Statistics show that blight is related to crime. When we fight blight, we fight crime, increase property values and make our city a better place to live, work and play.
Baton Rouge has started a campaign against blight with its new Litter Court program. Citizens may call 311 or 389-3090 to report violations. City inspectors take photos, then property owners are sent a letter from the city giving them 15 days to fix the violation. If the violation still exists when the inspector re-inspects, another letter setting a court date is sent to the property owner. Fine is $117, plus $50 in court costs.
Violations include:
1. Maintenance of Property - Is there an unoccupied, open building? Is the yard overgrown? Overgown means that more than half of the grass or vegetation exceeds 12 inches tall.
2. Maintenance of Swimming Pools - Is the water quality good? You must be able to see the bottom of the pool. The pool must be enclosed by a fence 5 feet high. The fence gate must close automatically, and the gate latch must lock automatically.
3. Accumulation of Junk, Trash & Debris - Is there junk, trash or debris in the front yard, back yard or carport?
4. Signs - Portable signs and banners are illegal on public and private property. Only permanent signs that have been permitted by the city/parish are legal. Campaign signs have a special permit, but should only be placed on private property.
5. Garbage Cans - Garbage cans must be stored on private property except between 4 p.m. the night before pick-up, and 6 a.m. the day after pick-up. They should be placed near the street, but not in the street.
For more information or for a service request, please contact:
The Office of Neighborhood Services
225-389-7871
FAX 225-389-5689
e-mail: neighborhoods@brgov.com
website: www.brgov.com - The "Requests for Service" is the 4th link in the left-hand sidebar. If you submit a service request online, be sure to print the page or write down the service request number.
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