San Gabriel: Clean and Green- A New Day Dawns

Enhanced Code Enforcement Strategy Begins January, 2008

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is enhanced code enforcement?

In order to improve the speed and efficiency of code enforcement activities, City ordinances now permit code enforcement officers to issue administrative citations for certain types of routine code violations.

How does it work?

When our code enforcement staff receives a complaint concerning a code violation on a property, an inspector will determine whether there is a violation of the law. 

If there is a violation, and the violator fails to remedy the problem, the code enforcement officer may issue a citation which requires the violator to pay a fine.

The City will always encourage voluntary compliance and cooperation as a first course of action.

What types of violations are most likely to be subject to citation?

Examples of some of the violations that are most likely to be subject to an administrative citation are:

• Overgrown vegetation and weeds
• Refuse, junk and debris
• Signs without permits (banners, portable signs, window signs)
• Prohibited signs
• Illegal merchandise displays
• Trash containers stored in public view
• Conducting business without permits
• Animal code violations
• Health, housing, and building code violations

How much are the fines?

• For zoning and similar code violations, a first violation is fined up to $100;
• The second violation is fined up to $200;
• The third violation is fined up to $500.
• For violations of building and safety codes, the first violation is fined up to $100;
• The second violation is fined up to $500;
• Subsequent violations are fined up to $1,000.
• Each and every day a violation exists constitutes a separate and distinct offense.

What if I fail to pay my citation?

• The law permits the City to collect the fines and related costs and may place a lien on the affected property.
• The City retains its rights to criminally prosecute code violations in the courts.
• Full details are contained in the San Gabriel Municipal Code at Chapter 11, Title 1 (Sec. 11.01 through 11.21).

Do I have rights?

• As with any law, you as a citizen have both rights and responsibilities.
• These include the right to appeal citations before an impartial administrative Hearing Officer.
• Should you lose an appeal, you will forfeit the posted civil fine.
• You may also obtain review of the Hearing Officer’s final decision by filing a petition for a writ of mandate in the Los Angeles Superior Court.

When does this take place?

The law was effective on August 17, 2007 but the City will not begin enforcement under this procedure until January 1, 2008 so that the community may become better acquainted with the law.

How can I get more information?

• Contact Neighborhood Improvement Services at 626.308.2800, ext. 4636, for more information and handouts.
• Read the ordinance online at http://www.sangabrielcity.com/cityhall/clerkmuncode.shtml
• Obtain a copy of the ordinance, Ordinance No. 569-C.S., from the City Clerk’s office at 626.308.2800, ext. 4601.
• Download a copy of the brochure in PDF format by clicking here.