Citations are typically issued for signs without permits, minor storage violations, or minor building or housing code violations. The citations are issued sequentially, first a warning is issued threatening a fine for non-compliance. The citations are similar to parking citations and do not go to court. They are appealable to an administrative hearing officer who may affirm, waive, or conditionally reduce the amount of fine. The advantages of administrative citations are similar to those gained using civil penalties.
Most people comply after receiving the first citation.
In addition, citations bring in revenue. The City of San Diego issues approximately 1000 administrative citation warnings per year and about 350 monetary citations. The disadvantages are also the same as in a civil penalty action. If a person fails to comply or pay, another remedy must be chosen and cost recovery must be initiated. In minor cases the City may elect to close a case after recording a copy of the notice of violation with the County Recorder's Office.