Page 4 - July - September, 2019 CityLine

What is Code Enforcement?

by Stacey Frederico, Code Enforcement
All you have to do is say “code enforcement” and people start grumbling
about their past experiences! Code enforcement occurs when cities and
towns enforce their local laws. Property maintenance and zoning codes
deal with the exterior maintenance of structures, overgrown or dead
vegetation, outdoor storage, and fencing, to name just a few. Aggressive,
but sensible, approaches to bringing property owners into compliance
with the law can be an important part of maintaining the appearance,
functionality and property values of Litchfield Park.

There are laws in place that protect the property owners. In Arizona,
a code enforcement officer cannot examine private property unless Plogging to Make A Difference
invited. With that being said, the City cannot become involved in by Laila Amerman, Recycling Education & Communications Specialist
issues or disputes between neighbors. Violations must be visible from
the street or public property. Exceptions to that rule include green “I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can
pools and open/vacant/dangerous yards and structures. do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do
something that I can do.” - Edward Everett Hale
The most common complaints received by Code include:
• ‘My neighbors’ tree hangs over my yard and makes a mess.’ What is plogging? A mashup of the Swedish word plocka upp, for
You have the right to trim the tree branches that hang over your cleaning up, and jogging. Plogging is becoming a new exercise trend
property. Nothing can be done about wind-blown leaves and around the world. Whether you are a leisurely walker or an avid jogger,
debris. you can make a difference every time you step outside.
• ‘There are dogs running loose or barking.’ Code officers can only
cite when the offense is happening. After hours, don’t wait! Call Plogging is simple and fun. At the bare minimum, you need
the Sheriff’s office at 602-876-1011 or Animal Control at 602- comfortable shoes to go outside and jog/walk in and a bag for trash.
506-7387. To reach expert level, get some reusable gloves, cloth shopping bags
• ‘My neighbors’ trash cans are left out or stored in view.’ The City (something that can be washed easily), and a litter grabbing tool. Bonus
has an ordinance specifically about trash cans. Containers must be points if you take a second bag for recyclables. Remember, no plastic
stored so they are not readily visible from the street. bags in the recycling bin. Find a retailer who accepts bags instead.
• ‘There are too many cars parked on our street and in my
neighbor’s driveway.’ If vehicles are blocking the street, sidewalk While plogging won’t stop people from littering, there are positive
or driveways, contact us! However, the City does not have any benefits. You’re getting outside and active to improve your own health,
restrictions about the number of vehicles parked at an address. But cleaning up your local community, and you’re taking plastic and other
all vehicles must be parked on a hard surface. pollutants out of the environment that could be mistaken for food by
the wildlife in your community or otherwise harm the environment.

Research and read ordinances online at https://www.code When you see litter, remember that small choices make a big difference.
publishing.com/AZ/LitchfieldPark/. Contact Code Enforcement at To create less waste, think about the waste that will be created before
623-935-1066, codeenforcement@litchfield-park.org or fill out you purchase something. If you can find a more sustainable option, like
an online complaint form on the City’s website, http://www.litchfield- a reusable water bottle or shopping bag, get that instead. Finally, share
park.org/forms.aspx?fid=41. Code Enforcement plays a large role in with your neighbors so they can help too.
keeping Litchfield Park looking great but, most of all, your help is
appreciated!! Look for inspiration on social media by searching #plogging and
#trashtag. People all over the world are helping remove litter
from our home. Every one of us makes a difference. Learn about
what can be recycled and what cannot while you plog by visiting
RecycleOftenRecycleRight.com.

4 | Jul-Sep 2019 litchfield-park.org