Code Enforcement Division – Boston, MA

About the Code Enforcement Division

The Code Enforcement Division, part of the Boston Public Works Department, is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the city’s neighborhoods. Often referred to as the Code Enforcement Police, these officers patrol the city to ensure compliance with sanitation and quality-of-life ordinances. Their primary goal is to educate residents and businesses about city codes while issuing citations for violations that degrade the public realm.

Key Responsibilities

Code Enforcement officers investigate and issue fines for a variety of non-criminal violations, including:

• Improper Trash Disposal: Enforcing rules regarding the timing of trash placement, the use of proper barrels, and illegal dumping.
• Snow Removal: issuing tickets to property owners who fail to shovel sidewalks within the mandated timeframes after a storm.
• Illegal Signage: Removing and citing for posters, stickers, or commercial signs placed on public property (utility poles, light posts) without a permit.
• Site Cleanliness: Ensuring dumpsters are not overflowing and that private properties are kept free of garbage and debris.

Contact and Location

The division operates out of Boston City Hall. While officers are frequently in the field, administrative inquiries can be directed to their office. Residents can report code violations, such as missed trash pickups or unshoveled sidewalks, through the city’s 311 system or the BOS:311 app.

• Reporting: For immediate non-emergency issues, residents are encouraged to call 311.
• Appeals: Information on how to appeal a sanitation ticket is available through the Office of the Parking Clerk.