Welcome to

The Code Compliance Connection! 

October 2025

Small Actions. BIG Impact. 

 At Code Compliance Services, we know that small actions can create a big impact in our communities.

This newsletter is your source for updates, tips, resources, and success stories that show how residents like you help keep Dallas safe, clean, and beautiful. Each month, we’ll share ways you can play a part in keeping our city thriving.

You’ll find details on upcoming events like the completion of the Rilla Ave. beautification project, learn how Code is keeping the State Fair safe for you and your family, meet the Night Entertainment Team working to keep residents and nightlife safe, and explore our Concept to Curb initiative helping mobile food unit operators stay in compliance.

Director's Message 

As the State Fair of Texas kicks off, Code Compliance is proud to play a vital role in keeping the celebration safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Our inspectors are on-site daily, ensuring food stands, vendors, and public spaces meet health and safety standards so families can focus on the fun. At the same time, we’re excited to begin a new fiscal year, building on our commitment to service, safety, and community connection.

Together, we look forward to a year of progress and pride in the work we do for Dallas residents.

View the full Director's Message below.

Events Calendar

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October 3

Re: Imagine Vacancy – Pleasant Grove

Unveiling Ceremony

7711 Rilla Ave 

Dallas, TX 75217

Join us for the unveiling celebration of the Rilla Ave. Beautification Project!

Enjoy food, live music, and a special appearance by District 5 Council Member

Jamie Resendez.

6 p.m. - 8p.m.

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October 4

Celebrating 50 Years of the Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico and Recreation Center 

Anita N. Martinez Recreation Center 

3212 N. Winnetka Ave

Dallas, TX 75212 

Join us for this special event celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico and the Anita N. Martinez Recreation Center. 

11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

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October 5

Unidos With Di'Lolas Cancer Walk 2025

Bachman Lake Park 

3500 W. Northwest Hwy. 

Dallas, TX 75220 

Join the Dallas Police Department and the Office of Community Police Oversight for a 5K Walk to Fight Cancer, followed by a Health & Safety Fair. This family-friendly event will feature community resources, food, and entertainment.

8:00 a.m.- noon

Register here.

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October 7

National Night Out 2025 

National Night Out is a community-building event that brings neighbors, police, and city partners together to strengthen relationships and promote safer neighborhoods.

Each October we celebrate with block parties, cookouts, and neighborhood gatherings where residents can meet first responders, learn about safety resources, and connect with one another in a fun, family-friendly setting.

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More National Night Out events are happening across the city—come join the fun!

We hope to see you there!

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Food Safety Training 

Virtual 

This resource is designed to assist individuals and groups involved in unsheltered feeding events by providing clear access to training opportunities and compliance requirements. This is part of our ongoing efforts to educate and support volunteers serving the Central Business District (CBD), promoting safe and responsible food handling practices.

Join us for our virtual Food Safety Training (Chapter 17-1.6) on the first Tuesday of each month to learn safe and responsible food handling practices. 

9:00 a.m. - noon

Register here.

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Empowered To Protect: Smart Choices Against Fraud & Scams 

Dallas College | Mountain View Campus

Building B, Room 149 

4849 W. Illinois Ave

Dallas, TX 75211

Protect yourself from common scams or fraud targeting older adults and what steps to take if you've been affected. To register for the event or request additional assistance, including interpretive services or ADA accommodation, please contact agefriendlydallas@dallas.gov or call 214-670-5227. 

10 a.m. - noon

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October 9

Join the Senior Conversation

Concord Church | Fellowship Hall 

6808 Pastor Bailey Drive 

Dallas, TX 75237

Meet District 3 City Council Member Zarin Gracey and the Senior Affairs Commissioner for a conversation on the needs of older adults in our community. Share your thoughts and learn more about the services available to senior residents.

Register here. 

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

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October 11

Community Clean Trash- Off:

New Mount Zion Baptist Church

9550 Shepherd Rd.

Dallas, TX 75243

Dispose of bulk trash, tires, household hazardous waste, and documents for shredding—free of charge!

Our citywide cleanups have removed thousands of pounds of debris, helping keep Dallas cleaner, safer, and more beautiful.

7 a.m. - 11 a.m. 

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October 13

Indigenous Peoples Day

Code Compliance Services will be closed in observance of Indigenous Peoples Day. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

For more City of Dallas department closures click here. 

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October 14

Code Compliance at Dallas Zoo

Dallas Zoo 

650 South RL Thornton Fwy. 

Dallas, TX 75203

Join Code Compliance Services at the Dallas Zoo. Learn about Code, ask questions, and collect stamps for your Zoo Passport! 

Register here! 

9:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

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October 15

Boarding Home Community Outreach 

Eco Park 

5215 Simpson Stuart Rd. 

Dallas, TX 75241

This meeting is for current-licensed operators only. 

Come meet the Boarding Home Division, ask questions, and learn more about updates and best practices in the field.

9:00 a.m. and 1p.m. 

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October 16

Required: Scrap Tire Training (STEP)

Virtual

All business owners, managers, and new agents must attend one of the required training sessions to maintain compliance with the City of Dallas Scrap Tire License Program. 

Register Here: Required Scrap Tire (STEP) Training Registration

10:00 a.m.- noon 

October 18

 Resident Code Academy

Grauwyler Recreation Center

7780 Harry Hines Boulevard

Dallas, TX 75235

Join the City of Dallas Code Compliance Services to learn more about common code violations and the services provided by the Code team.

Click here to register for Resident Code Academy.

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Branching Out: Volunteer Tree Planting Events 

J.J. Craft Park 

4500 Spring Avenue 

Dallas, TX 75210

Join Dallas City Council and Dallas Park and Recreation Board members at these community reforestation activities to keep City of Dallas parks green. 

Register to volunteer here. Individuals and groups are encouraged to participate. 

9:00 a.m.

October 25

4th Annual Halloween Family Weekend

Sammons Park 

2403 Flora Street

Dallas, TX 75201

Join the Dallas Police Department and the AT&T Performing Arts Center for a free, family-friendly event filled with fall fun! Enjoy a petting zoo, costume contest, and more activities for all ages. Don’t miss this spooktacular opportunity to celebrate community, togetherness, and seasonal festivities.

RSPV here- you do not want to miss out! 

10:00 a.m.- 1 p.m.

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Branching Out: Volunteer Tree Planting Events 

Sargent Park 

2825 Sargent Park

Dallas, TX 75216

Join Dallas City Council and Dallas Park and Recreation Board members at these community reforestation activities to keep City of Dallas parks green. 

Register to volunteer here. Individuals and groups are encouraged to participate. 

9:00 a.m.

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October 31

Happy Halloween

See something spooky? 🎃

This Halloween season, don’t let scary code violations haunt your neighborhood!

From frightful high weeds to ghostly illegal dumping, report issues to 311 so Code Compliance can help keep Dallas safe and welcoming for all.

Report violations here. 

What's Happening in Code? 

Meet the Night Entertainment Team (NET)

The Night Entertainment Team (NET) is dedicated to addressing after-hours issues related to nightlife businesses such as pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants. Common concerns include noise complaints, zoning violations, Certificate of Occupancy discrepancies, and illegal vending.

What makes NET unique is our community-centered approach.

We believe in engaging with businesses and residents early, working together to find collaborative solutions before problems escalate. This approach not only helps prevent violations but also builds stronger relationships between the City, businesses, and surrounding neighborhoods.

While enforcement is sometimes necessary, it is always considered a last resort.

Our priority is to promote responsible nighttime operations, maintain neighborhood livability and safety, and ensure that both businesses and residents have a voice.

NET is here to support the community, encourage compliance, and create a nightlife environment that is enjoyable and respectful for everyone.

Learn more about the Night Entertainment Team here. 

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Code Compliance Services was recently featured in The Dallas Morning News for our work ensuring safe and healthy living conditions in apartment communities across Dallas. Through the Multi-tenant Inspection and Response Program, our team conducts graded inspections both inside and outside apartment units to confirm compliance with Chapter 27 of the City Code.

The article highlights a new way residents can anonymously request inspections through QR code flyers and questionnaires, helping tenants report issues without fear of retaliation. Inspections check for key safety standards such as functioning locks, proper heating and cooling, hot water access, and safe electrical systems.

With more than 2,100 registered apartment and condominium complexes citywide, Code Compliance remains committed to protecting residents and holding property owners accountable.

 Read the full story on The Dallas Morning News website.

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New Registration Fees for

Single-Family and Multi-Tenant Properties 

Beginning October 1, 2025, the City of Dallas will implement updated rental property registration fees. Owners of single-family homes, duplexes, and condo units will now pay an annual fee of $74 per unit, while multi-tenant property owners will pay $13 per unit, based on the total number of units on site regardless of occupancy. Annual registration also requires submitting an online application, the Owner’s Self-Inspection Checklist with affidavit, and compliance with City inspections—at least once every five years for single-family, duplex, and condo units, and at least once every three years for multi-tenant properties. For complete requirements, see Chapter 27 of the Dallas City Code .

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Contract Demolition Program 

Celebrating Community Prosecution’s Impact in Fiscal Year 2025

This fiscal year, Community Prosecution has delivered 53 training classes to the Code Department — including 23 Code Academy courses covering critical topics that support field operations and compliance efforts.

This also marks the first year of implementing Senior Code Enforcement Officers, and we’re incredibly proud of the impressive milestones they’ve already achieved. We’d like to take a moment to highlight their dedication and accomplishments!

Our 12 Senior Code Inspectors work citywide, partnering closely with city attorneys, police detectives, and fire inspectors to address complex problem properties that pose a threat to public safety and quality of life.

Through proactive enforcement and strategic legal action, they tackle persistent issues such as vacant, abandoned, and poorly maintained properties — sites that often contribute to crime and economic decline. While we always strive for voluntary compliance, we escalate enforcement when necessary, including civil litigation and court intervention.

One major success this year involved the long-vacant former Tri-City Hospital site at 7525 Scyene Road. Abandoned since 2002, the property had become a serious public safety concern due to hazardous conditions, repeated fires, and criminal activity. In 2017, the site drew heightened attention after a Dallas Police canine was seriously injured falling into an open elevator shaft.

In February 2025, the Community Prosecution team filed a successful petition for a court-appointed receiver to take control of the property. This legal action enabled demolition and cleanup efforts to move forward — with demolition beginning in July 2025 and remediation currently underway. These efforts are already improving neighborhood safety and setting the stage for future development opportunities at the site.

By working directly in neighborhoods, our inspectors remain accessible, responsive, and committed to improving safety, stability, and livability across all Dallas communities.

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Consumer Health Division

State Fair Pre-Inspections

As the excitement builds for Opening Day of the State Fair of Texas, the Consumer Health Division has taken proactive steps to ensure food safety is front and center.

In coordination with State Fair leadership, Consumer Health staff led a comprehensive vendor preparation effort, providing clear guidance on permit requirements, inspection protocols, and operational readiness. From handwashing stations to cold-holding temperatures, vendors were briefed on critical public health standards to help prevent foodborne illness during one of Dallas' most anticipated annual events. The team also issued vendor credentials and distributed key educational materials to support smooth inspections and ensure compliance throughout the 24-day fair season.

This effort underscores the division’s commitment to balancing festive celebration with public safety, reinforcing our “Service First, Now” mission through education, engagement, and effective communication.

Thanks to these early outreach efforts, food vendors are better equipped to serve millions of fairgoers with confidence and care.

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Protect Yourself from Legionella

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The FOUR D's:

Dress. Deet. Drain. Dusk to Dawn. 

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Code Compliance District Offices 

Central Code District

320 E Jefferson Blvd. Room 218​ 

Dallas, TX 75203 

Phone: 214-948-4088 

Northeast Code District

7901 Goforth Rd.

Dallas, TX 75238

Phone: 214-670-9703

Northwest Code District

9803 Harry Hines Blvd.

Dallas, TX 75235

Phone: 214-670-9713

South Central Code District

320 E. Jefferson Blvd., Room LL14

 Dallas, TX 75215

Phone: 214-948-4587

North Central Code District

 7901 Goforth Rd.

Dallas, TX 75238

Phone: 214-670-9703

Southeast Code District

2721 Municipal St. 

Dallas, TX. 75216

Phone: 214-671-0978

Southwest Code District

4230 W. Illinois Ave. 

Dallas, TX 75211

Phone: 214-670-6860

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To learn more about our Code divisions, what they do, and how they can support you please click the link below. 

Recap and Rewind

Take a look back at all of the work and engagement that has happened over the past month with our various Code Compliance Divisions! 

School Supplies Drop-Off 

Code Compliance Services participated in the annual Back School Supplies Drop-Off, gathering supplies and donating them to a local DISD schools of their choice.

Team members generously used their own resources to purchase and donate backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other essential classroom items. Their contributions reflect our strong commitment to community service and help ensure that every child starts the school year prepared and empowered.

Director Chris Christian, Assistant Director Cedric Secoundiata,and the Targeted Community Programs team at J.J. Rhoads Learning Center. 

Consumer Health Division at Ben Milam Elementary School.  

Nuisance Abatement at J.N. Ervin Elementary School.

Nuisance Abatement at Fredrick Douglass Elementary School. 

North Central District at Anne Frank Elementary School. 

Southwest District at Arcadia Park Elementary School.

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Going Beyond Compliance:

Service with Heart for Mrs. Smith

Two of Code’s team members demonstrated service and selflessness that made a real difference for Mrs. Lillie Smith.

While conducting an inspection, Inspector Eric Carter met Mrs. Smith and referred her to Neighborhood Code Representative (NCR) Olga Sauceda for additional support. NCR Sauceda learned that Mrs. Smith had fallen while using a two-wheel walker she had purchased from a homeless person.

Determined to help, NCR Sauceda reached out to community partners and secured a donation from Buckner Children & Family Services of North Texas.

On September 24, 2025, Inspector Carter and NCR Sauceda personally delivered a brand-new four-wheel walker to Mrs. Smith—along with a bottle of Dr. Pepper Zero, her favorite treat.

Mrs. Smith expressed deep gratitude not only for the new walker but also for the care and kindness shown when staff returned to check on her.

Code Compliance Services goes beyond enforcement to engage with residents and provide meaningful assistance.

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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at Anita Martinez Recreation Center

Neighborhood Code Representative Patrick Parker joined our wonderful seniors at the Anita Martinez Recreation Center this week to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! We’re grateful to the amazing staff for providing great music and food — and for giving us the opportunity to share resources with the community. 

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Welcoming Dallas: Housing Orientation  

in alliance with the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) and the Fair Housing Division.

The City of Dallas, in partnership with USCRI, is proud to highlight the Community Ambassador Program as part of the Welcoming Dallas initiative. This series helps ensure that all residents are aware of the essential services the City provides.

Our very own Amy Del Toro, together with Senior Code Inspectors from Code Compliance Services, presented on the department’s commitment to promoting fair housing, safe living conditions, and stronger neighborhoods where residents feel safe and supported.

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Community Clean Trash-Offs 

Our last trash-off at W.H. Adamson High School was a success!

We collected over 22,000 pounds of trash!

Be sure to check out our Facebook the morning of the next Community Clean Trash-off to get a sneak peek of the event and meet Code staff.

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South Dallas Cleanup with Dallas Police Department

The Dallas Police Department has been doing extraordinary work in partnership with Code Compliance.

More than 75 volunteers came together to clean up and revitalize areas across South Dallas, including Park Row Avenue, South Boulevard, Holmes Street, and Cleveland Street.

We are grateful for the effort and dedication that went into making our neighborhoods shine. Thank you to DPD for helping us Keep Dallas Beautiful!

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Ready Fest 2025 

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Service First, Now!

On September 17, 2025, Mr. Bashar Ammari, Business Manager for the Consumer Health Division, and Mrs. Mikhael Wilson, Food Protection Supervisor, received a Letter of Commendation from the Dallas City Council in recognition of their exceptional service.

The commendation stemmed from a heartfelt letter submitted by a Dallas resident following a dog bite incident on June 21. From the initial report to the case resolution, the resident described receiving exemplary service marked by professionalism, patience, and compassion.

While Dallas Animal Services took the lead in responding to the incident, Mr. Ammari and Ms. Wilson were also recognized for exceeding expectations in their support. They offered timely guidance, empathetic follow-up, and consistent communication that brought the resident added reassurance during a stressful time.

The City Council praised their contributions as a shining example of cross-departmental collaboration and customer-focused care. This recognition reinforces the City’s "Service First, Now" culture and highlights the caliber of employees who serve our communities each day.

We proudly commend Mr. Ammari and Ms. Wilson for their dedication to public service and for representing Code Compliance Services with distinction.

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From Concept to Curb

In a strong show of collaboration, the Nighttime Economy program teamed up with the Consumer Health Division and Dallas County Health and Human Services to host an engaging educational session at the South Dallas Cultural Center.

More than 40 mobile food unit operators attended the event to gain practical guidance on staying in compliance with the City of Dallas Temporary Event Food Establishment Permit.

Consumer Health staff shared expert tips on food safety standards, inspection readiness, and essential documentation such as commissary agreements and food manager certifications. Operators also learned how to prepare proper booth structures, maintain hot and cold product temperatures, and meet sanitation expectations.

The event fostered a supportive environment focused not on enforcement, but on partnership and proactive compliance.

Keep Dallas Beautiful! 

Use the link below to explore ways to volunteer with Love Your Block and other amazing initiatives making a difference in Dallas.

To volunteer with Keep Dallas Beautiful, visit our Linktree and click ‘Volunteer Sign Up’ to join activities and receive updates, or use the links below.

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Spotlight: Texas A&M Alumni Club

A huge shoutout to the Texas A&M Alumni Club, Cushman & Wakefield, and all the incredible volunteers who helped us kick off our 2025 Fall Sweep.

Want to be part of the action and make a real impact this season?

Join our Fall Sweep efforts and Keep Dallas Beautiful!

Sign up today on Idealist.org or Voly.org page and let’s make a difference together!

View the Adopt- A- Spot Dashboard 

Click the link below to view our Adopt-A- Spot Dashboard to select an area of Dallas that you would like to volunteer at. 

Check often as new locations are added to the map.

Grab some volunteers and help Keep Dallas Beautiful! 

Ongoing Initiatives 

Rec Shop Skate Shop is showing how to kickflip litter to the curb by keeping their entryway clean and supporting our Litter-Free Zone initiative.

Businesses like theirs set the standard for keeping Dallas looking sharp. Want to get on board?

Email ccscommunityoutreach@dallas.gov to learn how your business can help.

Community Hand Tool Program 

Does your non-profit organization or group need gardening tools to complete a beautification project?

Code Compliance can help by providing free access to our tools.

Email ccscommunityoutreach@dallas.gov for more information.

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Helping Hands Program: Sanitation

What is Helping Hands?

Helping Hands provides valet collection service at no additional cost for physically disabled or impaired residents who do not have an able-bodied person living at home with them. This service will allow Sanitation Crews to go on their property to relocate their roll carts to the point of service, service the roll cart, and place them back.

Requirements

• Must be a Dallas Sanitation customer
• Have a safe and accessible collection point
• No able-bodied household members to assist
• Helping Hands application signed by a physician
• Completed Declaration of Special Need form

Who is Affected by this Change? 

Click here to use the interactive map to check your address. 

More Information and How to Apply

Visit dsan.us/helpinghands or create a Helping Hands service request online through the Dallas Sanitation or Dallas 311 mobile app or by calling 3-1-1.

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DallasAlert Notification System: Office of Emergency Management & Crisis Response 

The City of Dallas is committed to the safety and well-being of our residents. DallasAlert is the City’s official emergency notification system, designed to keep residents and businesses informed during emergencies.

• Receive alerts by text message, voice call, or email
• Add multiple addresses (for example, home and work) to your profile
• Geo-targeted notifications ensure you receive alerts relevant to your area

DallasAlert is an opt-in system, so you must register to receive alerts.

Sign up today! 

Register here or text DALLAS to 67283

CODE IS POWERED BY YOU!

Explore career opportunities that empower you to make a difference! 

Visit often and apply early! 

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