I received a tag on my door: “Notice of Violation.” What does that mean?

If you received a "Notice of Violation" as a homeowner in Los Angeles, the city has identified one or more violations of the municipal code on your property that need to be addressed.

A Notice of Violation typically indicates issues with your property that do not comply with the city's building, zoning, or safety codes.

Some common violations include:

• Unpermitted construction or renovations

• Illegal additions or conversions

• Zoning violations (e.g., operating a business in a residential area)

• Substandard housing conditions

• Accumulation of debris or hazardous materials

• Illegal signage or billboards

The Notice of Violation will specify the exact nature of the violations found on your property and provide instructions on correcting them.

It is crucial to read the notice carefully, understand the violations cited, and any deadlines or timelines for compliance.

Failure to address the violations within the specified timeframe can result in further enforcement actions, such as fines, legal proceedings, or even criminal charges in severe cases.

It is advisable to contact the inspector listed on the notice immediately to discuss the violations, request clarification if needed, and understand the steps required for compliance.

What are the consequences of not addressing a notice of violation?

1. Additional Fines and Penalties: The city can impose escalating fines and penalties for each day the violation remains uncorrected after the deadline specified in the notice. These fines can quickly accumulate and become substantial.

2. Legal Action: The city can initiate legal proceedings against you, such as filing a criminal complaint or seeking a court order to force compliance. This can result in additional legal fees and potential criminal charges.

3. Liens on Property: If fines and penalties remain unpaid, the city can place a lien on your property, which will impact your ability to sell or refinance until the lien is satisfied.

4. Revocation of Permits: For violations related to unpermitted construction or renovations, the city can revoke any previously issued permits and potentially require the removal or demolition of the unpermitted work at your expense.

5. Utility Shutoff: In severe cases, the city may shut off the property's utilities, such as water or electricity, until the violations are corrected.

6. Forced Compliance: If you ignore the violation, the city can obtain a court order to forcibly enter your property, correct the violation themselves, and then bill you for the cost of the work, plus additional fines and fees.

It's crucial to take a Notice of Violation seriously and address the cited issues promptly. Ignoring the notice can lead to escalating penalties, legal troubles, and potentially costly remediation efforts imposed by the city.

What do I do to resolve this?

1. Contact the Inspector - Immediately contact the inspector listed on the notice. Their contact information should be provided. Understanding the violations cited and the required corrective actions is crucial.

2. Understand the Violations - Read the notice carefully to identify the code violations on your property that must be addressed. Common violations include unpermitted construction work, zoning issues, or safety hazards.

3. Request an Extension if Needed - If you need more time to correct the violations, you can submit a written request for a time extension to the inspector, explaining your need for more time. Extensions are typically granted in 30-day increments if you demonstrate progress.

4. Obtain Necessary Permits - Determine if permits are required to correct the violations. Contact your local Building and Safety District Office to understand your specific situation's permit requirements and process.

5. Take Corrective Action - Take the necessary steps to correct the violations within the timeframe provided in the notice. This may involve obtaining permits, making repairs, or removing unpermitted work.

6. Pay Fees if Applicable - If fees or penalties are assessed due to the violations, pay them by the deadline specified in the notice to avoid further enforcement actions.

Failure to address the violations can lead to additional fines, legal action, or criminal prosecution.