FAQs • Balch Springs, TX • CivicEngage

This seems like a waste of tax dollars. Why don’t you go after “real criminals?”: The Code Enforcement Division exists to protect the quality of life of all residents in the City of Balch Springs. It has a different purpose than law enforcement. Code Enforcement helps maintain property values and improves areas that have become blighted with debris, overgrowth or graffiti. Areas that have become blighted are more likely to have a higher crime rate than those areas that are well maintained and free from Code violations.

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Code Enforcement

1. Where can I find a copy of the City of Balch Springs Code of Ordinances?: To view the City of Balch Springs Code of Ordinances click on the link https://www.municode.com/library/tx/balch_springs/codes/code_of_ordinances.

2. How are Codes Enforced?: Enforcement is typically initiated in response to a complaint by an individual or as an observation of a code violation by town staff as they patrol the community.

3. How do I report a violation and can I remain anonymous?: Call the Code Enforcement Division at 972-286-4477 Ext#237. Please provide the correct address and give a brief description of the potential violation. If you choose to remain anonymous, the Code Enforcement Division will still investigate the report. You should understand that, if you do leave your name and phone number, it becomes public record and is available to any citizen for review.

4. How will I know that my complaint was acted upon?: If you have made a complaint and do not see any action, please contact Code Enforcement 972-286-4477 Ext#235 and we will gladly check the computer records and update you on the status of the investigation.

5. I received a notice of violation on a house that I own, but I rent this property to a tenant. Why don’t you issue the notice to the tenant?: In most cases, the tenant was issued a Notice of Violation, and you, as the property owner would have been notified of the violation by mail. As the property owner, you are legally responsible for any violations of City ordinances. If your tenant does not come into compliance, you could be held responsible.

6. What happens if it is determined that I have violated a local ordinance?: It depends on the violation. In most cases, if there is no public danger, a Notice of Violation is issued giving the resident a reasonable amount of time to comply. A Code Officer will re-inspect the property at the end of the designated compliance time. If the property is found to be in compliance, the case is closed.

7. My neighbors have the same violations, why have you selected me?: The Code Enforcement Division does not conduct selective enforcement. The Officers try to cover their entire zone routinely. In addition, the officers respond to all complaints that are filed with our office. You may be unaware that the attempt to remedy a violation is already in progress. Please feel free to call the Code Enforcement Division office to inquire about a specific address 972-286-4477 Ext#235.

8. This seems like a waste of tax dollars. Why don’t you go after “real criminals?”: The Code Enforcement Division exists to protect the quality of life of all residents in the City of Balch Springs. It has a different purpose than law enforcement. Code Enforcement helps maintain property values and improves areas that have become blighted with debris, overgrowth or graffiti. Areas that have become blighted are more likely to have a higher crime rate than those areas that are well maintained and free from Code violations.

9. Who do I call if there is an abandoned vehicle on the street or for parking control on public streets?: Call the Balch Springs Police Department non-emergency number 972-557-6000.

10. Who should I call about barking dogs?: Call the City of Balch Springs Animal Control at 972-557-6035.

11. Who do I contact regarding bulk trash pick up, solid waste or illegal dumping?: Contact the Solid Waste Department at 972-286-4477 Ext#133.

12. Do I need a business license to operate my own business?: Yes. Contact the Permits Department at 972-286-4477 Ext#127 for business license/ certificate of occupancy information and requirements.

13. I am having a yard sale this weekend. Do I need a permit, where can I obtain a permit and can I put signs up to advertise the sale?: Yes a permit is needed in order to conduct a yard sale. However, you may only place signs on your property where the sale is occurring or on other private properties with owner's permission. No signs are allowed in any right-of-way or attached to telephone poles, trees or other existing signs. To obtain a permit go to: 3117 Hickory Tree Rd. Balch Springs, Texas 75180. For more information call 972-557-6070.