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Code Enforcement
“Protecting Health, Safety, and Community Standards”
The Code Enforcement Division ensures that Calimesa remains a safe, attractive, and well-maintained community. We work to uphold the Calimesa Municipal Code to protect the public's health, safety, and overseeing the registration of vacant and abandoned properties.
OpenGov - Report a Problem
The City utilizes OpenGov - Report a Problem, a new online portal that allows residents to conveniently report issues to the Code Enforcement Division 24 hours a day, 7 days a week online.
Register for your free user account - create an OpenGov ID
Residents can report concerns directly by submitting the ‘Complaint Form’ in the OpenGov link above, or in person. Once a complaint is submitted, our team follows the steps below.
To initiate a complaint, the reporting party must create an online account and submit a complaint form. Once submitted, the report is documented, and a case number is assigned if the alleged violation is confirmed.
The investigation may include property research, onsite inspections, and interviews with the reporting party, tenants, property managers, or neighbors. Code Enforcement will review the facts and evidence collected to determine whether a violation has occurred.
Confirmed violations are addressed with property owners through notices, warnings, or citations as needed. Re-inspections are conducted to verify compliance, and cases are closed once the violation is corrected. If the violation persists, the case may be referred to County Counsel for civil or criminal proceedings.
Unresolved cases may proceed to a formal hearing, where property owners can present evidence or appeal enforcement actions. Administrative citations and written orders can be reviewed by a hearing officer. The hearing officer will determine whether a violation existed at the time the citation was issued and whether the cited party committed, caused, or allowed the violation to occur. Compliance continues to be monitored until the issue is resolved. An advance deposit of the fine may be required for the hearing.
*Helpful Hints
To assist Code Enforcement staff in investigating a complaint, please consider the following:
• Provide the property address, parcel number, or other specific location details.
• Include your contact information so staff can follow up with any questions.
Our Responsibilities Include:
- Abating of zoning code violations
- Enforcing business license requirements
- Maintaining the code enforcement database
- Monitoring vacant and abandoned properties monthly
We issue citations as necessary and work closely with the City Attorney's Office to bring properties into compliance.
Property Safety and Maintenance
The safety and well-being of our residents and businesses is a top priority. The City enforces standards to ensure all properties are safe and visually maintained. Areas of concern include:
- Substandard and vacant buildings
- Pools and water safety
- Electrical, sewer, gas, water, and trash
- Improperly constructed fences, sheds, and accessory structures
- Unsafe and illegal conversions
To maintain the City’s appearance and safety standards, Code Enforcement also addresses:
- Non-operational vehicles on private and public property
- Trash and abandoned appliances
- Overgrown landscaping and vegetation
Parking Enforcement
Parking enforcement is managed by a Community Service Officer (CSO) within the Riverside Sheriff's Department. The CSO enforces local and state parking laws on public property.
Abandoned Vehicles
If you see an abandoned vehicle on public property, please contact Calimesa Code Enforcement. Characteristics of abandoned vehicles may include:
- Flat tires or missing parts
- Broken windows or graffiti
- Expired registration of body damage
- Trash, debris, or cobwebs around the tires
- Unsecured doors
Vehicles may not be stored on public streets for extended periods. A vehicle left on the street for 72 hours or more may be marked for removal in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) and Calimesa Municipal Code (March 11, 2003).