Where to file. By topic.ParticipateBinder Tab D — Response

Complaint directory

File a complaint.

If something is wrong and you don't know where to start, start here. Each category tells you who investigates, what evidence helps, and what happens after you file.

≈4 min read

Imminent danger? Call 911 first. Then come back and file a written complaint so there is a paper record.

Water

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Date and time observed
Photos of discharge or discoloration
Smell description
GPS or street location
Photos of any pipe or outfall

Typical response

1–10 business days for non-emergencies

What happens next

An inspector will usually log the complaint, may visit the site, and decide whether to open a case. You can request the case number.

Tips

Use the state agency's online portal if available.
If you suspect drinking-water contamination, also call your local water utility.
Imminent threats: call 911 first.

Air

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Date, time, duration
Wind direction
Plume or odour description
Photos / video
Health symptoms

Typical response

Same day for active emissions, otherwise 1–10 days

What happens next

The state environmental agency may dispatch an inspector during the event or open a file for pattern review.

Tips

Call while the event is happening; same-day inspections require it.
Keep a simple log of dates and times across the week.

Wildlife

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Species (best guess)
Photos / video
Date and time
Location

Typical response

Varies; poaching tips often investigated same week

What happens next

State wildlife officers triage based on species and severity. Federally listed species may trigger a federal review.

Tips

For poaching, use the state tip line.
For endangered species, contact USFWS directly.

Noise

Who investigates

Code Enforcement

What evidence helps

Date, time, duration
Address of source
Recording (if safe)
Decibel reading (phone app is fine)

Typical response

1–5 business days; some cities offer real-time response after hours

What happens next

Code enforcement reviews the ordinance and may issue a warning or citation.

Tips

Check the local noise ordinance for allowed hours.
Repeat patterns are stronger than single events.

Construction

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Address
Photos of work
Permit number if posted
Description of activity

Typical response

1–5 business days

What happens next

Inspector confirms whether work matches the permit and conditions. Stop-work orders are possible.

Tips

Ask: 'Is there an active permit for this address, and can I see the conditions?'

Trees

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Photos before and after
Tree size estimate
Street or property location

Typical response

1–10 business days

What happens next

Local tree ordinance is reviewed; replanting or fines may apply.

Tips

Street trees usually belong to the city; trees on private land have separate rules.

Wetlands

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Photos of fill or clearing
GPS coordinates
Date observed
Adjacent waterbody name

Typical response

Federal complaints can take weeks; state may be faster

What happens next

USACE may issue a cease-and-desist, require restoration, or pursue penalties.

Tips

Note any standing water, hydric soils (dark, mucky), or wetland plants in your photos.

Utility work

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Utility name and crew vehicle ID
Photos
Date and time
Description of activity

Typical response

1–10 business days

What happens next

PUC or local public works confirms whether work was authorized.

Tips

Ask the crew for the project number; legitimate work has one.

Traffic

Who investigates

What evidence helps

Intersection or address
Time of day pattern
Photos / video of unsafe condition

Typical response

Typically queued for traffic engineering review

What happens next

Engineering staff evaluate; changes can take months to years.

Tips

State highways require state DOT; local streets go to public works.

Last reviewed June 2026. Information only — not legal advice.