Code Enforcement
Contact the Code Enforcement Department
hours
M-Th: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
F: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
F: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
address
3701 SE 15th St. Del City, OK 73115
About the Code Enforcement Department
The Code Enforcement Department is responsible for investigating and resolving public nuisances and other conditions that hamper the positive growth and development of the City and its neighborhoods.
Code Enforcement takes and investigates complaints from residents and businesses, monitors properties to ensure quick and complete resolution of any problems and takes action to remediate any nuisances that are not solved voluntarily. Code Enforcement uses a variety of strategies and tools to achieve compliance, including informal conversation, formal notices of violation, administrative fees, abatement of nuisances by contractors or city crews, and/or criminal prosecution in the City’s Environmental Court.
Common Code Enforcement complaints include tall weeds and grass, miscellaneous junk and trash, derelict vehicles, parking on unapproved surfaces (in the grass), stormwater quality violations (including grass in the street), tampering with utility meters and occupying houses without utilities.
Report Code Violations
To report code violations, please use the form below or contact Code Enforcement on the Code Enforcement Hotline number listed above.
All complaints are investigated by Code Enforcement Officers. Whenever possible, complaints are considered to be anonymous and identifying information is not disclosed unless required by legal process. Due to privacy and legal concerns, updates on active cases cannot be provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to address a public nuisance?
To comply with state law, the city follows a specific process to address public nuisances. This process includes giving the property owner a set amount of time to rectify the issue or appeal the nuisance complaint. Typically, this process takes around three weeks from the reporting of a nuisance to its resolution. However, the abatement and demolition of dilapidated buildings follow a different procedure under state law, which can take several months.
How are public nuisance codes enforced?
Violators are informed about the existence of a public nuisance on their property and are given a timeframe to address the issue. If the issue remains unresolved, the city may step in to rectify it and assess the costs as a tax lien on the property. In some cases, Municipal Court citations may be issued, with fines up to $750 for each day the violation persists.
How tall can the grass grow before it’s considered a public nuisance?
Grass is considered a public nuisance when it reaches a height of 12 inches or more.
Am I responsible for mowing and maintaining trees and shrubs next to the street?
Yes, city ordinance requires property owners to maintain all vegetation from the street curb or pavement edge, even though this area is part of the public right-of-way. This right-of-way between the street and the property line is considered an extension of the property for public use. Trees and shrubs must be pruned to avoid obstructing traffic or damaging vehicles.
What is considered a trash public nuisance?
Items that are dumped, improperly disposed of, or left unattended can be deemed a trash public nuisance according to state law and city ordinance. Common examples include piles of discarded items, tree limbs, brush, old furniture, lumber, and non-functional appliances.
What should I do if my landlord won't repair something in my home?
The responsibilities of landlords and tenants are outlined in the Oklahoma Residential Landlord Tenant Act and in lease agreements. These responsibilities are considered civil matters and do not fall under public nuisance regulations. This includes issues like bug infestations, which need to be handled by the tenant or landlord. However, the city will investigate conditions posing immediate health and safety hazards, such as unsafe electrical connections, lack of smoke detectors, or insufficient heating and sanitary facilities.
Why is it prohibited to park my car in the front yard or on the sidewalk?
According to the city’s zoning code, vehicles must be parked on approved solid surfaces like asphalt or concrete, meaning parking in the front yard is not allowed. Additionally, parking on or across sidewalks obstructs pedestrian access, particularly for those with disabilities. Sidewalks must remain accessible for public use at all times.
What if my car is not operational?
Inoperable vehicles must be stored in an enclosed area such as a garage. Vehicles left in open view are subject to towing, and property owners or tenants may receive a citation from Municipal Court.
Why can't I keep indoor furniture like a sofa or recliner on my porch?
Furniture intended for indoor use should not be kept outside, even on a covered porch, as it can accumulate moisture and attract rodents, insects, and other pest.
How can I dispose of bulky trash items?
The City offers two (2) free bulk trash pickups per year. Extra pickups of bulky items are available for an additional fee. Please contact the Sanitation Department to schedule these pickups.