PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Code Enforcement Division The Code Enforcement Division's primary mission is to protect the health and well being of Takoma Park residents through the preservation of its residential and commercial infrastructure. Our responsibilities include the inspection and licensing of residential rental structures, community-wide enforcement of the Property Maintenance Code and other nuisance ordinances, the investigation of nuisance complaints, and referrals to appropriate county and state agencies in situations where local codes do not apply. Enforcement efforts are coordinated to the greatest extent possible with other City departments and County and State officials. We also work closely with the community, maintaining positive relationships with Takoma Park business associations, neighborhood groups, property owners and residents. To be effective and efficient, code enforcement also needs the cooperation of residents and businesses.

The Property Maintenance Code establishes minimum standards for the overall maintenance of owner occupied and rental housing, vacant and abandoned buildings, commercial properties and undeveloped parcels in Takoma Park. The standards are designed to maintain a healthy, safe and clean environment and to preserve the quality of life that our residents and businesses enjoy in our community.

The standards established by Montgomery County Maryland have been adopted by the City and are used to determine if a property is being appropriately maintained.

. Property Maintenance Code

Property Maintenance Code Inspections and Enforcement

The property maintenance inspection and enforcement process can be initiated in one of several ways. An inspection can be conducted in response to a complaint by an individual, as a result of an observation of City staff; or as a consequence of an action such as filing for a rental housing license or a permit. City staff responds to complaints according to the impact of the violation on the community. Situations that appear to pose a serious risk to health and safety are given top priority; others are pursued in the order in which they are received.

For all types of code complaints, the first step in the follow-up procedure is personal contact by a City staff member to see if a code violation exists and to request compliance. If the individual responsible for the situation is not available or appears unwilling to voluntarily correct the code violation in a timely manner, a notice of violation or a citation may be issued. The City may also take court action if the situation poses a significant risk to the community or if the individual has ignored previous notices/citations.

. Violations
. ACTion for on-line

Rental Housing Licensing

The City of Takoma Park requires all residential rental property to be licensed, including single family houses. Owner-occupied single family houses are excluded from this requirement. When purchasing a rental property, a new owner should register the transfer of property by completing a license application form which can be obtained in the office of Housing and Community Development, 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland.

For details on the rental property licensing program, call 301.891.7255.

. Rental Housing License Application Form

Rental Housing Inspections

Prior to the issuance of a rental housing license by the City of Takoma Park, all rental facilities must be inspected. Inspections are conducted under contract with the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs' Code Enforcement staff. County inspection staff also responds to all complaints filed by tenants or others regarding the condition of a rental property. All rental properties must be maintained in accordance with minimum property standards adopted by the City Council.

. Rental Housing Licensing and Complaint Contacts
. Property Maintenance Code

Landlord Certification Program

Mandated by the City Code, this program provides for the certification of Takoma Park landlords and property agents. The three-year certification is required prior to the issuance of all rental housing licensed and can be obtained by attending a 90 minute seminar which is offered once a month or upon the successful completion of a 60-question multiple choice exam.

. Landlord Certification Requirements
. Certification