Who is DCC?

The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) was formed in 2010, but not everyone in the county knows about our agency. Here is some information that may be helpful:

• The DCC website includes information about our enforcement activities, how to contact us, as well as links to previous editions of Code Compliance Corner.
• DCC enforces various rules related to land use and the maintenance of structures and properties. With the exception of the Illegal Sign Removal Program, DCC operates on a complaint-only basis.
• DCC strives to inform the public about regulations we enforce and seek voluntary compliance when there is a violation. DCC may pursue legal actions, including fines, if violations aren’t corrected voluntarily.
• Over the last year, the most common violations found by DCC have been construction without required permits or inspections, outdoor storage, and grass height. Links to information about each of these topics and how to be in compliance can be found on the DCC website.
• DCC has a new flyer with more information about our department, including how we investigate and address violations.

What happens during an investigation?

• Reports come from the community or are referred to us from other agencies. Complaints can be anonymous, but we encourage people to leave contact information.
• Investigators visit the property, take pictures, and try to contact the owner or tenants to explain why we are there.
• If problems need to be fixed, we issue a “Notice of Violation,” or NOV, which says what needs to be done to correct issues. The NOV also gives a deadline for bringing the property into compliance.
• Investigators communicate with the owner or whoever is responsible, so everyone understands what is expected. More time may be given as long as there is active work being done toward compliance.
• After deadlines have passed, a reinspection is done to make sure issues have been resolved.
• If the person(s) found responsible refuses to comply with the NOV, and our efforts to motivate and assist them aren’t successful, then we may take legal action, including fines and penalties.

We are here to help!

If you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us, you can report problems online, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.