Property Maintenance is Key in County Beautification Effort

DPIE is one of the agencies at the forefront of keeping Prince George’s County beautiful by enforcing property maintenance standards at residential, commercial and industrial properties.

DPIE’s focus on property maintenance aligns with the Beautification Initiative established by County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. The initiative brings together residents, the business community and visitors to decrease litter and increase individual responsibility in the anti-litter and County beautification efforts.

Property maintenance requirements were established to ensure that owners, managers and tenants keep residences, commercial and industrial buildings and grounds in good repair:

• Buildings must be in sound structural condition.

• Grounds must be well kept — grass must be cut, weeds pulled, trees and other vegetation trimmed.

• Properties must be kept free of trash and debris, including old vehicles, construction materials, discarded appliances, etc.

• Vehicles must be appropriately parked on paved surfaces.

• Parking lots at industrial and commercial properties must be well maintained and kept free of trash and debris.

“Keeping up communities by enforcing the County code is one of the most important things we do at DPIE,” said Enforcement Division Associate Director Val Cary. “The code provides a guide for residents and our business partners to keep neighborhoods clean and maintained.”

DPIE inspections of residential, commercial and industrial properties are conducted on an ongoing basis by inspectors working in assigned areas and as a result of complaints to 311. Failing to maintain property standards will result in a violation and possible fine. The County may abate violations and assess noncomplying property owners for the cost of repairs.

DPIE staffers also work to educate members of the public about County property maintenance standards by providing information on the agency’s website and speaking to homeowners and citizens' groups.

Report suspected code violations to 311, which will route the complaints to DPIE.

For additional information, visit the DPIE website. To schedule a DPIE staffer to address your group about property maintenance standards or other issues related to the agency, call 301-636-2053.