Garbage & Debris

Where do I call to report accumulation of garbage and trash?

The person to contact depends on where trash, garbage or debris is located. If it on the Town right-of-way or in the street, call the Department of Public Works (301) 927-1452.  If trash is on private property, it is the responsibility of the owner to remove it. Code Enforcement will inspect private property when it receives such complaints.

Is it legal to dump liquids or to sweep debris into the gutters and/or streets?

No.  It is illegal to dump, sweep or deposit in anyway, liter, garbage, liquid waste or rubbish into any street, alley or onto other public property within the town.

Is there an ordinance against putting signs on Town rights-of-ways?

The only signs allowed on Town rights-of-ways are official regulatory signs. All others are considered trash and may be removed and disposed of by a Code Enforcement Officer.

I purchased a new appliance and want to put the old one at the curb site to have it hauled away.

You should call the Public Works Department (301) 927-1452 to determine if they will remove this type of discarded materials before you place it at the curb. Such items can also be taken to the landfill.

A lot in my neighborhood becomes overgrown with tall weeds.  Is there a way to make the owner mow the lot?

Town ordinance makes it illegal to permit grass or weeds to grow more then nine inches tall excluding seed pods. Individuals should contact Code Enforcement and provide information on the property. An officer will inspect the property and contact the owner. The owner is given notice to have the property mowed.  However, if the owner cannot be located or does not mow the property, the Town will mow or clean the property at a predetermined cost. The Town will invoice the owner of record for the work done plus administrative costs and the cost of abatement will be added to the property tax bill.

A house in my area has cars parked around it. Is this legal?

If any of the vehicles are dismantled or incapable of being moved under their own power, they are considered inoperable vehicles and are not allowed to be parked on streets or private property unless garaged. Owners of illegally parked vehicles can be made to remove them within a specified time period.  If the owner fails to remove junk vehicles, a citation can be issued and the vehicles removed by the Town.

What kind of animals are prohibited in residential areas?

It is unlawful to keep horses, cattle, mules, donkeys, sheep, goats, swine, pigeons or fowl in residential areas.

Need More Time to Correct Violation?

I have received a notice from the Town Code Enforcement Officer for violating one of the Town ordinances. I don’t feel I was given enough time to correct the problem. What should I do?

Call (301) 927-0330, E-mail code@bladensburgmd.gov or visit the Code Enforcement Department at  4217 Edmonston Road, Bladensburg, Maryland 20710, before the deadline has expired and discuss the circumstances with the Code Enforcement Officer. Based upon the circumstances, the deadline may be extended.

Who enforces deed restrictions?

Code Enforcement enforces Town Ordinances only. For deed restriction violations, it is suggested that you contact your civic association or homeowner’s association.

When is a building permit required?

Residential and commercial property owners are required to obtain both a Prince George’s County and a Town of Bladensburg building permit for any major home or business improvements to their property. A Bladensburg Building permit must be issued prior to construction.