Building and zoning codes help make our communities safe places to live and work. Consistent code enforcement helps maintain quality of life, and can save lives.
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What is Code Enforcement?
Code enforcement is a process that works to ensure that property owners bring substandard structures and conditions up to Building and Zoning Code standards.

Who is Responsible for Code Enforcement in my Community?
The County of Orange Planning and Development Services Department Code Enforcement Unit is a group of professionals committed to providing code enforcement services to all unincorporated areas of the County. When necessary, the Unit works cooperatively with the following agencies to help owners bring their property up to code: Housing and Community Development, Social Services Agency, Health Care Agency, County Executive Office, District Attorney, Sheriff, the Orange Fire Authority and other agencies.

Code enforcement personnel are always available to attend community meetings to explain the program and assist citizens with improving their neighborhoods. 

The success of the Code Enforcement Program depends in large part upon each of us acting as good neighbors. No property within the unincorporated County may be used or maintained in a manner which downgrades the value, use, enjoyment, or safety of ones own or surrounding property.

How do I file a Complaint?
Nothing can take the place of friendly dialogue with your neighbor. However, if the dialogue does not resolve your concerns or you fear a confrontation, feel free to file an anonymous complaint with the County Code Enforcement Unit by phone, fax or in writing.
If you have a question or wish to file a complaint, contact:
PDSD/Code Enforcement Unit
P.O. Box 4048
Santa Ana, CA 92702-4048
(949) 587-5867 Phone
(949) 587-5870 Fax

What are Some Examples of Code Violation?
• Fire Hazards: Dead shrubs, trees, combustible refuse or waste
• Storage of trailers, campers, boats or motor vehicles on vacant property or front yards
• Broken or discarded furniture stored on vacant property or in front or side yards visible from the street
• Unsafe buildings and other structures
• Unlawful grading or earth movement
• After hours construction noise
• Building, repairing or adding to structures without plans or permits

For the Top 10 Code Enforcement Offences CLICK HERE.

Are there Programs that can Help Property Owners Comply?
For some code violations, such as substandard housing (e.g. leaking roofs, or lack of up-to-code plumbing or electrical wiring), homeowners may qualify for programs administered by Housing and Community Development. Other services are also available. Contact the Code Enforcement Unit for more information.

The Planning Department's Code Enforcement Unit is ready to help you.

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