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1. Once I make a complaint call on a property in violation, what kind of follow-up and time frame should I expect, and should I continue to call?

The complaint is investigated within a week. If a violation is found, a letter is sent within another week by Inspections. It gives the property owner 30 days from receipt to correct the violation. The property is then re-inspected and referred to the Parish Attorney’s office if the violation persists. The Parish Attorney sends a certified demand letter ordering compliance within 10 days, at which point the property is inspected once again and suit filed, if necessary.

2. The responses to my complaints come at about 3 a.m. Why have I had such slow response and lack of resolution by the police?

The police must prioritize what calls they respond to. For example, a burglary is something they would respond to before a complaint about loud music. If the officer in question failed to act in a manner you find satisfactory, call the Baton Rouge Police Department at 225-389-2000 or the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office at 225-389-5000.

3. How can we speed up the process of evicting violators of the laws?

You may aid the enforcement agents in gathering evidence, such as dated photographs or other records of violations. This evidence helps the Parish Attorney and the Permit and Inspections Division of the Department of Public Works make their case against the violators.

4. Why can’t the penalty be enhanced for zoning violations? A $500 penalty is not enough to deter the problem.

City ordinances all have set penalties for violations when categorized as misdemeanors or other lower crimes. A higher fine would require re-classification to a felony, which would require action by the legislature.

5. How do we go about getting regular police patrols in our neighborhood, especially on weekend nights?

Neighborhoods can request patrols or hire off-duty police officers to patrol their neighborhoods. For more information, contact the Baton Rouge Police Department at 225-389-2000 or the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office at 225-389-5000.

6. How can homeowners in a neighborhood bring action without hiring an attorney to see that the laws are enforced?

Report code violations by dialing 3-1-1. The City will pursue code violations and other problems. The Office of Neighborhoods will help you follow-up on the status of the case. If there are chronic problems with a neighbor, keep a record of when you had to call the police. You might also want to keep a photo account with dated photos. Neighbors are the on-the-spot witnesses for problems. They can be present when the police, sheriff, and city employees cannot.