What Is Code Enforcement?

Code enforcement is the process of ensuring that properties, buildings, and certain activities comply with the
ordinances and regulations adopted by North Whitehall Township. These regulations establish standards
intended to protect public health, safety, and welfare while promoting the proper maintenance and responsible
use of properties throughout our community.

The primary goal of code enforcement is to achieve compliance, not simply to issue violations or penalties.
Through education, inspections, and enforcement when necessary, the Township works to address conditions
that may create safety concerns, negatively affect neighboring properties, or conflict with adopted regulations.

Why Is Code Enforcement Important?

North Whitehall Township is home to established neighborhoods, agricultural properties, businesses, and a
diverse mixture of developed and undeveloped land. Maintaining reasonable property standards helps
preserve the quality and character of our community while protecting the interests of property owners and
residents.
  • Protecting public health and safety by addressing unsafe structures and hazardous conditions.
  • Encouraging property maintenance and appropriate upkeep of buildings and grounds.
  • Preventing nuisances by addressing prohibited conditions and activities.
  • Promoting fairness and consistency in administering adopted regulations.
  • Protecting community character through responsible property use.

What Is the Role of the Code Enforcement Officer?

The Code Enforcement Officer administers and enforces applicable Township ordinances relating to property
maintenance, nuisance conditions, zoning violations, and other regulated activities.
  • Reviewing and investigating reported potential violations.
  • Conducting inspections in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
  • Documenting conditions and evaluating ordinance compliance.
  • Communicating with property owners and other responsible parties.
  • Issuing warnings and Notices of Violation when warranted.
  • Conducting follow-up reviews and coordinating further enforcement proceedings when necessary.
The Code Enforcement Officer does not independently create or amend Township ordinances. Township
regulations are adopted by the Board of Supervisors.

Understanding Property Owner and Occupant Responsibilities

Maintaining a property in compliance with Township ordinances is an important responsibility of property
ownership and occupancy. North Whitehall Township’s property maintenance and nuisance regulations
establish standards addressing building conditions, exterior maintenance, sanitation, and other regulated
property conditions.

Depending on the nature of the concern and the applicable ordinance provisions, responsibility for maintaining
compliance may rest with the property owner, occupant, or another legally responsible party.

Property owners remain responsible for applicable maintenance requirements even when a building or
property is vacant or unoccupied. The Township evaluates each situation based on the applicable regulations
and circumstances.

What Types of Conditions May Be Regulated?

  • Unsafe or deteriorating buildings and accessory structures.
  • Accumulations of rubbish, refuse, or junk materials.
  • Junked vehicles and certain outdoor storage conditions.
  • Overgrown vegetation or other prohibited nuisance conditions.
  • Unauthorized land uses, construction, or improvements.
  • Other activities or conditions prohibited by Township ordinances.
Not every undesirable condition, property disagreement, or neighborhood concern constitutes an ordinance
violation. The Township must determine whether an applicable regulation has been violated before pursuing
enforcement action.

Working Together Toward Compliance

The Township recognizes that property maintenance concerns can arise for many reasons, including
unexpected repairs and changing circumstances. Whenever appropriate, the Township encourages
communication and voluntary compliance. However, the responsibility to correct a violation remains with the
party legally responsible for the condition.

A well-maintained community is a shared responsibility, and informed property owners are an important part of
achieving that goal.