CODE ENFORCEMENT

The Code Enforcement Division is charged with maintaining and improving the character, aesthetic quality and property values within the City by notifying property owners of conditions of violation observed on properties. The Division maintains and improves the City's residential and commercial neighborhoods through the enforcement of codes pertaining to such matters as public nuisances, property maintenance, zoning, building, health and safety, and signage.

Code Enforcement is an important component of a city's effort to improve, preserve, and maintain those qualities that residents and businesses find to be desirable or important. Working in conjunction with other departments in the City, Code Enforcement staff responds to requests for service from the community and maintains compliance with laws, regulations, and permits over which they have authority, in the process significantly improving the appearance of the community.

When a violation occurs, staff applies an education-based approach to assist residents and business owners in quickly resolving a violation and discouraging future violations. However, despite these efforts, violations inevitably occur. In situations where property/business owners fail to acknowledge the violation or initiate corrective measures in a reasonable time, Code Enforcement staff can respond with a variety of escalating enforcement options. These options can include:

• the commencement of a nuisance abatement action
• the issuance of Administrative Citations carrying fines that can range from $100 to $500
• the filing of criminal or civil complaints in the Superior Court

Resources

Code Enforcement Trifold (English) 

Code Enforcement Trifold (Spanish)

Visit our FAQ page

A Quality Community Begins With You

Well-maintained homes are essential components of a healthy community. Preserving our housing stock, maintaining property values, and ensuring our properties are healthy and safe, not only benefit individual property owners and tenants but also the community at large.

Temporary Signage and Outdoor Promotion

The City Council adopted new standards to increase the amount of time temporary signage can be displayed and the types of temporary signage allowed at Lake Forest businesses. For more information regarding the temporary signage and outdoor promotions including videos, brochures, and permit applications, visit Lake Forest Business.