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1. What constitutes a zoning violation?

A zoning violation is any reported violation of the regulations of the City of Midlothian Zoning Ordinance. A few common violations may include:

• Illegal Communication Tower
• Illegal Home Business
• Illegal Signage – in conjunction with the Community Services Department
• Illegal Parking (large vehicles)
• Dead Landscaping
• Illegal Auto Sales
• Illegal Outdoor Storage
• Illegal/Non-Existent Fencing & Screening

The Community Services Department oversees general code enforcement violations such as:

• High Grass
• Inoperable Vehicles
• Illegal Signs
• Junk/Debris
• Illegal Parking

2. How do I file a zoning enforcement complaint?

STEP ONE:

Request the complaint in writing by filling out a Request for Investigation form or call (972) 775-7168.

STEP TWO:

After a complaint has been received, the case is logged and then assigned for investigation.

STEP THREE:

The assigned inspector conducts an inspection and researches the property. If a violation is confirmed, the property owner is advised in writing about the violation and the violation is posted on the City’s website. The violation letter states what action must be taken to correct the problem and a date is given by which compliance must be achieved. The inspector will work with property owners who request assistance in resolving a violation. An extension of time may be granted to property owners who promise to resolve the violation within an acceptable time frame.

STEP FOUR:

The inspector re-inspects the property after the compliance date. If a violation still exists, citations or legal action may be initiated. Fines may be issued in an amount of not less than five dollars, but not more than two-thousand dollars for each day that a property is in violation beyond the compliance date.

3. Why is it taking so long to address the zoning violation?

* Please be aware that the mitigation of a zoning violation may take some time.

• Inspectors must personally
visit each reported property
and conduct necessary
research.

• Property owners must be
located and legally notified.

• Adequate time to comply must
be given to property owners extensions of time may be
required.

• Administrative actions may be
pending a request for a variance hearing or a trial.

• A citation is issued to the
property owner and they have
asked to stand trial on the
citation. All zoning enforcement actions cease until the property owner goes to court and a judge issues a decision.

• A violation may not exist.