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Guest author Pete Roque of 4 Leaf Inc explains how different communities structure their code enforcement team into different divisions. Code enforcement is a great way to ensure that your community is not overtaken (or ruined) by unsightly buildings, houses, activities, or businesses.

Every year, small and large changes are made to California’s legal codes. This includes laws that affect code enforcement officers, who play a vital role in keeping our communities safe.

Code enforcement officers face more and more difficult situations when it comes to carrying out their responsibilities. Unfortunately, the job of code enforcement comes with a lot of risks, which leaves officers feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

The National Vacant Properties Campaign held its annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio last week. There to explain the positive impact that receiverships can have on vacant/abandoned properties in cities across the nation was Mark Adams of the California Receivership Group. Mr. Adams is a friend and mentor of mine.

As foreclosures continue flowing and banks lose additional control of their REO portfolios, more and more vacant properties in substandard condition will turn up in neighborhoods within San Diego County and the nation at large. Cities within San Diego County have taken promising steps over the years to beef up code enforcement strategies and neighborhood improvement initiatives, particularly in the City of Chula Vista and the City of San Diego. Attempts to stave off vacant/substandard/nuisance properties, coupled with an aggressive penalties system, can solve half the problem. However, once the property has been identified as a "nuisance" and the fines/penalties/charges have been issued, what next? Who ensures the property will be cleaned up and brought within compliance with the applicable code? The answer: court-appointed receivership.