Nuisance Inspections
for Residential and Commercial Facilities
Jefferson County General Health District Offers Nuisance Inspections
Per Ohio Revised Code 3707.01 and 3735, the Jefferson County General Health District is responsible for investigating and abating any public health nuisances in Jefferson County.
What is a Public Health Nuisance?
Situations with the likelihood of causing disease or injury may be declared a public health nuisance by JCGHD. The enforcement ability of public health is limited to conditions which threaten the public health. A condition may certainly be a nuisance to you, but it may not be a public health nuisance. Examples of public health nuisances include open dumping of garbage, sewage issues, insect/vermin complaints, food service complaints and the improper storage of waste tires. In order for this department to investigate a complaint, a complaint form must be filled out, signed, and submitted to the Environmental Health Division. Some complaints may be referred to other local/state agencies with authority or resources to conduct the investigation.
JCGHD does not have the authority or ability to investigate the following conditions:
Tall grass, poison ivy, or overgrown properties
Abandoned vehicles and metal junk yards
Removal of abandoned trailers
Violation of city, townships, village or county zoning regulations
Drainage issues not caused by a sewage treatment system
Animal issues involving noise or number of animals
Hotels and motels
Suspected drug houses
Any domestic disputes between neighbors or family members
In order for us to investigate we must receive an official complaint from a citizen. To file a complaint, please call the JCGHD at (740) 283-8530 or contact us online.
Please note that complaints are part of the public record; the health department cannot guarantee confidentiality.
View the following resources regarding nuisances at your convenience:
Ohio Code Chapter 3707: Board of Health
Ohio Code 3707.01: Powers of Board – abatement of nuisances
Ohio Code 3735.31: Metropolitan housing authority – powers and duties.
