Code Compliance

Purpose

The Community Development Department handles code compliance complaints regarding public nuisances, junk vehicles, sign violations, unpermitted clearing or illegal dumping, critical area disturbance, work without a permit, unapproved businesses, and other unapproved or unpermitted development activities on private property.

A code enforcement investigation is initiated only after submittal of a completed Code Compliance Request Form. The form is also available for pick up at the Civic Center. 

Code compliance requests are reviewed in the order they are received with priority given to health and life safety concerns. If the matter is an emergency, please call 911.  

Compliance requests for matters contained in Gig Harbor Municipal Code Chapter 8 & Chapter 9 which include parking issues, barking dogs, and disturbing the peace can be filed online or directed to Gig Harbor Police Department at (253) 851-2236.

Code compliance cases are investigated by staff for cases within city limits. To check if the matter is within the city limits, please refer to the interactive boundary map. 

Matters that are outside of city limits may be investigated by Pierce County. You can contact Pierce County Code Enforcement by calling (253)798-4636.

What we don't do

It's essential to recognize that Code Enforcement is not a substitute for law enforcement. Our primary goal is to achieve compliance through education and cooperation. Certain issues fall outside our jurisdiction, including:

•  Civil Disputes – Property line disagreements, non-payment for goods or services, title disputes, landlord-tenant conflicts, foreclosure issues, breach of contract, or fraud. For more information, please visit Pierce County web site or call them at (253)798-7487. 

• Law Enforcement Matters – Criminal activities, noise complaints, and trespassing, which should be directed to local law enforcement. Please visit GHPD web page for services and contact information. 
• Air Quality: Issues such as smoke, pollutants, odors, and burn bans. For more information, please visit the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department web site or contact them at (253)649-1877
• Licensing and Workplace Safety: Issues with contractors, electricians, plumbers, and workplace safety regulations. For more information, please visit the Department of Labor & Industries web site or contact them at (360)902-5800 
• Electrical Code: Permitting and violations related to electrical work. For more information please visit the Department of Labor & Industries web site or contact them at (360)902-5800