Code Violations

What is a code violation?

Our neighborhoods are the environment in which we live and raise our families. Understanding the importance of preserving and improving the quality of our homes and neighborhoods, the City has adopted codes that govern the use and maintenance of private property.  The City's codes deal with both private residential property and commercial property.

Examples of the types of problems that the Code Compliance Division can handle.

• Trash and debris - Any garbage, trash, appliances, old furniture, or scrap material must be removed from the property. 
• Inoperable vehicles on private property - Inoperable, wrecked, dismantled and abandoned vehicles (with or without current license plates) shall not be parked or stored other than in a completely enclosed garage.
• Parking on private property - All vehicles must be parked on paved (concrete or asphalt) surfaces.
• Recreational vehicle parking on private property - Non-registered boats, trailers, campers, RVs or other similar vehicles shall not be stored within view of the public right-of-way or adjoining property.  Currently registered boats, trailers, campers, RVs or other similar vehicles shall be operable, visibly maintained, and parked on paved (concrete or asphalt) surfaces.
• Dangerous or substandard buildings - Building and housing codes protect the safety of a property's residents or visitors. The City is very concerned with illegal or non-permitted room additions, garage conversions, or open and accessible abandoned buildings.
• Security bars on bedroom windows - The State of California requires that security bars on at least one window in each bedroom must have a quick release mechanism or be removed.
• Animals - In non-agricultural residential areas, no more than 3 domestic animals are allowed on a property and no fowl are permitted. Animal regulations vary from zone to zone, please contact the Planning Department at 951-922-3125 if you have specific questions related to animal keeping. 
• Fences - Most back and side yard fences may not be more than 6 feet tall. Front yard fences of open construction may be 4 feet tall, but solid fences in a front yard are limited to 3 feet. Salvage materials, such as garage doors, cannot be used as fencing material. Properties that have swimming pools must have self closing and self latching gates to prevent accidents.
• Grass and weeds - Tall dry grass or dead vegetation may pose a fire hazard and must be cleared.
• Garage sales - Two garage sales per year are allowed. A permit can be obtained from the city cashier. Signs advertising the sale may not be placed in the public right of way.  Posting signs on telephone poles or utility poles is a misdemeanor.
• Home operated businesses - Some home businesses that do not generate customer traffic, noise, or have visible storage of material may be allowed under a Home Occupations Permit. Other types of businesses that disrupt the neighborhood are not allowed.  For other requirements please contact the Planning Department at 951-922-3125.

What is not a code violation?

The City is trying to expend its resources - your tax dollars - in the most appropriate and efficient manner. Some neighborhood disputes that may be reported do not fall under our jurisdiction.  We can act on behalf of the public at large but not on behalf of one citizen against another. 

Examples:

• The leaves of a neighbor's tree that fall into your yard do not constitute a code violation.
• Ugly or old vehicles do not violate the municipal code unless they are inoperable.