Guide to Residential Ordinances
There are numerous ordinances (or laws) in Concord that pertain to residential property. Most of these have been enacted to protect and preserve the basic character and quality of life in residential neighborhoods. They are typically designed to control accumulations of junk, trash, refuse, and vehicles, which are abandoned, unregistered or in disrepair.
The City also has an interest in ensuring that businesses do not operate where they are obviously inconsistent with the residential character of a neighborhood, just as it wishes to ensure that sidewalks and walkways are safely maintained, and are not obstructed by trees and shrubs. These ordinances are sometimes enforced by more than one department or division of the City, as well as State or County agencies, where applicable. Copies of individual ordinances and sections of the Concord Municipal Code can be found on the City’s web site at www. cityofconcord.org. Ordinances are updated to reflect the changing needs of the City and its citizens.
The City of Concord Neighborhood Services staff has a new weapon in the war against public nuisances. In April, 2000, the City Council adopted a Public Nuisance Ordinance which has become a part of the municipal code. A public nuisance can be a junked car, a building in disrepair, a dead or diseased tree, a stagnant swimming pool or any of a number of other conditions. One important feature of this ordinance is an Administrative Citation, and is similar to a parking ticket. Citations will be issued in cases where a property owner has failed to voluntarily take care of or abate a public nuisance. Because the citations do not involve the judicial system, they are more efficient and effective than bringing the matter to court. The fine for first time offenders is $100, second offense is $200 and subsequent offenses are $500. Fines are governed by State law and subject to increases.
