Code Enforcement in Calcasieu Parish

Note: This is the first in a series on code enforcement in Calcasieu Parish. This article covers the basics, such as what may be subject to code enforcement and how citizens can request support from the parish. Other articles will cover more specific topics, such as individual categories of the Calcasieu Parish Code of Ordinances. For more information, visit the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury’s code enforcement website.

Everyone wants to live in a nice area. We all seek good neighbors and clean communities. And the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury’s code enforcement office helps residents across the parish pursue that in their neighborhoods. So how can we help you? Read on for more information!

What is Code Enforcement?

It’s important to note that code enforcement is not law enforcement. Law enforcement does sometimes get involved, such as in issues of minor curfews, loitering, unauthorized entry into parish facilities or other relevant concerns, but their presence is on a case-by-case basis.

The Calcasieu Parish Office of Code Enforcement, which is part of the Calcasieu Parish division of Planning & Development, generally focuses on zoning issues, property standards and permits. They may also get involved in issues that relate to failure to adhere to building codes or other property restrictions, such as drainage concerns.

Ultimately, code enforcement helps with specific concerns as laid out in the parish code of ordinances. Click here to access the complete code of ordinances in a searchable format.

Note: Properties within the limits of a city are subject to that city’s code of ordinances. The above-linked information applies to unincorporated areas of Calcasieu Parish.

How can Code Enforcement help?

The Calcasieu Parish Office of Code Enforcement helps with, primarily, issues related to property standards, including zoning, permitting and overall appearances. Some more specific examples may include:

• Overgrown grass and weeds 

• Trash and debris (especially if allowed to accumulate long-term on public walkways or outside a closed container)

• Junked/abandoned vehicles

• Activity governed by zoning or permit laws, such as:

  • Alcohol (which may not be sold within 300 feet of a church, school, library or playground)

  • A commercial entity in an area zoned residential 

  • Buildings not in compliance with existing neighborhood requirements, such as individual lot buffer zones or drainage

  • Permits for work like electrical or plumbing

  • Subdivision development 

• Animal-related concerns, such as dangerous animals or those abandoned/neglected by their owners

• Condemnation of abandoned/unsafe buildings

  
  
  
  

There are many more topics covered by the Calcasieu Parish code of ordinances. To find out if your concern falls within the code enforcement office’s purview, click here and search the code for any topic.

Is there anything Code Enforcement can't do?

Code enforcement is not an emergency response organization. If you or a loved one is in danger or requires immediate assistance, please call 911. 

Additionally, the code enforcement office does not typically get involved in private legal matters or something like homeowner association covenants. If it isn’t specifically addressed in the code, it’s likely not something they can enforce. If you’d like the parish to consider updating the code, contact me! I’d be glad to hear your concerns.

How do I contact Code Enforcement?

The Calcasieu Parish Office of Code Enforcement is located at:

901 Lakeshore Dr., 5th Floor

Lake Charles, LA 70601

The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on major holidays and when parish offices are otherwise closed. 

If you’re not sure if the code enforcement office can get involved, just ask! You may also contact the office if you have a concern and would like the office to follow up. Any one of the below options is a good way to get in touch. 

1. Call 337-721-3625.

2. Fill out the online Citizen Complaint Form and email it to planning@calcasieu.gov. 

3. Print the Citizen Complaint Form, fill it out and mail it to:

Calcasieu Parish Police Jury

Code Enforcement Division

P.O. Box 3287

Lake Charles, LA 70602

In this ongoing series, I’ll address more specific sections of the Calcasieu Parish Code of Ordinances. Have specific questions or topics you’d like to see covered? Let me know!