What's the issue?
Neighbors say they have complained for years about the accumulation of refuse and non-working mechanical items in the front yard and driveway of the home at 22931 Via Santa Maria.
The occupant initially responded cordially to their requests to clean up the property but continued amassing appliances, go-karts, bicycles and other items visible from neighboring properties and the street. Frustrated residents eventually appealed to the Mission Viejo City Council, describing the property—which faces Oxford Preparatory Academy—as an eyesore and raising concerns about potential fire and safety hazards.
Public nuisance hearing
The Mission Viejo Municipal Code classifies visible accumulations of junk, refuse, broken machinery, appliances and similar materials as a “public nuisance” under certain circumstances, including when “visible from a public street, alley or neighboring property.”
Following its review of the property, the City issued a notice directing the occupant to correct several code violations by June 26, 2026. According to City officials, the deadline passed without the violations being remedied.
During a visit to the property in mid-July, corrugated boxes, storage bins, a generator, cabinetry, electric fans, go-karts, model airplanes and dozens of other items were scattered across the front lawn and driveway. The accumulation also blocked access to the home’s front entrance.
What's next?
City Attorney Tarquin Preziosi said the next step is a public nuisance hearing before an independent hearing officer.
That hearing is now scheduled for 2 PM on August 5 at Mission Viejo City Hall. If the hearing officer determines the property constitutes a public nuisance, the City may proceed with abatement if the violations are not corrected within five days of that determination.
