Job Details
Code Enforcement Officer
2026-01-23 City of Lake Forest, CA Lake Forest,CA
Description:
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way 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:
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
Examples of Duties
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the class.
Typical Qualifications
The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.
Knowledge of:
Operations, services, and activities of a municipal code enforcement program; principles, practices, and methods used in the enforcement of a variety of codes; procedures involved in the enforcement of codes and regulations including methods and techniques of conducting and documenting field investigations; applicable federal, state, and local codes, laws and regulations related to building, zoning, housing, and nuisance violations; legal actions applicable to code enforcement compliance; public relations and conflict resolution methods and techniques; record keeping practices; business letter writing and basic report preparation techniques; modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications; occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
Ability to:
Independently perform a full range of municipal code enforcement and compliance duties; interpret and apply applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations related to zoning, nuisance abatement, and health and safety issues; inspect and identify violations of applicable codes and ordinances; enforce pertinent codes, ordinances, laws, and regulations with impartiality and efficiency; operate personal computer to access information and utilize common business applications; read and interpret legislation, zoning and subdivision law as related to zoning enforcement; learn the appropriate manner and the necessary skill to deal with the various segments of the public in explaining zoning requirements and procedures; recognize conditions that constitute a zoning violation; read blueprints and landscaping plans; respond to inquiries, complaints, and requests for service in a fair, tactful, and firm manner; investigate complaints and mediate resolutions in a timely and tactful manner; prepare accurate and detailed documentation of investigation findings; maintain complex logs, records, and files; research, compile, and collect data; prepare clear and concise technical reports; work independently in the absence of supervision; follow written and oral instructions; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:
Possess and maintain a valid California Driver License necessary to operate assigned vehicle(s).
Possession of one of the following certifications or the ability to obtain the certification within six months of hire:
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is graduation from high school or G.E.D. equivalent and two years of work experience involving code enforcement and considerable public contact, preferably in a governmental Planning or Building Safety department involving code enforcement responsibilities or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Supplemental Information
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical and mental demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this class, the employee is regularly required to work in a field environment; to walk, stand, and sit for prolonged periods of time; to frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, reach, twist, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb unusual heights on ladders; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull moderate to heavy amounts of weight; to operate assigned equipment and vehicles; and to verbally communicate to exchange information. Specific hearing abilities required by this job include hearing in the normal audio range with or without correction. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental Demands
While performing the duties of this class, the employee must be able to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; interpret policies and procedures; use math and mathematical reasoning; learn and apply new information or new skills; work under deadlines with constant interruptions; and interact with the general public, outside organizations, business representatives, employees, and others encountered in the course of work, including occasionally dealing with conflict situations.
Work Environment
The employee works in both indoor and outdoor environments; work alone; travel from site to site; incumbents may be exposed to noise, dust, inclement weather conditions, potentially hostile people and/or environments, and aggressive and/or ill animals.
WORK FOR THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
A Career That Supports Your Life
The City of Lake Forest offers meaningful public service, career stability, and competitive benefits and compensation package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.
RETIREMENT
Participation in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS), providing long-term financial stability for your future. "New Member" employees are covered by the "2% at 62" option of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) plan "Classic Member" employees are covered by the "2% at 55" option of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) plan.
HEALTH & INSURANCE BENEFITS
The City of Lake Forest utilizes a Pay-for-Performance Compensation Plan, which awards merit increases based on work results achieved against performance targets.
MANAGEMENT LEAVE
Management employees may receive annual management leave of 56 hours (department heads); 40 hours (division managers), or 32 hours (other management employees).
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION ALLOWANCE
Employees are entitled to an annual fiscal year allowance on a reimbursement basis for a physical examination. Department Heads can receive up to $500 and all other employees can receive up to $300.
CELL PHONE ALLOWANCE
Management Team members (i.e., City Manager, Department Heads, Division Managers and Assistant to the City Manager) receive monthly cell phone allowances ranging from $30 - $100.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM
Upon completion of the initial probationary period (or one year), an employee is eligible for reimbursement of tuition for up to $1,500 per fiscal year for approved completed coursework toward a college degree.
STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS
The City of Lake Forest is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, helping eligible employees reduce or eliminate federal student loan debt while serving the community.
WELLNESS & WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Note: This is only a summary of fringe benefits available to full-time employees. Complete descriptions and eligibility criteria may be obtained from Human Resources. (6/25)
01
Please select the highest level of education you possess:
02
Please select the area(s) in which you have completed college level coursework:
03
Please indicate your level of responsible work experience in code enforcement or similar investigative/inspection work for a public or private agency:
04
Please describe your responsible work experience in code enforcement or similar investigative/inspection work for a public or private agency (if no experience, type N/A).
05
Do you possess a current and valid California driver's license and an acceptable driving record?
06
Do you acknowledge your understanding that possession of one of the following certifications, or the ability to obtain the certification within six (6) months of hire, is required?CACEO Beginning Level I Certification; orPOST Certification, including Basic Penal Code Section 832 module certification.
07
Have you received any formal code enforcement training and/or certification(s)?
08
If yes, please describe your training and list your certification(s) (if none type N/A).
09
Please select your proficiency with computer applications commonly used in code enforcement (e.g., GIS, database software, Microsoft Office, permitting systems):
10
Have you prepared reports or presented case findings to a hearing officer or in court?
11
Why are you interested in this code enforcement position at the City of Lake Forest?
Required Question
Salary : $75,636.00 - $98,328.00 Annually
Location : Lake Forest, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Community Development
Opening Date: 01/21/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Description
Come join the City of Lake Forest Community Development Department/Code Enforcement Division!
The City of Lake Forest - "Remember the past, challenge the future!"
If you are interestedin being a change-maker and behind-the-scenes expert in the growth of the City of Lake Forest, we have the job for you! Come contribute to our vibrant community and join our dedicated team!
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.
The City of Lake Forest is currently recruiting to fill one (1) full-time Code Enforcement Officer position within the Community Development Department. Thisrecruitment will also establish as 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, subject to tenure, job performance, and operational considerations.
If keeping things orderly and in compliance is something that comes naturally to you, we want you to join our team as a Code Enforcement Officer! As a Code Enforcement Officer, you will investigate complaints and violations of zoning, monitor and enforce a variety of codes and ordinances in support of City departments including those related to, land use, planning, public nuisances, abandoned vehicles, and other issues relating to health, safety, and welfare of the community; and serves as a resource and provides information on City regulations to property owners, residents, businesses, the general public, and other City departments and divisions.
Please click here for the complete classification.
Interested? Apply here!
The Ideal Candidate
- Builds and maintains positive working relationships through exceptional customer service.
- Independently performs a full range of municipal code enforcement and compliance duties.
- Communicates clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to public service through an engaged and professional work ethic.
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way 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)
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
Examples of Duties
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the class.
- Responds to inquiries and provides technical assistance to property owners and the general public regarding compliance with zoning regulations, property maintenance standards, regulatory practices, and currently active code enforcement cases; assists individuals during field inspections, at the public counter, and through telephone and electronic communications
- Investigates and responds to public complaints regarding municipal codes and regulations; conducts on-site inspections; and determines the existence and types of potential code violations
- Documents violations in accordance with procedural guidelines by preparing detailed notes and taking photographs; issues warnings, citations, and notices of violations to individuals and organizations in violation of codes and regulations
- Recommends corrective action in order to bring about compliance; determines timelines for compliance in accordance with local standards and requirements; assists homeowners and businesses with procedures to obtain compliance
- Conducts research regarding property ownership and applicable codes; maintains a computer database of evidence and data; maintains accurate case files containing complete records of complaints and inspections; prepares correspondence and summary reports
- Prepares documentation for legal action and may be required to testify and present evidence in court as necessary
- Attains compliance from difficult individuals and situations. Responds tactfully, clearly, concisely, and professionally both verbally and in writing.
- Participates in outreach to new businesses, homeowner's associations, and community groups in the city.
- Coordinates enforcement activities with other governmental agencies and City departments.
- Consults with legal staff concerning enforcement orders; provides assistance to legal staff in preparation of cases for prosecution, including preparing reports, and attends court hearings with the City Attorney as necessary.
- May be required to work weekends, evenings, or early mornings to ensure compliance with code requirements
- Performs related duties as required.
Typical Qualifications
The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.
Knowledge of:
Operations, services, and activities of a municipal code enforcement program; principles, practices, and methods used in the enforcement of a variety of codes; procedures involved in the enforcement of codes and regulations including methods and techniques of conducting and documenting field investigations; applicable federal, state, and local codes, laws and regulations related to building, zoning, housing, and nuisance violations; legal actions applicable to code enforcement compliance; public relations and conflict resolution methods and techniques; record keeping practices; business letter writing and basic report preparation techniques; modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications; occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
Ability to:
Independently perform a full range of municipal code enforcement and compliance duties; interpret and apply applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations related to zoning, nuisance abatement, and health and safety issues; inspect and identify violations of applicable codes and ordinances; enforce pertinent codes, ordinances, laws, and regulations with impartiality and efficiency; operate personal computer to access information and utilize common business applications; read and interpret legislation, zoning and subdivision law as related to zoning enforcement; learn the appropriate manner and the necessary skill to deal with the various segments of the public in explaining zoning requirements and procedures; recognize conditions that constitute a zoning violation; read blueprints and landscaping plans; respond to inquiries, complaints, and requests for service in a fair, tactful, and firm manner; investigate complaints and mediate resolutions in a timely and tactful manner; prepare accurate and detailed documentation of investigation findings; maintain complex logs, records, and files; research, compile, and collect data; prepare clear and concise technical reports; work independently in the absence of supervision; follow written and oral instructions; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:
Possess and maintain a valid California Driver License necessary to operate assigned vehicle(s).
Possession of one of the following certifications or the ability to obtain the certification within six months of hire:
- CACEO Beginning Level I Certification. CACEO Level II and III Certifications are desirable.
- POST Certification: possession of Basic P.C.832 module certification or the ability to obtain the certification within six months of hire
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is graduation from high school or G.E.D. equivalent and two years of work experience involving code enforcement and considerable public contact, preferably in a governmental Planning or Building Safety department involving code enforcement responsibilities or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Supplemental Information
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical and mental demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this class, the employee is regularly required to work in a field environment; to walk, stand, and sit for prolonged periods of time; to frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, reach, twist, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb unusual heights on ladders; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull moderate to heavy amounts of weight; to operate assigned equipment and vehicles; and to verbally communicate to exchange information. Specific hearing abilities required by this job include hearing in the normal audio range with or without correction. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental Demands
While performing the duties of this class, the employee must be able to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; interpret policies and procedures; use math and mathematical reasoning; learn and apply new information or new skills; work under deadlines with constant interruptions; and interact with the general public, outside organizations, business representatives, employees, and others encountered in the course of work, including occasionally dealing with conflict situations.
Work Environment
The employee works in both indoor and outdoor environments; work alone; travel from site to site; incumbents may be exposed to noise, dust, inclement weather conditions, potentially hostile people and/or environments, and aggressive and/or ill animals.
WORK FOR THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
A Career That Supports Your Life
The City of Lake Forest offers meaningful public service, career stability, and competitive benefits and compensation package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.
RETIREMENT
Participation in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS), providing long-term financial stability for your future. "New Member" employees are covered by the "2% at 62" option of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) plan "Classic Member" employees are covered by the "2% at 55" option of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) plan.
HEALTH & INSURANCE BENEFITS
- Medical coverage with the City paying up to 90% of the highest HMO premium of CalPERS medical for employes and dependents.
- City-fully paid dental and vision insurance for employees and dependents
- Cash-in-lieu option for employees with qualifying outside coverage
- Employer-paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
The City of Lake Forest utilizes a Pay-for-Performance Compensation Plan, which awards merit increases based on work results achieved against performance targets.
MANAGEMENT LEAVE
Management employees may receive annual management leave of 56 hours (department heads); 40 hours (division managers), or 32 hours (other management employees).
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION ALLOWANCE
Employees are entitled to an annual fiscal year allowance on a reimbursement basis for a physical examination. Department Heads can receive up to $500 and all other employees can receive up to $300.
CELL PHONE ALLOWANCE
Management Team members (i.e., City Manager, Department Heads, Division Managers and Assistant to the City Manager) receive monthly cell phone allowances ranging from $30 - $100.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM
Upon completion of the initial probationary period (or one year), an employee is eligible for reimbursement of tuition for up to $1,500 per fiscal year for approved completed coursework toward a college degree.
STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS
The City of Lake Forest is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, helping eligible employees reduce or eliminate federal student loan debt while serving the community.
WELLNESS & WORK-LIFE BALANCE
- On-site employee gym
- Flexible work schedules may be available depending on position
- Employees depending on the position may be eligible to telecommute one day per week, per department approval.
Note: This is only a summary of fringe benefits available to full-time employees. Complete descriptions and eligibility criteria may be obtained from Human Resources. (6/25)
01
Please select the highest level of education you possess:
- High school diploma or GED
- Some college or certificate(s)
- Associate's degree
- Bachelor's degree
- Advanced degree
- None of the above
02
Please select the area(s) in which you have completed college level coursework:
- Criminal Justice
- Planning
- Public Administration
- Law Enforcement
- Construction Inspection
- I have not completed college level coursework in any of the above.
03
Please indicate your level of responsible work experience in code enforcement or similar investigative/inspection work for a public or private agency:
- Less than 2 years of experience
- 2 to 4 years of experience
- More than 5 years of experience
04
Please describe your responsible work experience in code enforcement or similar investigative/inspection work for a public or private agency (if no experience, type N/A).
05
Do you possess a current and valid California driver's license and an acceptable driving record?
- Yes
- I have a valid driver's license from another state and an acceptable driving record.
- No
06
Do you acknowledge your understanding that possession of one of the following certifications, or the ability to obtain the certification within six (6) months of hire, is required?CACEO Beginning Level I Certification; orPOST Certification, including Basic Penal Code Section 832 module certification.
- Yes
- No
07
Have you received any formal code enforcement training and/or certification(s)?
- Yes
- No
08
If yes, please describe your training and list your certification(s) (if none type N/A).
09
Please select your proficiency with computer applications commonly used in code enforcement (e.g., GIS, database software, Microsoft Office, permitting systems):
- Limited experience
- Basic knowledge of one or two applications
- Proficient in multiple applications
- Advanced user with experience in system administration or customization
10
Have you prepared reports or presented case findings to a hearing officer or in court?
- Yes
- No
11
Why are you interested in this code enforcement position at the City of Lake Forest?
Required Question