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Complaints

Code Enforcement Process

When you call the Code Enforcement office one or two things could happen. You may learn that your concerns are not a violation of a Clark County code, in which case, mediation services may be suggested to resolve an issue with your neighbor.

If you have a concern that may be a violation of a building code, zoning code, nuisance code or environmental regulation you will be asked for the following information:

  • location
  • description of the violation and where it can best be viewed
  • property owner, if known
  • and, if you wish to remain anonymous

A Code Enforcement Officer will conduct an investigation and the code coordinator will determine what enforcement action to take. A letter will be sent to the property owner that advises them of the violation and gives them a timeframe to correct it.

The officer will re-inspect the property at the end of the given timeframe. If a violation still exists, further enforcement will be taken. If voluntary compliance is not achieved, a Notice and Order will be issued that gives the property owner ten days to comply before fines begin. The property owner has an opportunity to appeal a Notice and Order to a hearings examiner.

If the hearings examiner affirms the notice and order, fines are imposed and will continue each day until the violation is corrected. If fines are unpaid they are recorded as a lien on the property.

When it is determined compliance cannot be reached, the case is forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney for legal action.

Register a complaint online.

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Clark County Community Development: Marty Snell, Director
Street address: 1300 Franklin Street, Vancouver, WA 98660
Mailing address: P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810
Main phone: (360) 397-2375 | Fax: (360) 397-2011
E-mail: commdev@clark.wa.gov

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