How code enforcement works in Richmond

By Chris Magnus

There has been a lot of interest recently in how code enforcement works in Richmond. Code enforcement as a function of city government covers a lot of responsibilities and is handled by more than one city department. The police department has a code enforcement unit, but the jurisdiction and role of RPD’s personnel is largely limited to exterior property conditions, such as how a structure or lot looks from the outside.
   Building inspectors assigned to the city’s planning department have responsibility for the interior condition of properties, including how homes and business are built and remodeled. The public services department works with both the police and planning departments depending on the status of a particular property and the type of cleanup that might be needed.
    RPD’s code enforcement unit is comprised of a civilian manager and six civilian personnel. One attorney is assigned part-time to the unit. Some residents think we have a much larger staff, especially given the monumental amount of work that needs to be done in our community. Since January of this year, RPD code enforcement officers have each taken on an average of 20 new cases a month, in addition to last year’s open cases. During 2007, the code enforcement unit handled 1,820 problem property complaints. They successfully resolved (and closed) 1,453 of these cases and are still working on 367 others from last year. During the first 15 weeks of 2008, the unit took on 448 new cases and has closed 197 of them.
    Here are just a few of the things code enforcement personnel deal with on a day to day basis: vacant structures (350-400 in Richmond); abandoned, inoperable or illegally parked/stored vehicles; illegal dumping and accumulated debris in yards and lots; dilapidated or illegal fencing; yard maintenance; and graffiti on private property.
    In order to deal with this vast array of problems, code enforcement personnel utilize several tools, including administrative citations, abatement warrants, criminal and civil complaints and, in many instances, mediation and warnings. Code enforcement personnel must deal with private property rights, due process and other requirements set forth by state law, which can make for a lengthy process.
    If you would like to report a code enforcement violation, go through COR-Connect on the city’s website at www.ci.richmond. ca.us under “Public Safety.” The code enforcement manager can be reached at (510) 620- 6508. Illegal dumping can be reported to the public works department at (510) 231-3011. Report graffiti by calling (510) 231- 3010.

Chris Magnus is the chief of the Richmond Police Department.