The Code Compliance Division enforces City codes and regulations that result in the protection of the health, safety and welfare of all citizens. The Division is responsible for enforcing the following codes:

***Disclaimer***

• graffiti
• vacant dangerous premises and structures
• bandit signs
• curb stoning
• junked vehicles
• weeded vacant lots
• zoning (Unified Development Code)
• illegal dumping
• barbed wire and fences
• minimum housing including unsanitary premises
• front & side yard parking
• garage sales
• alley and right-of-way violations
• vendors, hawkers and peddlers

SUMMARY

GRAFFITI.

DANGEROUS PREMISES    

A vacant and dilapidated building may be considered a dangerous premise as defined in City code if the structure is seen as a threat to public health or safety. Depending on the condition of the property, City officials could order its demolition or cleaning and securing at the owner's expense. In addition the City may file a case in Municipal Court against the owner of the property.

Shown below is an example of what the Code Compliance Department is trying to achieve in neighborhoods all over San Antonio. This property had been in a state of disrepair for many years. A court case was filed against one of its' prior owners. It was eventually sold to someone who was willing to make the repairs.

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BANDIT SIGNS.

Signs illegally placed on city right of way or utility poles. Signs will be removed and disposed. Cases will be filed in Municipal Court against business sign owner.

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CURB STONING.

Will prohibit the sale of vehicles from unauthorized properties and public rights-of-way. A 4 hour notice to remove will be posted on the vehicle along with a parking citation. Failure to remove the vehicle will result in impounding of the vehicle.

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JUNKED VEHICLES.

The City prohibits the keeping of an inoperable motor vehicle where it can be seen from any public property or adjacent private property. Any motor vehicle that remains inoperable for ten days or more can be considered a junked motor vehicle under City code. A $200.00 per day fine can be imposed on owners of junked motor vehicles and/or the vehicle could be towed and destroyed if the vehicle owner is not able to show that the vehicle is fully operable.

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VACANT LOTS.

Allowing weeds, grass or brush to grow more than 12 inches high and/or allowing an accumulation of trash and debris is a violation of City code.  The City of San Antonio encourages all owners of vacant lots to keep them neatly mowed and cleared.

If your lot is overgrown in excess of 48 inches in height it may be cleaned without prior notice to the property owner regardless of its' location in the City! The City may clean the lot by private contractor at the property owner's expense! A lien can be placed on the property for the cleaning fees plus a $150.00 administrative fee.

In addition to the above remedies, the City may also file a case against the property owner in Municipal Court.  If convicted, property owners face a fine of up to $2,000.00 per violation.

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ZONING.

Zoning regulations have been made in accordance with a comprehensive plan to promote the health, safety and general welfare of the community. These regulations include provisions for the use of property and limitations upon the shape, bulk and location of buildings which occupy the land. It is a violation, for instance, to operate a commercial activity in a district designated for residential use. Violations carry a fine of up to $2,000 for failing to comply.