Can't I Do Whatever I Want on My Property?

In a word, no. Your property rights are real and very important, but so are the property rights of your neighbors. If conditions on your property diminish the value of neighboring properties or infringe on others’ reasonable use and enjoyment of their property, you are infringing on their property rights. If conditions on your property or pose a hazard – from fire to rodent infestation to dangerous situations which attract children – then other rights might be infringed as well.

There is no nuisance law against painting your home a color which your neighbors find repulsive, for example. Nuisance laws protect property rights and promote public safety; they do not exist to promote or enforce beauty. 

Show All Answers

1. Who Is on the Committee?
2. What If I Want to Join the Committee?
3. What Is a Nuisance?
4. Where Can I Find the City’s Nuisance Laws?
5. How Do I Report a Nuisance?
6. What Happens When Nuisance is Reported?
7. Can't I Do Whatever I Want on My Property?
8. Does Nuisance Enforcement Really Reduce Crime in the City?
9. What If I Have More Questions or Want to Help?