ABA Family Legal Guide

Home Ownership

Managing Neighborhood Problems

Handling Disputes

What can I do if my neighbor is violating a zoning ordinance?

Notifying the neighbors that they are violating an ordinance may take care of the problem. To file a complaint, you may have to contact the city attorney or the controlling agency, such as the local zoning board. If the city takes up the cause for you, it will require less effort and expense on your part than filing a lawsuit. You won't receive money, but your neighbor will either be ordered to comply with the zoning rules, pay a fine to the city, or both.