Frequently Asked Questions about Fines

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What is a Notice of Infraction?

A Notice of Infraction assesses a fine for violation of one or more District of Columbia environmental laws or regulations.

Why did I receive a Notice of Infraction?

DOEE believes you have violated one or more environmental laws or regulations.

When do I need to respond?

You have twenty (20) calendar days from the “Date of Service” on your Notice of Infraction to respond. If you do not respond on time, you may be assessed the full fine plus a penalty of double the fine amount.

How do I respond to a Notice of Infraction?

Fill out your parts of the Notice of Infraction. Be sure to “Admit,” “Admit with Explanation,” or “Deny” each violation. Specific instructions can be found on your Notice of Infraction. If you “Admit” all violations, you must pay the fine at the same time. If you admit with explanation or deny a violation, you must file an appeal with a neutral administrative court, the Office of Administrative Hearing, that is independent of DOEE. For more information, see Office of Administrative Hearings.

Where do I send my response to a Notice of Infraction?

File the completed and signed Notice of Infraction, as well as any explanation or documents, at [email protected] or send to:

Clerk, Office of Administrative Hearings
One Judiciary Square, 441 4th Street, NW
Washington, DC 2001-2714

How do I pay a Notice of Infraction fine?

Pay by credit card: Go to Fines and Enforcement, click on “pay fines online,” and enter the Notice of Infraction number.

Pay by check or money order: Make payable to “DC Treasurer,” include the Notice of Infraction number, and mail or deliver payment to:

Department of Energy and Environment
Office of Enforcement and Environmental Justice
1200 First Street NE, 5th Floor
Washington, DC 20002-3361

For questions about payment, contact [email protected] or (202) 741-2139.

What happens after I respond to a Notice of Infraction?

• If you pay the fine, the court will close the case.

• If you provide a written explanation, the court will give DOEE an opportunity to review and respond to your explanation and issue a court order with a decision based on your explanation and DOEE’s response.

• If you deny a violation, the court will schedule a hearing. You must appear at the hearing, which may be by telephone, online, or in person. Questions about Hearings.

What happens if I don’t respond to a Notice of Infraction?

A judge may issue a court order finding you liable for the violation and the full amount of the fine, plus an additional penalty of double the fine amount. You will owe triple the fine amount.

Who should I contact for help with a Notice of Infraction?

Office of Administrative Hearings:
Website: oah.dc.gov | Phone: (202) 442-9094 | Fax: (202) 442-4789

DOEE Office of Enforcement and Environmental Justice:
Website: doee.dc.gov | Phone: (202) 741-2139 | Email: [email protected].

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