Show All Answers

1. Can I file an anonymous complaint?

Yes, through the portal.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.