I need to know what to do about a Chapter 7 in which I gave back the house but the city is going after me for code violations?
You are technically responsible for the code violations until the title to the house transfers, either to the lender or a third party.Since you were unaware of the violations, I assume that the city was never informed of the bankruptcy.  Technically, you can not discharge civil or criminal penalties.  However, in my practice, I have found that be sending notice of the bankruptcy to the city will cease collection efforts.  Whether it helps your credit report is a different matter.The fact that you are out of state and no longer residing there is irrelevant.