Sparks Code enforcement is a tool to help the city control
Code enforcement is a tool to help the city control blight, help maintain private property, and abate public nuisances and dangerous conditions. The recession and bursting of the region’s real estate bubble has resulted in an unprecedented number of homebuyer loan defaults and foreclosures and in a growing number of vacant, neglected properties that pose a nuisance or danger to the community.
Despite having only a single code enforcement officer, the city has continued to respond to complaints and achieved many successes in abating problems in our community. In addition, Planning staff led the City Manager’s new Vacant Building Task Force. This effort resulted in City Council adoption of an ordinance amending the “Nuisances” section of the municipal code to enhance the city’s ability to abate nuisances. The city’s Planning Division has since worked closely with staff in other city departments, including Fire and the City Attorney’s office, and with the Building Official, to develop policies and procedures to utilize these enhanced powers.
