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Welcome to
The Code Compliance Connection!
November 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.
In this edition you will find the following:
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Code Compliance Services is raising the bar from good to great — focusing on innovation, operational excellence, and investing in its people.
In our recent Director's Message interview, Assistant Director Cedric Secoudiata shared how the department’s work touches every Dallas resident, from the food we eat to the neighborhoods we call home.
He also highlighted the success of the new IPMC Code Academy, a training initiative that equips inspectors with tools for success and strengthens service delivery citywide.
Click here to view this edition of our Director's Message.
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November 1
Branching Out: Volunteer Tree Planting Events
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.
Check out the flyer below for tree planting dates throughout November.
9:00 a.m.
November 6
Empowered to Protect: Smart Choices Against Fraud and Scams
This free educational event is designed to help older adults recognize and avoid common scams and fraud schemes.
Pleasant Oaks Recreation Center
8701 Greenmound Ave, Dallas, TX 75227
10:00 a.m. - noon
November 11
Veterans Day
Code Compliance Services will be closed on November 11 in observance of Veterans Day.
We will resume normal business hours on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
For more City of Dallas department closures click here.
November 14
The 2025 Aging & Housing Summit
A citywide event focused on housing stability, resources, and empowerment for older adults, caregivers, and professionals.
Winfrey Point
950 E Lawther Dr, Dallas, TX 75218
9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
November 18
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. It reflects our ongoing efforts to educate and equip volunteers engaged in charitable street feeding, to promote 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: https://forms.office.com/g/8dtFtX3aub .
November 20
Required: Scrap Tire Training (STEP)
In-person
7780 Harry Hines Blvd.
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
November 22
Community Clean Trash- Off:
Mitchell Elementary School
4223 Briargrove Ln.
Dallas, TX 75287
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.
November 27
Thanksgiving Day
Code Compliance Services will be closed November 27 and November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving Day.
We will resume normal business hours on Monday, November 30, 2025.
For more City of Dallas department closures click here.
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Sharing Knowledge Across Cities:
Brownsville’s Luis Saucedo Joins Code Compliance for a Professional Exchange Strengthening City Partnerships
The Consumer Health and Specialty Groups had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Luis Saucedo, City of Brownsville this week as part of his professional visit to the City of Dallas.
During his time with the division, Mr. Saucedo had the opportunity to observe a live restaurant inspection at McDonald’s, where the establishment earned an impressive inspection score of 97.
Now Available: Self-Service Kiosk for Permits and Payments
We are making it easier for customers to take care of business quickly and conveniently.
The new Self-Service Kiosk allows customers to:
- Make payments on existing accounts.
- Apply for permits, including Temporary Food, Farmers Market, Kiosk, and Self-Service Market Permits.
- Request copies of active permits or inspection reports.
This new feature helps streamline permitting operations, reduce wait times, and improve the overall customer experience by providing fast, reliable service right at your fingertips.
Gambusia “Livewell” Habitat Helps Keep Dallas Neighborhoods Mosquito-Free
The City of Dallas Consumer Health Division has launched an innovative Gambusia Livewell Breeding Habitat designed to protect neighborhoods from mosquito-borne illnesses and improve community well-being.
The project uses Gambusia affinis, a small native fish that feeds on mosquito larvae, to help reduce breeding in vacant or abandoned residential swimming pools that can become a nuisance and potential health risk for nearby residents.
This proactive initiative was developed and implemented in-house by the Mosquito Surveillance and Abatement Team at a cost of less than $200, demonstrating the City’s commitment to cost-effective, science-based public health solutions. By using fish instead of chemical treatments, this program promotes a safer, greener, and more balanced approach to public health protection.
The Gambusia Livewell Habitat reflects the City’s continued commitment to keeping communities safe, healthy, and informed through practical solutions that make a measurable difference in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases.
Building Excellence Through Education: IPMC Code Academy
Code Compliance Services successfully wrapped up its inaugural IPMC Code Academy, a 12-week training initiative designed to prepare inspectors for the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) certification exam.
The program was led by a dedicated faculty of five instructors who generously shared their time and expertise, guiding colleagues through the material and setting a strong foundation for professional growth.
In recognition of their outstanding service and commitment, Certificates of Appreciation was presented to faculty members Assistant Director Cedric Secoundiata, Renee Paramo, Rosana Savcic, Narada Lee, and Ariel Garcia.
Their leadership, knowledge, and dedication have been vital to the success of this important initiative and demonstrate Code Compliance Services’ commitment to building excellence through education.
Pink for a Purpose with Code!
In October, the City of Dallas Code Compliance Services joined the fight against breast cancer by participating in “Pink for a Purpose with Code.”
Throughout the month, Code Compliance staff proudly wore pink ribbons each Friday to raise awareness and show support for those affected by breast cancer.
The initiative brought together team members across the department in a shared commitment to promote hope, strength, and early detection.
Together, we stand with survivors, honor those we’ve lost, and continue to raise awareness in our community. 💗
 Members of the Northeast (NE) District showing their Support for the 'Pink with a Purpose with Code' initiative.
Public Health in Action
at the 2025 State Fair of Texas
For 24 consecutive days, the City of Dallas Code Compliance Consumer Health Division worked behind the scenes to protect the health and safety of more than 2 million visitors attending the State Fair of Texas.
From opening day to closing night, our team ensured that every bite, from the iconic turkey leg to the golden corn dog, was served safely and in compliance with local and state health regulations.
Senior Sanitarian Ernesto Mendoza helped kick off the Fair by giving NBC 5 viewers an exclusive look into how our inspectors safeguard public health through rigorous food safety checks and vendor education.
Our 2025 State Fair Impact:
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Total Inspections Conducted: 922
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Foodborne Illness Outbreaks: 0
The dedication of the Code Compliance Team ensured that vendors met the highest standards of cleanliness, temperature control, and food handling. Their hard work allowed millions of guests to enjoy their favorite Fair treats safely and confidently.
This effort reflects Code Compliance’s unwavering commitment to service, safety, and public trust. It also demonstrates the City’s core values of Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity in action.
As Big Tex would say,“We’ll see y’all next year!”
Until next time, Dallas!
The FOUR D's:
Dress. Deet. Drain. Dusk to Dawn.
Remember the Four Ds:
DRAIN
Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace. Standing water can be found in swimming pools that are not kept clean, ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters.
DUSK/DAWN
Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
DRESS
Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
DEET All Day, Every Day
Whenever you're outside, use insect repellents that contain DEET or other EPA approved repellents and follow instructions.
We Want to Hear From YOU!
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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.
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Take a look back at all of the work and engagement that has happened over the past month with our various Code Compliance Divisions!
National Night Out 2025
On Tuesday, October 7, the Department of Code Compliance proudly participated in National Night Out (NNO), an annual event that strengthens connections between residents, neighborhood organizations, and local agencies.
NNO provides a meaningful opportunity for our teams to connect, collaborate, and communicate with key stakeholders and community partners. Our staff takes pride in showing up—not only to educate residents about local codes but also to build relationships, share in community fellowship, and offer a friendly hello.
This year, our Neighborhood Code and Community Prosecution (CP) teams represented Code Compliance at 64 events across the city, helping make this year’s celebration a true community success.
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Veterans' Recognition Luncheon
A last month's Veterans Luncheon, Mr. Leon Alexander, a 101-year-old World War II Veteran, was recognized for his remarkable service and dedication.
The Code Compliance Services team was proud to participate in this special event, showing support for our veterans and reaffirming our commitment to serving all Dallas residents with care and respect.
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Re:Imagine Vacancy
Rilla Avenue Beautification Project
Last month, we celebrated the unveiling of the Re: Imagine Vacancy – Rilla Avenue Beautification Project in Pleasant Grove!
This exciting event featured food, live music, and a special appearance by District 5 Council Member Jamie Resendez.
The project was a true community effort, made possible through a collaboration with Dallas Park and Recreation and the Office of Arts and Culture.
The Rilla Beautification Project is located at 7711 Rilla Ave., Dallas, TX 75217.
 
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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.
Tree Planting at Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center with AT&T
Partnering for a Greener Dallas!
AT&T, along with Park and Recreation and Code Compliance Services, came together for a tree planting and beautification project at the MLK Jr. Community Center. Together, we planted over 20 trees to help make our community greener and more vibrant!
 
As our Love Your Block Grant winners complete their projects, we want to highlight the incredible work already happening in our community.
We are so proud of everyone and their dedication to making our neighborhoods stronger and more vibrant.
We look forward to showcasing more projects and to opening the grant cycle for next year.
Project Title: Transitioning Triangles
Project Type: Beautification
Wynnewood North Neighborhood Association
The Wynnewood North Triangle Beautification Project enhances the charm and livability of the neighborhood by transforming the well-kept green spaces—known as the “triangles”—into vibrant, welcoming areas for residents and visitors to enjoy. Each triangle now features colorful, drought-tolerant, and environmentally friendly native plants that not only beautify the area but also support local wildlife and promote sustainability.
Benches have been added to provide comfortable spaces for walkers and neighbors to rest, relax, and connect. The Monssen Triangle also features a registered Little Free Library, inviting residents to sit, read, and enjoy a peaceful moment in the community.
Project funds were used to install new landscape lighting and to replace outdated or non-native vegetation, ensuring that these shared spaces remain safe, attractive, and easy to maintain. Together, these improvements showcase the pride of the Wynnewood North Neighborhood Association and add lasting value to the community.
 Pictured above: Cynthia Michaels (left) and Marilyn Jolly (right) with the Wynnewood North Neighborhood Association.
Project Title: Sunny South Community Garden
Project Type: Beautification
Sunny South Community Garden
The Sunny South Community Garden is a nonprofit in Fair Park that promotes civic beautification, conservation, and hands-on learning about sustainable food and healthy living.
This community-led project gives residents ownership and access to a shared garden where children and adults can learn how food grows, why fruits and vegetables matter, and how to make healthier lifestyle choices.
By creating opportunities to garden, connect, and share knowledge, the project builds community spirit and addresses local food insecurity in an area historically identified as a food desert. Recent improvements include new raised garden beds, sheet mulching to reduce weeds, and plans for a new pathway and signage to enhance accessibility.
Together, these efforts are helping grow resilience—and a healthier, more connected South Dallas.
 Pictured above: Sharon Steele and associates with Assistant Director Cedric Secoundiata and Assistant Director Christylla Miles.
Project Title: Joppy Mama Farms
Project Type: Beautification
Joppy Mama Farms
Joppy Mommas Farm is constructing additional raised garden beds to expand growing capacity and strengthen community programs. The new beds will allow the farm to produce more fresh fruits and vegetables for local families, support hands-on educational activities, and improve soil drainage and accessibility for volunteers of all ages.
These improvements help promote food security, sustainable agriculture, and healthy living throughout the community.
 Pictured above: Kim High with associate at Joppy Mama Farms.
Volunteer Spotlight: Hensley Industries
A Special Thank You to Hensley Industries!
This past month, Hensley Industries participated in the Crown Park Clean-Up on October 15, 2025. Thirteen employees helped collect 25 bags of trash, totaling 140 pounds of trash removed.
Dedication like this helps keep our parks clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. Thank you for making a positive impact in our community! 💚🌎
Salesforce Adopt-A-Spot Unveiling
Salesforce - CIO Dallas has adopted the Oak Lawn Branch Library through the Adopt - A- Spot Program.
Over 70 Salesforce employees came out to clean the Oak Lawn area and picked up 430 pounds of trash!
They have committed to quarterly clean-ups and look forward to participating in more ways to keep Dallas clean. We are thankful for their dedication in keeping this area and Dallas beautiful.
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!
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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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CODE IS POWERED BY YOU!
Explore career opportunities that empower you to make a difference!
Visit often and apply early!
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