The reasons for which a person may appeal are limited to a lack of proper notice or a review of evidence refuting the existence of the violation. Once an appeal has been made and accepted, a hearing is scheduled with an independent hearing officer. The City of San Diego maintains a pool of hearing officers specifically for these administrative appeals. Most hearing officers are attorneys with a background in land use or construction. Hearing notices are sent to all persons responsible for the violation with a copy to the hearing officer.
Testimony is heard from both sides.
If required the hearing officer may subpena witnesses, documents or other necessary evidence. The hearing officer will then close the hearing and issue and an administrative enforcement order within ten days. The administrative enforcement order may affirm, dismiss or modify the administrative notice issued by the City. No further administrative appeals are allowed. Appeals of administrative enforcement orders, however, may be made to the Superior Court of San Diego County.