Violations can be broadly classified by their Violation Type and can then be further classified by a Violation Use Code.

This article discusses managing the list of Violation Use Codes. If you want more information about Violation Types, they are discussed in Violation Types.

The Violation Use Code is a reference to the specific code or ordinance section that has been violated. This important piece of information is required to show the specific violation that has occurred and create a legally defensible violation notice.

If not well managed, the list of Violation Use Codes can get lengthy and difficult to navigate. Follow the advice in the sections below to keep the list at a manageable length.

Don't Add the Entire Code of Ordinances to the Violation Use Codes

Within the list of Violation Use Codes, only include the code sections that will be used for violations. Don't add the full Code of Ordinances. One option is to begin with an empty list of Violation Use Codes and only add them on an as-needed basis, when issuing violations. Proposed Use and Use Codes describes how to add Use Codes, when additional ones are needed

Prepend the Code Section Onto the Use Codes

If your Violation Type list is structured to mimic the municipal Code of Ordinances (Option 1 as described in Violation Types), then the Violation Use Codes should include the Section number of the code.

Prepend an Acronym or ID onto the Use Codes

If your Violation Type list is structured to use only general violation types (Option 2 as described in Violation Types), then the violation use codes can use a code or acronym to help find the appropriate Use Code. In the example screenshot below, the Use Code is prepended with the acronym "JV" to signify that it's the code reference for junk vehicles.

Include the Full Section Header (and Perhaps More) in the Use Code Description

When creating Use Codes, always include the full text of the section header. This allows you to easily compare the Use Codes in Permit Manager with the actual text of the code or ordinance. Sometimes, however, the section header, when viewed by itself, can be difficult to determine what it's related to. In the screenshot example below, the section header is only "Unsafe Conditions." It's difficult to understand what types of unsafe conditions this section refers to. By adding the text of "Exterior Structure," it makes the Use Code more clear.

Create a Violation

Violation Types

Inspect a Violation

Send a Violation Letter

Proposed Use and Use Codes