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Code Violation Reporting in Washington, DC (2026)

3 verified code violation reporting rules for Washington, District of Columbia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

How to Report

Washington DC accepts code violation reports through 311 by phone, online at 311.dc.gov, or through the DC 311 mobile app. The Department of Buildings (DOB) handles building code violations and illegal construction. DCRA handles housing code inspections.

How to Report Code Violations in Washington DC

Some Restrictions

Response Times

DC DOB prioritizes code enforcement by severity. Emergency safety complaints receive same-day or next-day response. Standard building code and housing complaints are typically investigated within 5-15 business days.

Washington DC Code Enforcement Response Times

Some Restrictions

Common Violations

DC's most common code violations include unpermitted construction, illegal basement conversions, property maintenance failures, work exceeding permit scope, and zoning violations. DOB enforces the DC Construction Codes and Housing Code.

Common Code Violations in Washington DC

Heavy Restrictions

Looking for District of Columbia county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Washington city rules.

Code Violation Reporting in District of Columbia