Code Enforcement

The Planning Department enforces the nuisance provisions in Chapter 11 of the Code of Ordinances, which include issues such as noxious growth, junk vehicles and solid waste concerns. The Planning Department also enforces the Minimum Housing Code, which includes minimum standards for the condition of dwellings. The Code of Ordinances applies only to properties within town limits. The Minimum Housing Code can be enforced in the town limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction.

For specific nuisance provisions or definitions, see Chapter 11 of the Code of Ordinances. The chapter includes the following general issues:
- The accumulation of household trash, yard waste or scrap material.
- Noxious growth of weeds, grasses or other plants that poses a danger to public health and safety.
- Two or more junked motor vehicles, which are defined as motor vehicles that exhibit two or more of the following characteristics:
  - Is partially dismantled or wrecked.
  - Cannot be self-propelled or moved in the manner originally intended.
  - Is more than 5 years old and appears to be worth less than $100.
  - Does not display a current license plate when the motor vehicle is required by state law to have such a license plate to operate on public roads.
If you suspect an occupied or vacant property in town does not comply with the nuisance provisions, please submit a complaint using the link below.

The Minimum Housing Code sets minimum standards for dwelling units, which include standards for structural condition; plumbing, heating, and electrical equipment; ventilation; space for habitation; and control of insect and rodent infestations. The code does not include standards relating to mold infestations, so the town is unable to address concerns of this nature unless a water leak also is present. The code is separate from state building codes, which are enforced by Orange County.

If you suspect an occupied or vacant property in town does not meet the minimum housing code, please submit a complaint using the link below.

Minimum Housing Code

Orange County Justice United and EmPOWERment Inc. have compiled a Declaration of Tenants Rights and Obligations. The intent is to prevent and resolve disputes between tenants and landlords by clarifying the legal requirements for both parties.

If you are renting property within Hillsborough town limits, believe your living conditions are substandard and your landlord has not addressed your concerns, please submit a complaint using the link below.

Declaración de los Derechos de los Inquilinos y Obligaciones

Declaration of Tenants Rights and Obligations

You may submit an anonymous complaint, but staff will not be able to contact you with updates.

Inspections and follow-up are done by a part-time contractor who works in Hillsborough one day every two weeks. Please understand that it may take a few days to hear a response concerning your complaint. In most cases, owners are given at least 30 days to comply. The majority of complaints can be resolved in 90 days, but some take longer. The town’s focus is on long-term compliance, not on issuing and collecting fines or penalties.

To talk to staff about potential code violations, or for updates on submitted complaints, call 919-296-9600.

Online code enforcement complaint form