Lacey, WA Code Violation Reporting: How to Report (2026)

LMC Chapter 14.17 governs violations of the City of Lacey building and fire codes in Title 14. Under LMC 14.17.020 the building official/fire marshal enforces the chapter and can call on the police, fire, planning and community and economic development departments for help. Entry onto a building or premises needs the consent of the owner or occupier or a lawfully issued inspection warrant, and the officer presents proper credentials. The chapter is enforced for the benefit of the general public, not any particular person, and the obligation to comply falls on the owner, occupier or other person responsible for the condition.

An investigation starts whenever the building official/fire marshal reasonably believes a structure or use does not comply. For property maintenance problems, LMC 14.16.016 section 104.3.1 adds that an enforcement determination follows a complaint filed with the department by any person, and tenants must first exhaust Washington State Landlord Tenant Act remedies unless an immediate life safety or health condition exists.

A notice of violation must give a separate statement of each provision violated, the corrective action needed, a reasonable time for compliance and a warning about criminal prosecution for subsequent violations. The time allowed reflects the type and degree of violation, the party's stated intent to comply, the permit steps needed for correction, the complexity of the work including seasonal considerations and landlord and tenant prerogatives, and circumstances beyond the party's control.

Service is by personal service, registered mail or certified mail with return receipt requested. If the person cannot be found after reasonable efforts and an affidavit, the notice is published once each week for two consecutive weeks in the city's official newspaper and mailed first class to the address on the Thurston County assessor's parcel data. A copy is posted at a conspicuous place on the property and filed with the Thurston County auditor, unless the notice is directed only to someone other than the owner. The city can also mail or post a notice to every rental unit in the structure.

A notice of violation under this chapter carries no administrative appeal (LMC 14.17.070). A stop work order or emergency order follows when a violation threatens health or safety.