Environmental Health specialists investigate citizen complaints about high weeds, debris and inoperable vehicles, and resolve environmental health concerns through code enforcement of Norfolk’s nuisance ordinances. Call 757-683-2712 for more information.
Complaints
Section 29-58 of the Norfolk City Code is the enforcement tool for inoperable vehicles on private property. An Inoperable Vehicles is one which:
- Is missing tires, wheels, engine, essential body parts
- Displays extensive body damage
- Does not display current state license and current state inspection
- Is wrecked or dissembled
- Is not in operating condition
An inoperable vehicle may be kept in a fully enclosed building or structure. Notices of Violation are issued for abatement of the violation within 72 hours or a request is made for towing to the city's Towing and Recovery operation. For more information call 757-664-6510.
Exposure to loud noises is the biggest cause of premature hearing loss and other detrimental health effects. Studies have shown that exposure to too much noise over a short period of time can be just as damaging as chronic exposure to lower noise levels. The noise ordinance is found in Chapter 26 of the Norfolk City Code. For additional information on this ordinance, or for more information on Nuisance Complaints call 757-441-5610.
Violations
Solid waste violations can be divided into the following topics:
Illegal Dumping and/or the Accumulation of Solid Waste
Chapter 14.5 describes illegal dumping and/or the accumulation of solid waste as an environmental offense, which is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, subject to a fine of $2500, and/or 12 months in jail. A notice of violation may or may not be issued depending on the severity of the conditions.
Summons may be issued for immediate service. Proof of proper disposal may be required. Reports of illegal dumping may also be reported to the Environmental Crimes Task Force. It is important to offer a complete description of the violator, vehicles, type of debris, and exact address of site. It is a class 1 misdemeanor to dump, place or blow anything into the storm water drainage system. Call 757-664-6604 on Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. At other times call 911 to report the incident.
Pet Areas Kept Clean
Accumulation of dog / animal droppings (feces) contributes to fly breeding, provides food for rodents, may cause disease, and is a public health nuisance. Droppings should be removed daily.
Refuse (Garbage Storage & Collection)
The accumulation of garbage and trash creates odors, provides food for rodents, and provides organic materials necessary for fly breeding, causes disease and is public health nuisance. Trash and garbage is required to be stored in a container with a tight fitting lid. Containers must be stored at least 5 feet from the front of the building or screened from public view. Containers may be placed on the curb on collection day only (5 p.m. night before; removed no later than 11:30 p.m. night of collection).
Call 757-683-2712 to report violations. Bureau of Waste Management, Department of Public Works can be reached at 757-664-6510 for information on city collections and to schedule bulk waste removal. For recycling or household hazardous waste disposal information call the Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA) at 757-424-4297.