Philadelphia residents can report code violations through Philly311 by calling 311 (or 215-686-8686 from outside the city), using the Philly311 mobile app, submitting online at phila.gov/311, or emailing philly311@phila.gov. The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) handles building and property code enforcement.
Philly311 is the City of Philadelphia's centralized customer service center for non-emergency requests and code violation reporting. Residents can file complaints about unlicensed contractors, unpermitted work, unsafe buildings, property maintenance violations, and zoning violations. The Philly311 call center operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Online and app submissions can be made 24/7. The mobile app allows users to attach photos and use GPS to pinpoint violation locations. Requests are routed to the appropriate department, primarily the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) for building and property code issues. L&I's Code Enforcement division investigates complaints and issues Code Violation Notices (CVNs). The Neighborhood Nuisance Enforcement Division of the Philadelphia Police Department handles persistent nuisance properties. Email submissions can be sent to philly311@phila.gov.
Code Violation Notices (CVNs) are issued by L&I inspectors. Fines vary by violation type and are outlined in Philadelphia Code Section 1-109. Failure to pay CVNs can result in liens on the property. Repeat violations may lead to escalating penalties.
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