Gun Barrel City: Permits and Codes

Permits and Codes

Code Enforcement Department

You can reach the Gun Barrel City Code Enforcement Department by contacting us using any of the methods listed below:

Regular mail:
Gun Barrel City Hall
1810 W. Main St.
Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156

Phone: 903.887.1087
Fax: 903.887.6666
Our office hours are 8:00am - 5:00pm Monday through Friday

E-Mail:
Officer J. Callaway - jcallaway@gunbarrelcity.net
Officer J. Shoecraft - jshoecraft@gunbarrelcity.net

Click here to report a code violation. Click here to report a code violation.
Click here to view our city code of ordinances.

Code Enforcement Frequently Asked Questions

What is a code violation?
A code violation is a nuisance which can occur on private or public property that may cause a diminution of value to other property in the area, affecting lifestyles and possibly degrading the quality of life.

Here in Gun Barrel City our goal is to improve the quality of life by controlling nuisance violations and assisting our citizens with new ideas and resources to improve their quality of life through education and pride.

How do I report a code violation?
You can report a code violation 24 hours a day 7 days a week by emailing one of our Code Enforcement Officers or by calling Gun Barrel City Hall at 903.887.1087 for more personal attention.

Do I have to identify myself when reporting a violation?
No, however Code Enforcement may need to follow up or ask further questions about your complaint, so your information would be appreciated. All efforts will be made to keep your name anonymous. However, always remember that whatever you say is public record.

What are the more common violations reported?
- High grass and weeds
- Trash, junk and debris
- Inoperable/junk vehicles
- Mandatory trash service
- Sub-standard/unsafe buildings

Many other complaints are addressed by our Code Enforcement Department including health and safety and building issues. Feel free to contact one of the Officers if you are unsure of what the problem may be.

How long will it take to get my complaint resolved?
A Code Enforcement Officer will respond to a complaint within 72 hours after receiving it. Compliance times vary however, as most code violations are given a warning period such as 10 (ten) days for abatement. Frequently, when health or immediate safety is concerned, no warning period is given and citations may be issued or other agencies called in, such as Child Protective Services. If non-compliance persists, a certified letter of Code Violation is then mailed to the tenant and/or property owner. Every possible option is given to the violator to assist in rectifying the violation as abatement is the ultimate goal for the procedure.

I turned in a complaint six months ago and the violation is still there, why?
Frequently, code violators refuse to comply within the time frame required. Code Enforcement will then use the Court system by issuing citations or filing Formal Complaints with the Municipal or County Judge. This process is a little more lengthy, and may encompass a "per day fine." All violators are encouraged to settle the matter before involving a Judge as in most cases fine amounts may exceed the cost of abating the violation in the first place.

I want to clean-up my neighborhood, what can I do to help?
Contact our office. Let us help form a neighborhood group with assistance from Code Enforcement to keep Gun Barrel City beautiful. We can develop a strategy that will have a long term affect to the community beautification. Some examples are:

•	Working together with the various Property Owners Associations and Crime Watches
•	Adopt a Street Program
•	Illegal Dumping Ambassador Program for the kids
•	Report illegal dumping
•	Trash off - A city funded quarterly event to aid the citizens of Gun Barrel City with a facility to get rid of hard to remove unwanted and junk items such as old furniture.