Code Enforcement Officer

Position Summary

The Code Enforcement Officer is responsible for enforcing municipal codes, ordinances, and regulations related to property maintenance, zoning, housing standards, nuisance abatement, and public safety within the Town of Forest Heights. This position plays a critical role in preserving neighborhood quality, ensuring compliance with Town codes, and promoting the health, safety, and welfare of residents and businesses.

The Code Enforcement Officer works independently in the field and collaboratively with Town departments, including the Police Department, Public Works, and Administrative Services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and complaint-based inspections of residential, commercial, and vacant

properties to ensure compliance with Town codes and ordinances.
• Identify violations related to property maintenance, zoning, housing conditions, nuisance

issues, signage, illegal dumping, abandoned vehicles, and related matters.
• Issue notices of violation, warning letters, citations, and compliance orders in accordance with

Town policies and applicable laws.
• Educate property owners, tenants, and business operators regarding code requirements and

corrective actions needed for compliance.
• Maintain accurate records, inspection reports, photographs, and case files using Town-approved

systems.
• Coordinate enforcement actions with the Police Department, Public Works, Fire Marshal, and

other agencies as necessary.
• Prepare documentation and testify in administrative hearings, municipal court, or other

proceedings related to code enforcement actions.
• Monitor compliance deadlines and conduct follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions.
• Assist with community outreach efforts related to neighborhood standards and quality-of-life

initiatives.
• Respond professionally to residents’ concerns, complaints, and inquiries regarding code

enforcement matters.
• Perform related duties as assigned to support Town operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of municipal codes, property maintenance standards, and zoning principles.
• Working knowledge of inspection techniques, enforcement procedures, and due process

requirements.
• Ability to interpret and apply ordinances, regulations, and policies fairly and consistently.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and public interaction.
• Ability to handle confrontational situations calmly, professionally, and tactfully.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications, mobile inspection tools, and record-keeping

systems.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple cases, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or coursework in criminal justice,

public administration, urban planning, or a related field preferred.
• One (1) year or more of experience in code enforcement, inspections, property management,

public safety, or a related field preferred.
• Valid Maryland driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to successfully complete a background investigation.

Preferred Certifications

• Maryland Code Enforcement certification or equivalent (or ability to obtain within a specified

timeframe).
• Property Maintenance Inspector or Housing Inspector certification.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regular field work requiring walking, standing, climbing stairs, bending, and exposure to

varying weather conditions.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on operational needs.
• Work may involve exposure to distressed properties, animals, and confrontational individuals.