

If you would like to make a complaint, please call the Property Standards Group at (301)-883-6100 or fax requests to (301)-883-6050. Written complaints should be submitted to:

When calling, you will be asked to provide the address of the property in question, and a brief description of the alleged violation.

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