Each strives to achieve voluntary compliance with City Codes through a process of notification and education. The staff members enforce housing, zoning and vehicle abatement, the ultimate goal is to improve and maintain property values and the quality of life Richland Center residents, visitors and business owners expect and deserve. Where voluntary compliance cannot be achieved; however, the procedures to address public nuisances including, but not limited to, the boarding of structures, removal of junk and rubbish, abatement of junk vehicles, civil and criminal citations, and demolition of dangerous buildings occurs through a process identified in the City Ordinance.

The Code Enforcement members have the opportunity and the responsibility to enhance the quality of life for all those who live and work in the City of Richland Center. Our most significant role is to identify and meet the needs of the citizens and business owners and establish programs that will allow the division to offer the most valuable services.

A proactive approach is taken to inspect neighborhoods, and individual residential and commercial properties to bring them in compliance with the City Code requirements for property maintenance, zoning enforcement, and current licensing of rental facilities and oversize vehicles. Landlord Tenant Affairs service is available for unbiased advice and guidance to both parties.

Residential Property

Community Enhancement
Community enhancement inspections are conducted throughout the City of Richland Center to accomplish the following:

• Identify code violations
• Educate the community on property maintenance codes
• Improve overall quality of life in City of Richland Center neighborhoods
• Preserve property values

Commercial Property

Rental Inspections and Licensing
All rental properties must pass the required inspection for property maintenance, health and safety deficiencies every two years, prior to the issuance of a rental license. Single family dwellings include detached houses, townhouses and condominiums. Multi family dwellings (apartments) are inspected and licensed annually.

Types of Code Enforcement Violation

• Trash and waste accumulation
• Tall grass and weeds (in excess of 8 inches)
• Abandoned or junk vehicles
• Parking on the grass
• Defective sheds, garages, fences, etc.
• Missing address numbers
• Chipped and peeling paint
• General exterior maintenance
• Unsanitary conditions
• Missing or defective smoke detectors
• Overcrowding and prohibited habitation
• Infestation of pests/rodents