Reference packet · Printable
Response Cards
One full-page card per common neighborhood problem. Each card lists who to call first, who to also contact, who may help, who to hire only if needed — and the bold differentiator, who is NOT usually responsible.
≈4 min readPrint-worthy
Screen view of any single card lives in the Community Response Directory. This is the printable binder version.
Before They Build
Response Cards
A Neighborhood Action Guide
Reference packet · Civic Handbook · Vol. I
Vol. I · Edition One · Generated June 19, 2026 · Private to this device · Not legal advice.
© 2026 Before They Build™. All rights reserved. Educational re-use permitted; see beforetheybuild.com/permissions.
Water quality & supply
Drinking water, surface water, contamination, discharges.
Most day-to-day water complaints are handled by the state. Federal escalation if the state will not act.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- State Environmental AgencyDay-to-day water permits and complaints.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- EPAFederal standards and Superfund.
- Public WorksMunicipal drinking water and sewer.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Waterkeeper AllianceLocal Waterkeeper organizations patrol waterways.
- American RiversNGO · National · Professional
- River NetworkHelps local watershed groups organize.
- EPA ECHO — Enforcement & ComplianceFederal compliance history for the facility.
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- Planning DepartmentDoes not test or enforce water quality.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Air quality
Emissions, odours, dust, smoke.
Smell, dust, smoke — the state runs the air program; EPA only steps in for federal issues.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- State Environmental AgencyAir permits and complaints.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- EPAFederal air standards and oversight.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- EarthjusticeNGO · National · Legal
- EPA ECHO — Enforcement & ComplianceInformation source · National
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- Code EnforcementGenerally not air-quality jurisdiction.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Wildlife
Animals, habitat, hunting, nuisance wildlife.
Most wildlife is state-managed. Federal listing only applies to endangered or threatened species.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- State Wildlife AgencyMost wildlife is state-managed.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- USFWSFederally listed endangered species only.
- USDA-WSDamage management.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- National Wildlife FederationNGO · National · Professional
- National Audubon SocietyIf birds or nesting are involved.
- Land Trust AllianceIf habitat sits under an easement.
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Wetland scientistWhen wildlife concerns overlap with wetlands.
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- EPAFederal agency
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Wetlands
Marshes, swamps, bogs, vernal pools, wetland fills.
Federal and state agencies share jurisdiction. Photograph the site immediately — wetland evidence can be erased in a day.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- USACEIssues the federal Section 404 permit to fill wetlands.
- State Environmental AgencyState water-quality certification and state wetland permits.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- EPAFederal oversight of the 404 program; can audit Corps decisions.
- Public WorksLocal stormwater and drainage in the same watershed.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Waterkeeper AllianceLocal Waterkeeper organizations patrol and document waterways.
- American RiversNational advocacy on federal water decisions.
- Land Trust AllianceFind a local land trust that may hold a nearby easement.
- Southern Environmental Law CenterPublic-interest legal help in the Southeast.
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Wetland scientistIndependent delineation when a developer's claims look wrong.
- Environmental consultantBroader site assessment including soils and hydrology.
- Land-use attorneyPermit appeals or enforcement actions.
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- Code EnforcementCannot waive or grant federal wetland permits.
- Planning DepartmentLocal planning cannot override Section 404.
- USFWSEndangered species only — not wetland fill in general.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Noise
Construction noise, ongoing operational noise, late-night noise.
Note times, dates, and the source. A noise ordinance you can cite is worth ten calls without one.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Code EnforcementLocal noise ordinances are enforced here.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentPermit conditions may already cap construction hours.
- State Environmental AgencySome states regulate operational noise from facilities.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Smart Growth AmericaPolicy research on construction-impact mitigation.
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Acoustical consultantWhen a measurement is needed to support a complaint.
- Land-use attorneyPersistent violations after enforcement has failed.
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- EPAEPA does not enforce general noise (except certain federal sources).
- USFWSNot a wildlife matter unless protected species are documented.
- State Wildlife AgencyNot a wildlife matter unless protected species are documented.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Traffic & roads
New driveways, traffic studies, road safety.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Public WorksLocal streets and driveways.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- DOTState highways and access permits.
- Planning DepartmentReviews traffic studies for new projects.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Planning agendas & minutesInformation source · Local
- Meeting video archiveInformation source · Local
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Traffic engineerProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Easements
Utility, access, conservation, pipeline, transmission easements.
Easements are private legal instruments. The county recorder has the actual document.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
— none for this topic.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentCan show recorded easements on the GIS map.
- FERCInterstate gas pipeline easements via certificate orders.
- PUC / PSCUtility-line siting.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Land Trust AllianceNGO · National · Professional
- Lincoln Institute of Land PolicyNGO · National · Research
- County GIS / parcel viewerMany easements are mapped.
- State public-records portalInformation source · State
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Land-use attorneyBefore signing anything.
- Licensed land surveyorProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- Code EnforcementEasement disputes are civil, not code.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Property rights
Deeds, surveys, boundary disputes, recorded restrictions.
Boundary and title disputes are civil — not government enforcement. Verify the record first.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
— none for this topic.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentHas recorded plats and zoning history.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- County GIS / parcel viewerInformation source · County
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Licensed land surveyorProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
- Licensed real-estate appraiserProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- Code EnforcementBoundary disputes are civil.
- EPAFederal agency
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Zoning
What is allowed on a parcel today.
Zoning is what is allowed today. Read the staff report and the ordinance before calling.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Planning DepartmentMunicipal agency
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Zoning Board (Board of Adjustment)Variances and appeals.
- Code EnforcementEnforcement after the fact.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Smart Growth AmericaNGO · National · Research
- Lincoln Institute of Land PolicyNGO · National · Research
- Planning agendas & minutesInformation source · Local
- County GIS / parcel viewerInformation source · County
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- AICP-certified plannerProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Rezoning
Changing what is allowed on a parcel.
Rezoning is a political decision dressed as a technical one. The hearing is where it is made or unmade.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Planning DepartmentMunicipal agency
- City CouncilFinal vote in cities.
- County CommissionFinal vote in unincorporated areas.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
— none for this topic.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Smart Growth AmericaNGO · National · Research
- Lincoln Institute of Land PolicyNGO · National · Research
- Planning agendas & minutesInformation source · Local
- Meeting video archiveInformation source · Local
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- AICP-certified plannerProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
- Traffic engineerIf the rezoning hinges on a traffic study.
- Licensed real-estate appraiserFor documented value impact.
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- Zoning Board (Board of Adjustment)Hears variances, not rezonings.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Construction
Active building, demolition, grading, site work.
If you can take a photo with a time stamp, do it now. Permits and conditions are public records.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Code EnforcementUnpermitted or violating work.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentSite plan compliance.
- Public WorksRight-of-way and grading.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Local permit search portalInformation source · Local
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Civil engineer (P.E.)Professional discipline
- Acoustical consultantProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Code violations
Property maintenance, nuisance, unpermitted work.
Code enforcement is reactive. Document, file, and follow up — quietly persistent works.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Code EnforcementMunicipal agency
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentMunicipal agency
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Local permit search portalInformation source · Local
- State public-records portalInformation source · State
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Historic preservation
Historic buildings, districts, demolition review.
Federal Section 106 review applies whenever federal money or permits are involved.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- SHPOSection 106 and National Register.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentLocal landmark designations.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- National Trust for Historic PreservationNGO · National · Professional
- Planning agendas & minutesInformation source · Local
- Meeting video archiveInformation source · Local
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- AICP-certified plannerProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Utility corridors
Linear easements for power, gas, water, fiber.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- PUC / PSCState agency
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- FERCInterstate gas and electric transmission.
- Planning DepartmentMunicipal agency
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- EarthjusticeNGO · National · Legal
- County GIS / parcel viewerInformation source · County
- FCC Antenna Structure RegistrationFor wireless or telecom structures in the corridor.
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
- Licensed land surveyorProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Pipelines
Natural gas, oil, hazardous liquid pipelines.
Interstate gas is federal (FERC). Intrastate and safety are split. Get the docket number early.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- FERCInterstate natural gas permits.
- PHMSAPipeline safety.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- PUC / PSCIntrastate pipelines in many states.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- EarthjusticeNGO · National · Legal
- Southern Environmental Law CenterSoutheast only.
- EPA ECHO — Enforcement & ComplianceInformation source · National
- State public-records portalInformation source · State
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Power lines
Transmission and distribution electric lines.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- PUC / PSCMost siting decisions.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- FERCInterstate high-voltage transmission.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- EarthjusticeNGO · National · Legal
- State public-records portalInformation source · State
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Cell towers
Wireless towers and antennas.
Federal law (the Telecom Act) sharply limits what local zoning can deny. Know the rules before the hearing.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Planning DepartmentLocal zoning for placement.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- FCCFederal licensing.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- FCC Antenna Structure RegistrationInformation source · National
- Planning agendas & minutesInformation source · Local
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Land-use attorneyProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Stormwater
Runoff, retention, drainage from developed sites.
Most stormwater issues are local plus state construction permits. FEMA maps are the baseline.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Public WorksMunicipal agency
- State Environmental AgencyConstruction stormwater permits.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- EPAFederal agency
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Waterkeeper AllianceNGO · National · Grassroots
- American RiversNGO · National · Professional
- River NetworkNGO · National · Research
- Local permit search portalInformation source · Local
- FEMA Flood Map Service CenterInformation source · National
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Civil engineer (P.E.)Professional discipline
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Flooding
Floodplains, repetitive flooding, FEMA maps.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Public WorksLocal drainage and floodplain management.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- USACELevees and flood-control works.
- NOAAForecasting.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- American RiversNGO · National · Professional
- FEMA Flood Map Service CenterInformation source · National
- County GIS / parcel viewerInformation source · County
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Civil engineer (P.E.)Professional discipline
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Trees
Tree removal, protection, street trees.
Most tree authority is local. Identify the species and the ordinance before calling — the conversation goes much faster.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- Code EnforcementEnforces local tree-protection ordinances.
- Public WorksOwns street trees in the right-of-way.
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- Planning DepartmentReviews tree-protection conditions on site plans.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Arbor Day FoundationTree City USA standards and urban-canopy resources.
- National Audubon SocietyIf habitat or nesting birds are involved.
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- ISA-certified arboristIndependent assessment of tree health, value, and protection.
- Land-use attorneyIf removal violates a recorded conservation restriction.
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
- EPAEPA does not regulate tree removal.
- State Wildlife AgencyTrees are not wildlife unless they harbor protected species.
- USFWSFederal listing only — not routine tree removal.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Environmental complaints (general)
Not sure where to start — start here.
Not sure where to start? File with the state first; copy EPA only if it is federal.
Call first
Where to start. The office or organization with primary jurisdiction.
- State Environmental AgencyState agency
Also contact
Parallel jurisdiction or oversight role.
- EPAFederal agency
- Code EnforcementIf the issue is on a specific property.
May help
Non-government responders who often assist residents.
- Waterkeeper AllianceNGO · National · Grassroots
- EarthjusticeNGO · National · Legal
- Southern Environmental Law CenterNGO · Regional · Legal
- EPA ECHO — Enforcement & ComplianceInformation source · National
- State public-records portalInformation source · State
If needed
Paid professionals — only if your situation requires expert review.
- Environmental consultantProfessional discipline
Not usually responsible
Common wrong calls. These offices cannot help with this topic.
— none for this topic.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Listing ≠ endorsement
Before They Build
Civic Handbook · Vol. I · Edition One
Response Cards · generated June 19, 2026
beforetheybuild.com/reports/community-guide
Printed June 19, 2026 · Reference ID ------
Private to this device. General information only — not legal advice. Confirm details with your local authority.
© 2026 Before They Build™. Educational use permitted. Not legal advice. Reprint or commercial use: beforetheybuild.com/permissions
Free during Public Beta · Suggested Support $2–3 · beforetheybuild.com/support