- You Are Here:
- Home
- Departments
- Community Development
- Code Compliance Division
- What Codes Do We Enforce?
- Common Questions
Common Questions
- Can I file an anonymous complaint?
-
Yes, through the portal.
- Does the City regulate the height of grass and weeds on private property?
-
Yes, per AMC 8.08. 030 (E, F).
The existence of accumulations of materials, objects, or vegetation in a location or in a manner that constitutes a fire hazard.
The existence of grasses or weeds which exceed 18 inches in height in nonagricultural use.
- Can I have chickens inside city limits?
-
Yes, per code: 17.56.070 (3).
Gnawing mammals such as rabbits, chinchillas, and nutria; and fowl such as chickens, ducks, and geese provided that:
- The penned animals are kept in the rear yard at least ten feet from a residence.
- The pens are located no closer than 25 feet to any other residence.
- Roosters are not allowed within city limits.
- What if a property owner refuses to take care of a violation?
-
If a property owner fails to comply after two written notices, they may be fined Civilly. Civil fines are non-criminal and are appealable to the Municipal Court. If an owner refuses or is unable to comply, the City may seek a warrant to enter the property and abate the nuisance at the owner’s expense.
- How do I report garbage/debris/junk left in the street or the City right-of-way?
-
Leave a detailed message with code enforcement and it will be routed to the appropriate crew for cleanup as their schedule permits. Or report through the Citizens Action Request Portal.
- What if my building is deemed unfit?
-
You will need to work with the Code officer and Building inspector to identify the non-compliant issues and work towards a resolution. Many things could contribute to a property being deemed unfit such as a property that has been without utilities for over 30 days, or a property that was damaged by fire. Along with many building code violations.
View more information on conditions for declaring a building or premises unfit for human habitation or other use.
- Does the City condemn buildings?
-
No. After identifying an Unfit Structure we work with property owners on a plan for compliance to abate the Unfit status. See also Abatement.
- I would like to purchase a building that has been deemed unfit, what do I need to do?
-
You will need to work with the Code officer and Building inspector to identify the non-compliant issues and work towards a resolution. Many things could contribute to a property being deemed unfit such as a property that has been without utilities for over 30 days, or a property that was damaged by fire. Along with many other building code violations.
- How long does it take to abate an unfit structure?
-
Depending on the availability of the property owner, court schedule, potential hazard to the community as well as funding, an Unfit structure may take several years before it is abated.
- What is an emergency abatement?
-
A property may be abated rapidly to protect the surrounding properties and community.
In the case of a circumstance that causes serious structural damage i.e., serious fire damage or other circumstance involving structural damage.
- What do I do if my property has a lien or complaint recorded with the Grays Harbor County Assessor?
-
You will need to contact the Code Enforcement office to determine the steps to obtain a Certificate of Compliance to record with the Grays Harbor County Assessor.
Please call 360-537-3213, or email Lindy Dansare for more information.