Who should typically be designated as the owner of record in code enforcement?

The owner of record in code enforcement typically refers to the individual or entity that holds the legal title to the property as recorded in public records. This person or organization is responsible for complying with applicable regulations and addressing any violations that may arise.

Designating the principal violator as the owner of record is important because they possess the authority and responsibility for the property. They are accountable for ensuring that the property adheres to zoning laws, building codes, and other relevant regulations. In scenarios where violations are noted, it is essential to engage with the owner of record to facilitate remediation and enforce compliance effectively.

In contrast, a property manager, tenant, or real estate agent may have varying degrees of involvement with the property, but they do not hold the title to the property. A property manager may oversee day-to-day operations but does not bear ultimate responsibility for legal compliance unless explicitly outlined in a contract. Tenants occupy the property and are responsible for their conduct within it, but they do not own it. Real estate agents facilitate transactions but do not hold ownership or legal accountability for the property itself. Therefore, the principal violator is the appropriate designation for the owner of record in the context of code enforcement.