Code Enforcement Officer Job Lake Forest area,California USA,Government

Overview

Come join the City of Lake Forest Community Development Department/Code Enforcement Division. The City invites you to contribute to a vibrant community as a change-maker and behind-the-scenes expert in the growth of Lake Forest.

The City of Lake Forest is currently recruiting to fill one (1) full-time Code Enforcement Officer position within the Community Development Department. This recruitment will also establish an eligibility list to be used for any future vacancies over the next 12-month period. This position offers consideration for potential advancement based on performance, experience, tenure, job performance, and operational considerations.

The recruitment will be continuously accepting applications. A first review of applications will be conducted on February 4, 2026, or after the first 150 applications have been received, whichever comes first.

Role:
Code Enforcement Officer – Investigate complaints and violations of zoning, monitor and enforce codes and ordinances in support of City departments including land use, planning, public nuisances, abandoned vehicles, and other health, safety, and welfare issues; provide information on City regulations to property owners, residents, businesses, the general public, and other City departments and divisions.

Please note:

The following describes the duties, qualifications, and requirements related to the position.

Responsibilities

Respond to inquiries and provide technical assistance to property owners and the public regarding zoning regulations, property maintenance standards, regulatory practices, and active code enforcement cases; assist during field inspections, at the public counter, and through telephone and electronic communications

Investigate and respond to public complaints regarding municipal codes; conduct on-site inspections and determine the existence and type of potential code violations

Document violations according to procedural guidelines by preparing detailed notes and photographs; issue warnings, citations, and notices of violations

Recommend corrective action to achieve compliance; determine timelines in accordance with local standards; assist homeowners and businesses with procedures to obtain compliance

Conduct research regarding property ownership and applicable codes; maintain a computer database of evidence and data; maintain complete case files and prepare correspondence and reports

Prepare documentation for legal action and may testify and present evidence in court as necessary

Attain compliance from difficult individuals and situations; respond tactfully and professionally in writing and verbally

Participate in outreach to new businesses, homeowner associations, and community groups

Coordinate enforcement activities with other governmental agencies and City departments

Consult with legal staff concerning enforcement orders; assist in case preparation for prosecution and attend court hearings as necessary

May be required to work weekends, evenings, or early mornings to ensure compliance with code requirements

Perform related duties as required

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical path to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. An Associate’s Degree in a related field is desirable.

Experience: Two (2) years of code enforcement experience with significant public contact, preferably in a governmental Planning or Building Safety Department, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Certificates

Possession of one of the following, or the ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire:

CACEO Beginning Level I Certification, or
POST Certification (Basic Penal Code Section 832 module)

License

Valid California Driver License required.

Pre-Placement Requirements

A conditional offer is contingent upon successful completion of a Live Scan (FBI/DOJ), physical examination, and DMV record review

Knowledge and Abilities

The following describes knowledge and ability required for the role:

Knowledge of:

Operations, services, and activities of a municipal code enforcement program; enforcement principles and practices; field investigation methods; applicable codes, laws, and regulations; public relations and conflict resolution; record keeping; report preparation; modern office procedures and software; safety procedures.

Ability to:

Independently perform code enforcement duties; interpret and apply codes; inspect and identify violations; enforce codes with impartiality and efficiency; operate a computer; read and interpret legislation related to zoning; communicate clearly; deal with the public tactfully; prepare detailed documentation and reports; maintain records; work independently; follow instructions; establish effective working relationships.

Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:

Possess and maintain a valid California Driver License. Possession of one of the following…


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