Make the cleanup count. Document it.

Take useful before photos

Photograph the property before work begins, including every condition described in the notice. Use a wide view that shows location and close views that show the problem. Capture the front, rear, sides, fence lines and any cited right-of-way or swale.

Keep the original image files and their dates. Use truthful, unaltered photos for evidence. Do not digitally remove debris, shorten grass or replace parts of the image. Label a copy if useful, while keeping the original.

Make sure the work scope includes each cited condition. A beautifully mowed frontage will not prove that a backyard debris accumulation was removed.

Build the completion record

• Take after photos from the same positions as the before photos.
• Show the entire area, with additional views for hidden corners.
• Document the completion date and what work was performed.
• Keep an invoice naming the property and describing mowing, brush work and removal.
• Keep disposal or hauling records when relevant to the cited item.

Our cleanup services include before/after photo documentation for the code officer. Confirm what the agency will accept; some cases still require an in-person reinspection.

Send a clear reinspection request

Use the official submission channel listed on the notice or department website. Keep a copy and a record of when you sent it.

Get the case status in writing

Ask the officer to distinguish “work appears complete,” “in compliance,” “case closed” and “lien released.” These descriptions are not interchangeable. Confirm whether a scheduled hearing is canceled or remains on the calendar.

Where a Part I compliance order was recorded and the order was met by its specified date, § 162.07(4) addresses a recorded order acknowledging compliance. If this applies to your case, ask about that record as well.

If daily fines were running, confirm the effective compliance date and updated balance. If a lien exists, follow the separate payoff or reduction and release process. Keep the written determination with your property records.

Keep it compliant through reinspection and beyond

Grass can regrow while you wait for a reinspection. Maintain the property and keep a local contact available if you live elsewhere. If debris has been removed, prevent new dumping where practical and inspect after storms or tenant turnover.

A recurring mowing schedule can reduce the chance of another violation. Set the interval based on growth and property conditions rather than waiting for a new warning letter.