We've all done it. You are out walking in your neighborhood and there it is, that one yard with the trash and old appliances and dead vehicle pulled up on the grass. And you've asked yourself, "What can I do about that?" Well now you can!
Neighborhoods Organized To Initiate Code Enforcement is a new community support program designed to help citizens identify and report codes violations in their neighborhoods. The NOTICE program empowers citizens and allows them to work together with the Codes Enforcement staff. Neighbors can now become a direct participant in the inspection process that helps improve and maintain their own neighborhood.
The program is based on the formation of Volunteer Inspection Teams. These teams will receive training on the inspection process and will be given special Inspection Worksheets to use for reporting violations.
Program Objectives
Clean up of the exterior of residential or commercial buildings, grounds, and vacant lots.
Instilling a sense of community pride and help stem further blight of the neighborhood.
Foster community involvement in the up keep of the neighborhood and our city.
A good inspection program is an administrative tool used to enforce public policy. It is essential for public safety and consumer protection. Often, our neighbors simply do not realize they are breaking the rules. The goal of Codes Enforcement is not to exercise police like powers, but rather to use sound judgment and work cooperatively towards assisting the public. This can only be accomplished by establishing a good working relationship with all members of our community. The NOTICE program will do just that.
The first step to participating in the NOTICE program is for you to contact your neighborhood association. The program is only open to neighborhood associations / groups. Neighborhoods wishing to participate should identify six to twelve group members who will form their Volunteer Inspection Team. You would then need to complete a short application. We will review all applications and make arrangements to provide training to the volunteers.
Groups interested in participating in this new program should contact Bill Penn with the Property Standards division at 862-6516 or email bill.penn@nashville.gov.