Code Enforcement is a division of the Planning and Building Department and can be reached at (760) 633-2685.  Code Enforcement works closely with all City departments and the Sheriff’s Department to ensure that neighborhoods and businesses remain consistent with community standards established by the rules of the City’s Municipal Code. 

Code Enforcement investigates alleged violations of the City’s Municipal Code, and when necessary, initiates enforcement action to obtain compliance with City regulations.  Properties found in violation of the Municipal Code may be subject to administrative citations or other corrective actions.

To file a complaint with the Code Enforcement office, submit a complete, signed Citizen’s Complaint Form (pdf) or submit an online Request for City Assistance.  Please be sure to provide a complete form with all of your contact information should staff need to contact you.

For questions or to receive a complaint form by fax, mail or email, please contact the Code Enforcement office at 760-633-2685 or click here to view our FAQs page (pdf).

Code Enforcement Investigates:

• Illegal dwelling units
• Construction without permits
• Converted garages
• Unpermitted home occupations in residential zones
• Fence height regulations
• Junk, trash and debris in public view
• Trash and recycle bins in public view
• Signs and banners without permits
• Signs in the public right of way
• Inoperable vehicle abatement on private property (pdf)
• Noise violations
• Barking dogs
• Graffiti removal (pdf)
• Parking citation appeals (pdf)

Code Enforcement Does NOT Investigate:

• Civil complaints (neighbor-to-neighbor issues) such as property lines, tree trimming and blocked views
• Tenant/ landlord issues
  (contact: California Department of Consumer Affairs
  http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/index.shtml)

• Pests- rats/ mice/ bees
  (contact: San Diego County Vector Control
  http://sdpublic.sdcounty.ca.gov/portal/page?_pageid=93,1&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL)
  
  
• Substandard housing/ mold issues
  (contact: San Diego County Environmental Health http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/deh/

• Dogs off leash
  (contact: San Diego Department of Animal Services http://www.sddac.com/

• Air pollution
  (contact: San Diego County Air Pollution Control District http://www.sdapcd.org/index.html

• Mobile Home Park Issues
  (contact: California Department of Housing and Community Development
  http://www.hcd.ca.gov/codes/ol/ombpg-menu.html

The Code Enforcement staff specializes in educating the public about Code Enforcement issues which affect the quality of life within the City.  Community members share a part in keeping Encinitas a clean, safe and beautiful place to live, work and play.  Things you can do to help:

• Maintain your property
• Check with City staff regarding Municipal Codes and necessary permits prior to performing and construction or remodel work
• Establish a good relationship with your neighbors and work together to solve problems before conflicts arise

SHERIFF RESPONSE

For emergency situations, call 911.

For non- emergency issues, please contact the Sheriff’s dispatch line at 858.565.5200.