The Code Enforcement Division, of the Placer County Building Department, investigates reports of County land use code violations. Code enforcement activities are complaint-driven. This means Placer County relies on residents and visitors to make the County aware of potential violations.

When Code Enforcement receives a written report of a code violation - Complaint Form - the division investigates the complaint in determining if a violation exists. If no violation exists, the reporting party is contacted and advised of the findings. If a violation of County code is identified, code enforcement staff complete the defined processes in resolving the violation.

The County also has a dispute resolution service available to County residents. It may prove useful, especially in resolving disputes between neighbors.

Placer County encourages voluntary compliance in all instances. Negotiated compliance timelines are encouraged understanding not all issues are the same.

In cases where voluntary compliance is not successful, Code Enforcement may issue a citation requiring the property owner attend Superior Court. If found guilty, the Judge may assess a fine or penalty including court costs. These fines and/or penalties may include the cost of correcting the violation. Code Enforcement may also recover the administrative costs associated with the enforcement of the case.

Here are examples of common code enforcement situations:

• Excessive open storage of materials or trash;
• Excessive numbers of vehicles or abandoned vehicles;
• Excessive numbers of animals and enclosure locations (dogs, horses, cats, etc.);
• Illegal second residences;
• Using recreational vehicles/ Travel trailers as a residences;
• Business activity in an area not zoned for that activity (e.g. auto repair in a residential area);
• Swimming pool without benefit of the appropriate barriers/fencing.

If you have a question about a possible code violation, please contact Code Enforcement.