• Zoning laws that regulate the use and development of land; and
• Laws that regulate nuisances within the Township, such as unsafe buildings, junk and abandoned vehicles, accumulations of objectionable material, and yards that are not maintained.

Having those regulations, however, is not enough unless they are effectively enforced. By enforcing those regulations, the Code Enforcement Department promotes and protects the public health, safety and welfare. In Emmett Charter Township, Code Enforcement is based on six distinct and important items:

1. Whenever possible work to achieve compliance without the need for formal enforcement proceedings
2. Prioritize needs and focus on improving quality
3. Work to inform all involved parties rather than process a large number of complaints quickly, with little or no personal contact
4. Ensure open and effective communication with the public and other departments
5. Work to educate the general public about the role of code enforcement and ordinance requirements
6. Take the time necessary to conduct general surveillance of the Township, as well as review ordinance and develop project and initiatives, that will address areas of concern

Remember, the Code Enforcement team is here to help. Working together will prevent blight in our neighborhoods and throughout the Township, and further influence and enhance the quality of life in our Township. You can reach the Code Enforcement Division at 269-441-2759, during normal business hours (Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

• Vehicles of any kind, whether they are Recreational Vehicles or your own personal vehicle that you are trying to sell, are not permitted to be parked on the lawn.
• Keep housing safe, sanitary, in good repair and maintain pest control holes
• Check to insure garbage is properly disposed of.
• Mow the lawn so that grass is (6) six inches or less in height.
• Inspect to insure that debris, such as plastic containers, used tires, building materials, non-operational vehicles and other materials that devalue the appearance of your yard, is not present.
• Repair rotted wood, broken or missing boards and siding.

How does Code Enforcement Work?

Our enforcement officer, who patrol the Township, initiate many of the code enforcement actions. A citizen can report a complaint by calling the Code Enforcement Division at 269-441-2759. A staff member will take information regarding the location and nature of the violation.

The code compliance officer will conduct an inspection of the property as soon as possible, typically within 2-3 working days. If it is determined that a violation exists, the officer may issue a notice of violation or depending on the nature of the violation work with the individuals responsible for the property for a brief period of time to achieve compliance.

Are there things that Code Enforcement can’t control?

Yes. Code Enforcement cannot resolve matters such as, property line disputes, tree branches or limbs hanging onto your property, subdivision covenants and deed restrictions. These issues are best handled by an attorney, as they tend to be civil matters.

Other items, such as mailboxes, street signs, and roadway clear vision areas that are obscured by brush or other such items, are handled through the Calhoun County Road Commission at 269-781-9841 or download the Calhoun County Road Department App (MiCCRD).

Complaints or concerns regarding parking in the street, noise, including dogs, should be referred to the Police Department at 269-968-9303. (Non-Emergency)

What to do if you receive a notice of Violation

• Call the Code Enforcement Officer who sent you the letter. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE.
• Find out how to correct the problem and do so promptly.
• You can ask for additional time provided you are making progress on the violations. Some problems are serious and correction must not be delayed. Remember to get proper permits that may be required for some repairs.
• If you are unwilling to take prompt action to correct the problems, there are several possible consequences you may face fines and penalties.

If you believe that there is a violation in your neighborhood or near your business, that you have not been able to resolve by discussing it with the responsible person, call (269) 441-2759. When you phone in your complaint, we will ask if you have contacted the responsible party. Most people want to be good neighbors and are cooperative once the issue is brought to their attention.

What is the International Property Maintenance Code?

The International Property Maintenance Code is an internationally recognized and used document, designed to provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating and controlling the use and occupancy, location and maintenance of all residential buildings and structures within the jurisdiction of the city.

How to File a Complaint

A citizen can report a complaint by calling the Code Enforcement Division at 269-441-2759. A staff member will take information regarding the location and nature of the violation.

The officer will conduct an inspection of the property, as soon as possible, typically within 2-3 business days of your complaint. If it is determined that a violation exists, the inspector may issue a notice of violation or depending on the nature of the violation work with the individuals responsible for the property for a brief period of time to achieve compliance.

Trees, Tree Branches and Tree Limbs

Typically, trees, tree branches and tree limbs really are more of a neighbor issue than a code enforcement issue. The best advice we can give is to speak with your neighbor about the issue. Otherwise, you should consult an attorney, as this is a private matter.

If there is a tree or other such vegetation that is blocking clear vision at a corner or intersection, you should contact the Calhoun County Road Commission at 269-781-9841.

Report a Concern

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As a community, we are working hard to ensure safe and clean neighborhoods. While we are only open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., we know that you are in your neighborhood 24/7. There may be issues that you notice in the evenings or on the weekends, and we want to make sure that you have an easy way to share your concerns with us. Use the following form to share your concerns with one of our code enforcement officers or with a district resource officer in our Police Department. When your request is received it will be forwarded to the appropriate department. You can also call Code Enforcement at (269) 441-2759. Depending on the specific request for enforcement, your call may be transferred to the Police Department. For emergencies or reports of criminal activity, please contact the Police Department immediately. This form is for non-emergency matters only. Please provide five to seven days for requests to be processed, especially on the weekends.

Select the type of problem that you want to report:(Required)

GraffitiCommercial Vehicle in a Residential AreaRecreational Vehicle Parked improperlyWeeds/GrassJunk VehicleLitter/GarbageCommercial Use in residential areaSwimming PoolsFencesSignsRats/Other InfestationsDangerous BuildingsSpeedingHome in DespairLoud PartiesToo many people living in a Single Family HomeSnow RemovalStreet LightsOther

*Note: Streetlight problems should be reported to Consumers Energy. https://www.consumersenergy.com/outages-and-safety/outage-center/streetlight

Descrption of the Problem: If you have additional information to provide, please include below. If the problem you are reporting typically occurs at specific times, days, etc.(Required)

Enter the Address/Location of the problem that you are reporting. Please be specific.(Required)

Can the Township Staff access your property to view the violation? {Staff must be able to view the violation without crossing onto the property where the violation is taking place}(Required)

Yes

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