Code Enforcement
The City of Springtown’s Code Enforcement Program helps protect public health, safety, and welfare by promoting compliance with local ordinances and property maintenance standards. Code Enforcement works with residents, businesses, property owners, and tenants to address conditions that may negatively impact neighborhoods, create safety hazards, reduce property values, or diminish the overall quality of life within the community.
The goal of Code Enforcement is not simply to issue citations, but to educate property owners, encourage voluntary compliance, and help maintain safe, attractive, and well-maintained neighborhoods throughout Springtown.
Common Code Enforcement Concerns
For a complete listing of regulations, refer to the City of Springtown Code of Ordinances
High Grass, Weeds, and Overgrown Vegetation
Property owners are responsible for maintaining lawns, lots, and landscaping in a manner that does not create a nuisance or safety hazard. Excessive vegetation can:
- Harbor rodents, snakes, and other pests
- Obstruct visibility at intersections and driveways
- Create fire hazards during dry conditions
- Negatively impact surrounding properties
Residents are encouraged to regularly mow and maintain their properties to help keep neighborhoods clean and safe.
Junk, Debris, and Accumulated Refuse
The accumulation of trash, discarded household items, construction debris, scrap materials, and other refuse can create unsanitary conditions and attract pests.
Examples may include:
- Household garbage stored improperly
- Construction or demolition debris
- Scrap lumber, metal, or building materials
- Discarded furniture and appliances
- Excessive outdoor storage of miscellaneous items
Property owners should ensure that waste is properly stored and disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
Junk Vehicles and Vehicle Parts
Vehicles that are wrecked, dismantled, inoperable, abandoned, or stored in a manner inconsistent with City ordinances may constitute a code violation.
Examples include:
- Vehicles missing major components
- Vehicles incapable of lawful operation
- Abandoned vehicles on private property
- Excessive storage of vehicle parts, tires, engines, or mechanical components
The City works with property owners to address these situations while recognizing the needs of lawful restoration, repair, and maintenance activities where permitted.
Stagnant Water
Standing or stagnant water can create health concerns by providing breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests.
Common sources include:
- Unmaintained swimming pools
- Water-filled containers
- Drainage problems
- Artificial ponds or depressions holding water
- Construction sites with standing water
Property owners should take reasonable measures to eliminate conditions that contribute to stagnant water accumulation.
Substandard Structures
The City has adopted standards intended to ensure that buildings remain safe for occupants and the public. Structures that are unsafe, unsanitary, deteriorated, abandoned, or otherwise hazardous may be classified as substandard and subject to corrective action.
Substandard conditions may include:
Structural Deficiencies
- Failing or deteriorated foundations
- Collapsing walls or roofs
- Significant structural damage
- Unsafe porches, decks, stairs, or balconies
- Fire, storm, or impact damage that has not been repaired
Unsafe Building Systems
- Hazardous electrical wiring
- Defective plumbing systems
- Unsafe mechanical or HVAC equipment
- Utilities installed without proper permits
- Systems that present a danger to occupants
Unsanitary Conditions
- Lack of running water
- Improper sewage disposal
- Severe insect or rodent infestations
- Excessive accumulation of waste
- Conditions that pose health risks to occupants
Weather and Exterior Deterioration
- Broken or boarded windows
- Damaged or missing roofing materials
- Deteriorated exterior walls or siding
- Significant water intrusion
- Open or unsecured structures
Fire and Life Safety Hazards
- Inadequate exits
- Missing fire protection systems
- Dangerous accumulations of combustible materials
- Conditions likely to contribute to the spread of fire
Vacant and Neglected Buildings
Long-term vacant structures that are unsecured, deteriorated, vandalized, or otherwise pose risks to the community may be subject to investigation and enforcement action.
Compliance Process
The City strives to work cooperatively with property owners whenever possible. When a potential violation is identified, Code Enforcement may:
- Investigate the reported condition.
- Notify the property owner of the violation.
- Provide a reasonable opportunity to correct the issue.
- Conduct follow-up inspections.
- Pursue additional enforcement measures when necessary to protect public health and safety.
The specific process may vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
Reporting a Concern
Residents who observe potential code violations are encouraged to contact Code Enforcement. Helpful information may include:
- Property address
- Description of the concern
- Photographs, if available
- Contact information for follow-up questions
All reports are reviewed and investigated as resources and priorities allow.
Working Together for a Better Springtown
Maintaining clean, safe, and attractive neighborhoods is a shared responsibility. Through cooperation between residents, businesses, property owners, and City staff, Springtown can continue to preserve property values, protect public health and safety, and maintain the high quality of life that makes our community a great place to live, work, and visit.
To report a code violation, click here
Hours of Operation:
7:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday
Phone: (817) 220-4834
Address:
220 Hilltop Drive
Springtown, Texas 76082
