Jefferson Parish, LA Code Violation Reporting: How to Report (2026)

5. A resident who wants a violation investigated submits an affidavit or documentary evidence to the parish agency or department that enforces the specific ordinance; a notice of violation issues only once that evidence is sufficient to prove the alleged violation exists, per Sec. 5-7(f). Once a case opens, the enforcing department must notify the property owner and any known tenant at least 20 days before a hearing date, posting notice on the property and mailing it by first-class mail, per Sec. 5-7(a). The Bureau's clerk separately mails a hearing notice at least 15 days ahead by certified or registered mail.

A hearing officer appointed under Sec. 5-6 can administer oaths, subpoena witnesses and documents, levy fines up to the maximum set for Jefferson Parish courts, order corrective work, and, if the violator does not comply, take necessary steps to correct the violation directly. If the violator fails to appear despite proper notice, Sec. 5-7(d) treats that as an admission of liability, though a hearing officer can vacate that finding for good cause. Hearings follow the state Administrative Procedure Act's evidence rules, and the violator may bring an attorney or submit sworn documentary evidence instead of appearing in person.

At the close of a hearing, the officer issues a final order stating liability, any fine or hearing cost, and a correction deadline, mailed by certified or registered mail with notice of appeal rights. Unpaid fines and costs can become a lien against the property under Sec. 5-9, folded into the next ad valorem tax bill. A party aggrieved by the decision has 30 days from the date the order was signed to file a petition for appeal with the 24th Judicial District Court under Sec. 5-10.