Code Enforcement Division

The Code Enforcement Division of the Inspections Department is responsible for enforcing city ordinances in an effort to promote and protect the public health, safety, and welfare of those individuals living, working, and doing business in the City of Hammond. Effective code enforcement promotes stable neighborhoods and property values while enhancing community pride.

The City of Hammond Code Enforcement Services Department enforces city ordinances that deal with housing, rental registration, nuisances, weeds, trash, litter, and general maintenance, and checks to see that residents and businesses are in compliance with these ordinances. Code Enforcement Inspectors also follow up on complaints of unsafe or unsightly properties. Code inspections apply to all single-family homes, businesses and rental properties. If a property is in need of repair, the inspectors will send a notice to the owner to repair the property. If the repairs are not made or the property is not brought up to current City Code, the Code Enforcement Commissioner may institute legal proceedings against the owner.

They perform visual inspections of city streets and alleys on a regular basis and are able to process code violations promptly using a state-of-the-art computer network.

The Code Enforcement inspectors enforce minimum housing standards and property maintenance codes. The Inspectors maintain rental registration records and conduct inspections to verify rental units are code compliant. The City of Hammond believes the best approach to enforcing local codes is through voluntary compliance. It is the mission of the Code Enforcement Services Department to educate property owners about the benefits of code compliance, and to make them aware of the assistance programs that help them to comply with city ordinances. Citations are issued only as a last resort and can result in court action and fines.

We work closely with the Lake County Health Department, Fire Inspection Bureau, Police Department, and Department of New Construction and Building Rehabilitation Services to ensure safe living conditions for the residents of the City of Hammond.

Homes and businesses that are properly maintained also encourage new businesses and homeowners to move to Hammond. New businesses create jobs and bring additional income to the city.

Take a look at the community development assistance programs. They might be of help to you. Many have eligibility requirements. In some cases, there are waiting lists.