5 Effective Strategies for Public Agencies to Ensure Local Laws Comply with State & Federal Laws

Cities and counties have seen numerous changes in State and Federal laws over the last several years that require changes at the local level to comply, including both general law and charter cities, and specifically, in the areas of code enforcement, housing, homelessness, sidewalk vending, due process, and appeals.

For local public agencies, keeping track and maintaining their own laws, practices and procedures in compliance with these changes can be a daunting task. Ignoring these updates and maintaining compliance can lead to significant legal risk and costs, in addition to less-effective code enforcement.

As public agency code enforcement attorneys, we regularly assist clients with ensuring manageable, effective, and compliant ordinances, policies and procedures. Here are five strategies to help cities, counties, and other public agencies come into, and consistently maintain, compliance with ever-changing laws.

Being aware of the latest updates in legislation and case law is vital for local agencies. Laws can and do change frequently. Staying informed ensures that your agency knows what changes need to be made to remain compliant. Regularly review state and local government websites, subscribe to legal updates – like Civica Law’s monthly newsletter – and participate in webinars, like TruCode Academy.

At Civica Law, we believe education is key to staying in compliance – that’s why our clients personally receive updates from our municipal law attorneys when changes in affect their ordinances, policies, and/or procedures. Keeping up on these changes not only prevent non-compliance but also exemplifies to a public agency’s taxpayers as a proactive public agency that effectively enforces its ordinances while mitigating or avoiding legal risk.

Once the new or updated legal requirements (and its nuances) are analyzed, public agencies need to determine the following:

1. Which changes are required and optional, and/or desired (if optional)
2. Make updates to their local codes, policies, and/or procedures that are as consistent as possible with the public agency’s goals and existing laws, policies, and procedures
3. Create new laws, polices, and procedures if needed to comply and allow successful implementation

Training is an essential component of compliance. Local agency staff should be trained regularly on the latest laws and regulations, as well as updates to any policies or procedures. Training programs should be comprehensive and regularly repeated, especially when new staff come on board. By ensuring that all staff understand the compliance requirements, agencies can create a culture of accountability and diligence, while mitigating risk.

At Civica Law, we believe education is the most effective way to reach compliance, which is why we offer an array of monthly code enforcement trainings, with continuing education credits (CEUs) to keep local government informed, effective, and compliant. Learn more about our education program, TruCode Academy.

Leveraging technology can streamline compliance processes. Tools such as compliance management software and mobile applications can help monitor adherence to regulations. For instance, drone regulation can be efficiently managed using specialized software that tracks and reports drone usage. Technology not only aids in real-time monitoring but also simplifies the reporting processes, making it easier for agencies to demonstrate compliance.

Being one of the first municipal law firms in the United States that assist cities and counties in drafting drone policies and regulations, we understand the intricacies surrounding drone law and how it benefits public agencies with their code enforcement efforts. Lauren Brown and Natalie Sahagún are leading the way for public agencies in implementing and updating drone regulations and policies in their jurisdictions.

Engaging with legal experts, like ours at Civica Law, can provide invaluable support and result in significantly reducing risk and associated costs. Our municipal law firm assists agency staff on ordinances, policies, and procedures that align with current laws. We also offer insights into best practices for compliance and help navigate complex law. Having a reliable legal partner ensures that public agencies are not only compliant, but are also well-prepared for any legal challenges, and avoiding them where possible.

Civica Law offers personalized legal support to public agencies, including assisting with ordinances, policies, and procedures that meet the latest legal requirements. Our attorneys provide expertise in municipal law, ensuring that your agency remains compliant and effective.

Maintaining compliance with ever-changing State and Federal law is a critical responsibility for local agencies. By staying informed, strategic updates, implementing robust training, utilizing technology, and engaging with legal experts, local agencies can ensure they meet their compliance obligations effectively. Contact Civica Law to ensure your local ordinances, policies and procedures come into and maintain compliance with changes in the law.

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Legal Disclaimer: This blog provides updates and insight on current municipal-related law and is not intended as legal advice. For more information on how Civica Law can support your code enforcement needs, contact us today.