City Of Katy, TX

 Notice of Violation

When property is suspected of being in violation of city code, an inspection of the property is made to confirm a violation exists. Finding the property in violation, a “Notice of Violation” is sent to the property owner. The notice states the nature of the violation and the time allowed by ordinance to achieve abatement.

If a Notice of Violation is received, citizens are encouraged to speak with their code inspector in order to work out a solution to the problem. In most cases, the inspector can work with citizens to gain compliance. The inspector’s objective is to ensure that you and your neighbors have a livable neighborhood in which to work and live.

Citizens may not be aware that their actions are in violation of city ordinances.  Some situations may require immediate injunctive relief (citation) in order to achieve the ultimate goal of compliance.  This is a judgment call on the Code Enforcement Officer’s part. The Code Enforcement Officer may extend the time allowed to achieve abatement. This extension is not automatic upon request. The Code Enforcement Officer may take into consideration factors related to the property, such as past violation/abatement history.

Code Enforcement seeks voluntary compliance with city ordinances pertaining to maintenance, sanitation, rehabilitation, conservation and safety of existing residential and commercial properties, such as: graffiti, high weeds and grass, junked vehicles, visual blight, etc…

A Notice of Violation related to stagnant water, filth, weeds, rubbish and other unsightly or unsanitary matter is good for one (1) year from the date it is sent. No other notice will be sent to the property owner within that period. Action can be taken by the city without further notice should code violations occur within the twelve (12) month period.

Code violations are Class C Misdemeanors that can result in fines ranging from $1 to $2,000. If a citation is issued, the individual may plead no contest or guilty and pay a preset fine, or he or she may plead not guilty and request a court date. Defendants are not jailed for code violations. However, failing to make an appearance in court as instructed in the citation can result in a failure to appear charge and a warrant for the defendant’s arrest. An individual can be found guilty of failing to appear even if found innocent of the initial violation.

The City of Katy codes are intended to benefit everyone while making our neighborhoods a better place to live, work, and play. Compliance with these standards can reduce vandalism, eliminate blight, deter crime, maintain property values, and prevent deterioration of the neighborhood.