Code Compliance Officer I

Code Enforcement Officer

Under general supervision, perform a variety of duties involved in investigating, enforcing, and resolving complaints about City codes and ordinances including zoning, housing, fire, utility, dangerous building, and the application of uniform building codes. This is the entry level in the class series. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and follows an established methodology, structure, pattern, and policy. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise, and require prior approval before changes are effective. Since this classification is often used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. Exercises no supervision.

Receive, record, and investigate complaints from the public and staff regarding violations of municipal codes, ordinances, standards, and health and safety regulations; document violations by securing photographs and other pertinent data; research ownership records, prior complaints, municipal codes and ordinances, and state regulations to establish whether a violation has occurred. Inspect existing buildings, structures, and properties to determine their conformity with City, State, and Federal standards and laws pertaining to zoning, housing, fire, utility, building, and other related codes to prevent blight in the City; conduct re-inspections to ensure compliance. Abate public nuisances such as vacant structures, abandoned vehicles, hazardous swimming pools, signs, and property maintenance through summary powers and court orders. Maintain current field activity inspection logs; issue correction notices; prepare detailed reports, inspection warrants, abatement warrants, and staff reports; submit statistical data for monthly reports and other correspondence. Confer and coordinate enforcement activities with members of other departments and agencies including Building, Planning, Business License, Administration, Police, County Fire, and Health. Maintain statement of costs, liens, court ordered restitution, and cost recovery. Oversee City approved contractors for property abatements and ensure work completion meets City standards. Initiate contacts with residents, business representatives, and other parties to explain the nature of incurred violations and to encourage compliance with municipal codes, ordinances, and community standards. Prepare notices of violation or noncompliance and citations according to applicable codes and regulations; issue letters to property owners notifying them of violation. Coordinate and conduct follow-up abatement procedures including the preparation of additional correspondence, site visits, and communication with property owners and attorneys; conduct follow-up investigations to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances; prepare non-compliance cases for legal action and administrative hearings; present testimony at hearings in court. Provide information to violators, the public, business community, and other government agencies regarding codes, laws, and ordinances; respond to questions, complaints, and inquiries. Prepare a variety of written reports, memoranda, and correspondence. Input and retrieve a variety of information using a computer terminal. Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge of modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment. Occupational hazards and standard safety practices necessary for code compliance. Principles and practices used in working with the public. Principles of record keeping, case management, and reporting. Basic mathematical principles, and operations. English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation. Safe driving principles and practices. Skill to operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software. Operate a motor vehicle safely. Ability to learn principles, practices, methods, and techniques of code violation investigation and enforcement. Learn principles and techniques of fire and utility inspection. Learn methods and procedures used in code compliance including citation issuance procedures, criminal, civil, and administrative remedies, methods used to obtain various types of inspection warrants, and principles used to prepare legal documents. Learn, interpret, and apply the policies, procedures, laws, codes, and regulations pertaining to assigned code compliance programs and functions. Learn to read and interpret maps, plans, and legal descriptions. Maintain and update records, logs, and reports. Respond to inquiries, complaints, and requests for service in a fair, tactful and timely manner. Work independently in the absence of supervision. Understand and follow verbal and written instructions. Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted during work.

One year of experience in investigation, enforcement, or public contact. Equivalent to a high school diploma. Supplemental specialized college level training in planning, zoning, inspection, or law enforcement is desirable. Possession of an appropriate, valid driver's license and insurability at regular rates for the City's automobile insurance. Possession of, or ability to obtain within one year of hire, a PC 832 Certificate. Possession, or ability to obtain, First Aid and CPR certificates. Possession of, or ability to obtain with one year of hire, CACEO Certification. Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, stoop, squat, and lift up to 50 lbs.; exposure to outdoors; ability to travel to different sites and locations.