Battle Creek, MI Code Violation Reporting: How to Report (2026)

Section 1462.04 of the Battle Creek Codified Ordinances covers the people who report violations of the Housing Code, which is enforced through the Property Maintenance Code (PMC). The City shall not release any information regarding the name, address or telephone number of a reporter. Three exceptions are printed: the complainant consents, the Freedom of Information Act, Public Act 442 of 1976, as amended, requires disclosure, or a court orders it.

A report matters because § 1462.01(a) lists a complaint received by the City indicating a Housing Code violation as a basis for inspection. Records generated and maintained by the Environmental Control Division are regulated by the same Freedom of Information Act under § 1462.05.

After a report, the inspector who observes a violation triggers an order to repair or correct conditions under § 1462.08. The order names the inspection date and address, the inspector's name, telephone number and signature, each violation observed, a correction date, and a re-inspection notice. The responsible party is told of the right to appeal to the Board of Appeals.

For overgrown lots, amended PMC 302.4.2 in § 1450.03 authorizes the City Manager or a designated agent to inspect a lot or parcel upon receiving a complaint of a nuisance, or on his or her own initiative, entering at reasonable times and under reasonable conditions. Weeds or plant growth in excess of Nine inches violate PMC 302.4, and notice to abate gives at least ten calendar days from service under PMC 302.4.3. Inside a dwelling, § 1462.06 requires consent or a warrant or court order.