Enforcement Case Studies

San Diego uses a three-part strategy comprised of both positive incentives and sanctions. Part One is a Landlord Training Program, administered by the Police Department, which provides landlords in high-crime neighborhoods with advice and assistance on how to prevent vandalism and other criminal activity in vacant units or structures.

Part Two entails a Notice of Intent Process. When the Neighborhood Code Compliance Department becomes aware of a vacant and unsecured structure- by citizen complaint, code sweep, or other means- an Abatement Notice and Order is sent to the property owner directing abatement by cleaning and securing. The owner is given 30 days to submit a Statement of Intent- a plan and timeline describing the expected period of vacancy, a plan for regular maintenance during vacancy, and a plan and timeline for the lawful occupancy, rehabilitation, or demolition of the structure.

In Part Three owners of vacant properties are contacted by the city's Vacant and Abandoned Properties Coordinator, who helps them find ways to rehabilitate or sell their property. The coordinator provides information about rehabilitation financing sources and a list of non-profit housing consultants who guide owners through the financing process. Because many vacant house owners inherited their property and do not understand the probate process or the market in which the property is located, the coordinator provides information and counseling. Since the program began, the city has found that 90% of the cases it opens against owners are closed by voluntary compliance. More information can be found here.

Harrisburg initiated a Citizen Inspection Program, through which neighborhood residents are trained to inspect the exterior of properties and send notices to the owners of properties that violate the city's Property Maintenance Code. If the owner does not rectify the situation, the Bureau of Codes official inspects the property and initiates enforcement actions.

San Jose has adopted a punitive approach for building code violations. They have a neglected vacant house registration fee of $291 per quarter.

In Macon, Georgia building code violations are treated as criminal offenses and violations have, on occasion, resulted in jail time for offenders.

Pittsburgh initiated a public shaming program in 1997, whereby building inspectors post signs identifying the owners on the most dilapidated properties in the city. To merit such a sign, the owner must have ignored city Housing Court fines and orders to clean up the building.