Atlanta cracks down on illegal auto repair shops in residential neighborhoods

Suspected shadetree mechanics cited in Atlanta

The city of Atlanta has cited two northwest Atlanta homeowners for allegedly operating mechanical repair shops in a residential neighborhood. The citations come after neighbors say they complained for years about junked cars, and other parts, and fluids - creating problems for drivers and even students walking to school.

ATLANTA - After years of complaints from residents in a northwest Atlanta neighborhood, city officials have issued citations to two homeowners accused of illegally running auto repair shops from their properties.

SEE ALSO: Atlanta residents fight against alleged illegal car repair shop

What we know:

City planning inspectors were seen citing one property on Adkins Road Friday, a day after the neighboring house received a similar violation. Both citations allege the operation of mechanical repair businesses in a residential district.

The enforcement comes after what residents say has been a decades-long struggle to get city officials to intervene. Neighbors on Adkins Road, near Fairburn Road, have repeatedly reported junk vehicles, oil-stained driveways, and a rotating cast of cars and tow trucks — even a sign advertising auto repair services.

What they're saying:

"They clean up for a few days or a few weeks and then it starts right back over," said Dama Riles, whose elderly parents live across from the cited homes. "So it’s been a start and stop cycle."

James and Janie Riles, ages 91 and 84 respectively, say they've been pleading for help for years.

"We’ve been trying to get something done so long, we just gave up," Janie said. "We call, we call, we call, and nothing happens."

"They’re lying to you, really, to be honest about it," added James Riles when told the homeowners denied doing repair work.

Neighbors say the issue has gone far beyond being a simple nuisance — they claim it's become a safety hazard. Eunice Guilford, who also lives nearby, said cars parked on both sides of the street near a blind curve have nearly caused multiple crashes.

"I have almost had three accidents because it’s a curve right there and you can’t see around the curve," Guilford said.

The other side:

According to the city of Atlanta’s code enforcement database, dozens of complaints have been filed over the years against the two properties, including issues with inoperable vehicles, cars parked on the lawn, and suspected business activity in a residential area.

Despite denials from the homeowners, FOX 5 cameras documented numerous auto parts, hoses, and fluids on the premises.

What's next:

Both property owners are scheduled to appear in municipal court to respond to the citations. Residents say they’re hopeful this time the enforcement will stick.