Common Code Violations
While Code Enforcement inspects for and enforces many codes and ordinances, the following are the most common violations reported. Help keep Tallahassee beautiful and safe by avoiding these common violations. The applicable regulations for all violations may be found in the City Ordinances links below.
Fences
Fences must be constructed of approved materials and must be kept in good repair. Use of materials such as barbed wire, razor wire and electrified fencing are prohibited within residentially zoned areas. [Chapter 3. Article VII. Section 3-401]
Derelict/Inoperable Vehicles
A Derelict/Inoperable Vehicle is one that does not display a current license tag and/or is not equipped with all parts required to legally and safely operate on public streets and/or cannot be driven under its own power. [Chapter 20, Article IV. Section 20.131]
Home Maintenance
All wood, siding, shingles, roof covering, railings, walls, ceilings, porches, doors, windows, screens and any other exterior parts of residential structures must be maintained in weather-tight, rodent proof, sound condition and in good repair. Interior walls, ceilings, floors, doors and hardware must be in sound condition and in good repair. Electrical, heating and plumbing fixtures shall be installed in accordance with local codes and maintained in good and safe repair. [Chapter 3. Article IX. Division 2. Section 3-488]
Swimming Pools
All swimming pools shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Residential pools must be enclosed by a fence at least 4 feet high with self-closing or self-latching devices on gates or doors. [Chapter 3. Article VIII. Section 3-434]
Junk, Trash & Debris
Junk, trash and debris are prohibited from being left in the yard and must be disposed of properly. This includes, but is not limited to, junk, auto parts, appliances, furniture, building materials, tires, trash such as discarded paper, cardboard, plastics, etc., and debris such as tree trimmings and fallen limbs. [Chapter 9. Article III. Section 9-64]
Building address numbers
Building address numbers must be placed in a position so as to be plainly visible from the street or road fronting the property. This requirement is primarily made for your safety; if an emergency vehicle cannot identify the correct property it could delay their response. [Chapter 3. Article 1. Section 3.2]
Signs
Signs are not allowed in the right of way or medians within the City of Tallahassee, according to City Ordinance, LDC Chapter 7, Article III, Division 2, Section 7-81 (12). The right of way extends from the street to the sidewalk, utility pole or fire hydrant (whichever is further away from the street). [Chapter 7. Article IV. Section 7-81]
Did You Know?
- You can report a violation at 850-891-7007, or use the DigiTally app on your phone.
- In order to enforce the City’s numerous Codes and Ordinances, the Code Enforcement team works with other departments to inspect and address compliance issues. If our division is not able to address your issue directly, we will connect you with an appropriate City department or outside agency to assist you.
- Some common issues that are NOT handled through Code Enforcement are
- Tree removal services (contact a local certified arborist)
- Parking violations and broken meters (contact Customer Operations at 891.4YOU)
- Food safety concerns (contact County Dept. of Health at 895-8360)
- Fire safety and venue overcrowding (call Fire Department 891-6600)
- Emergency life safety issues (call 9-1-1)
- Some issues that are typically reported to Code Enforcement may actually be civil disputes between property owners (example tree trimming across property lines) or may be Landlord-Tenant issues that could be mediated. Please note, the City Attorney's Office does not represent or give legal advice to citizens of Tallahassee. For legal representation, you should contact either your own private attorney, the Florida Bar at 850-561-5600 or visit their website at FloridaBar.org for a referral, or North Florida Legal Services at 850-385-9007 or visit their website at www.lsnf.org. You can also find out more about the City’s Landlord-Tenant mediation program before you consider suing your landlord or tenant.
- The City has a noise ordinance that seeks to limit this public nuisance in certain areas [Article IV; Division 2; 12-92 through 12-97]. Complaints may be submitted directly to the Police Department for assistance. Visit this page for some helpful tips to avoid violating this code.
- Electronic items such as computers, cell phones, and televisions as well as hazardous materials, such as paint, oil and chemicals require special handling. These items should not be placed in the garbage or recycle receptacles, nor left by the curb. These items must be taken to the Leon County Landfill, located at 7550 Apalachee Parkway. You may contact Solid Waste Services at 850-891-4YOU (4968) or the Leon County Landfill at 487-2890 for more information.
- The Growth Management department supports building permitting and development approvals within appropriate zones. Check out this Citizen Tools Portal for resources to keep you informed.
- Code Enforcement Officers routinely attend neighborhood association meetings to review and explain code requirements. If you would like an officer to attend one of your meetings, please contact us at code.enforcement@talgov.com or call 850-891-7007.
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