Smithfield adopts staged enforcement process for zoning violations
Council approved an ordinance that clarifies zoning enforcement with a five-step progression from warnings to civil remedies, aiming to reduce criminal enforcement and lower fees.
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The Smithfield City Council adopted an ordinance revising Chapter 17.08.070 to clarify the city’s approach to zoning violations and penalties. The new process emphasizes progressive civil enforcement: (1) an initial warning letter, (2) a second warning letter, (3) issuance of a citation, (4) a second citation, and (5) a civil suit or property lien for nonpayment or noncompliance. The Planning Commission reviewed and recommended the changes, and the council voted 5-0 to adopt the ordinance.
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