Written by Jayson Elliott · Attorney, Bay Legal PC · CA Bar No. 332479 · Last reviewed April 2026
What to Do When You Get a Violation Notice
On This Page
Step 1: Read the Notice Carefully
Every notice contains the specific code sections violated, the compliance deadline, consequences of non-compliance, and response instructions. The deadline starts when issued, not when you read it.
Step 2: Contact the Building Department
Call the issuing department. Ask for the specific inspector. Be cooperative. Ask what steps are needed and whether a compliance extension is possible.
Step 3: Evaluate Your Options
Options may include after-the-fact permits, corrections to bring work to code, documentation that work is already compliant, or requesting an administrative hearing if you dispute the violation.
Step 4: Identify Who Is Responsible
If a contractor performed the unpermitted work, they may be liable. Gather your contract, payment records, and communications. If you purchased the property with undisclosed unpermitted work, the seller may be liable.
Step 5: Take Action Before the Deadline
Respond before the deadline. Even if you cannot fully resolve the violation in time, demonstrating good faith — filing a permit application, hiring a contractor, or requesting an extension — can prevent fines from starting.
Bay Legal PC — Permit Violation Law Attorneys
Bay Legal PC in Palo Alto handles permit violation law disputes throughout California. Free initial consultations available.
Get a Free Consultation →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do after getting a violation notice?
Read the entire notice carefully, noting the specific violation, compliance deadline, and instructions. Then contact the building department to discuss your options before the deadline.
Can I get an extension on a code enforcement deadline?
In most jurisdictions, yes — if you ask before the deadline and demonstrate good faith effort toward compliance. Call the enforcement officer listed on the notice.
Should I contact my contractor about the violation notice?
Yes. If the contractor caused the violation, notify them in writing and demand they participate in resolving it. This communication becomes important evidence if you need to pursue a claim later.
"Jayson and Ashley helped me tremendously with a construction dispute in which my previous general contractor abandoned the project. I cannot recommend them enough."
— Josey, Google Review
"I had issues with a contract that was not fulfilled. Jayson sent a demand letter outlining where the contract was breached. In the end I was paid back and got the outcome I wanted."
— Jennifer, Google Review
"I cannot imagine how we would have navigated our conflict with our contractor had it not been for Jayson. He was professional, compassionate, informative and responsive."
— David, Google Review
Talk to an Attorney — Free Consultation
Bay Legal PC handles permit violation law disputes throughout California. Tell us about your situation and we'll be in touch promptly.
Call or text: (650) 668-8000 · Phone, video, or Palo Alto office
Jayson Elliott, Bay Legal PC · Palo Alto, California
✓ We received your message.
A member of the Bay Legal PC team will contact you shortly. See our Privacy Policy.
Or visit Bay Legal PC directly:
Visit BayLegal.com →