The inspectors use the building codes and when not followed, they issue a citation or violation. 

You can search criminal/citation cases records, as well as civil/family/probate cases. 

What if the city issues a citation for them not mowing the yard?  

Look for motivational factors like evictions, code citations, vandalism, probate etc. if you are targeting NOO.

Do you have citation / links to any statute or case law that supports this or other supporting info on the subject?

And now that I've been sent the citation they have the power to insist that I upgrade by building an enclosure for the dumpster as well (new code).

Does anyone have citations of any laws proving or disproving this statement.

Are these properties not getting citations?

And it’s not a regular Karen; these people are powerful, think “everyone knows everyone” kinda town, and they are petty, they don’t fear calling cops and getting citations against you, they’re not afraid to read the tiny print of city bylaws and make sure you have ti remove your fence because it blocks a view in their “nature” reserve sort of town, etc. which brings me to point 2 of why you will NEVER build.2.

They will come out to inspect the property for habitability and force the landlord to repair and even give citation.