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Code Enforcement Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Code Inspector I

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$56K - $81K/yr

The Code Inspector I reports to the Inspections Supervisor. The primary functions of this position ... in an enforcement field (investigative report writing and documentation, issuing citations ...

Code Inspector I

Gilbert, AZ · On-site

$56K - $81K/yr

Must possess or obtain an Arizona Code Enforcement Assocation (ACEA) Level I Code Academy certification withing 18 months of hire. This position requires a pre-employment background check and ...

Planner

Kingman, AZ · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

In addition to technical reviews, this position plays an active role in shaping the community through field inspections and code enforcement to address zoning violations. The successful candidate ...

Building Plans Examiner

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$28.85 - $48.25/hr

... code enforcement, drainage review, and maintaining records using the County's automated permitting system and computerized geographic information system. About Us Maricopa County is GROWING. At the ...

... code enforcement, drainage review, and maintaining records using the County's automated permitting system and computerized geographic information system. About Us Maricopa County is GROWING. At the ...

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Code Enforcement information

See Arizona salary details

$26.6K

$55.9K

$87.6K

How much do code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for code enforcement in Arizona is $55,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are code enforcement officers and what do they do?

Code enforcement officers are professionals responsible for ensuring that local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to building codes, zoning, property maintenance, and public safety are followed. They inspect properties, investigate complaints, and work with property owners to resolve violations. Their goal is to maintain community standards, protect public health and safety, and improve neighborhood quality. Code enforcement officers may issue warnings, citations, or even initiate legal proceedings if violations are not corrected.

What does a code enforcement officer do?

A code enforcement officer ensures compliance with local building, zoning, and safety codes by inspecting properties, investigating violations, and issuing citations or notices for non-compliance. They often work with property owners, contractors, and city officials to resolve issues and may require knowledge of relevant regulations and documentation skills.

What are some common challenges faced by code enforcement officers in their daily work?

Code enforcement officers frequently encounter challenges such as handling confrontational situations with property owners, staying updated with evolving local codes and ordinances, and managing a high volume of cases efficiently. They often need to balance regulatory compliance with diplomacy, as building positive relationships with the community is crucial. Additionally, officers must document violations thoroughly and collaborate with other municipal departments, such as zoning, fire, or public health, to resolve complex issues.

What are career paths in code enforcement?

Career paths in code enforcement typically start with entry-level inspector or officer roles, focusing on enforcing building codes, zoning laws, and property standards. Advancement can lead to supervisory positions, specialized roles such as environmental or fire code inspectors, or management positions like code enforcement supervisor or director, often requiring additional certifications and experience. Skills in communication, knowledge of local regulations, and familiarity with inspection tools are important for career progression.

What is the difference between Code Enforcement vs Building Inspector?

AspectCode EnforcementBuilding Inspector
Required credentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need certifications in code enforcement or related fieldsRequires a high school diploma; certifications in building inspection or related areas are common
Work environmentFieldwork and office work; inspecting properties for code violationsPrimarily fieldwork; inspecting new and existing structures for compliance
Employer and industry usageMunicipalities, counties, government agenciesMunicipalities, counties, government agencies
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding roles related to code compliance and enforcementUnderstanding building inspection processes and requirements

Both roles are essential in ensuring safety and compliance within communities. While Code Enforcement focuses on violations of codes and ordinances, Building Inspectors primarily verify that construction and renovations meet building codes. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities within the regulatory framework.

What degree do you need to be a code enforcement officer?

A code enforcement officer typically needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent; however, some positions prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in fields like urban planning, public administration, or a related area. Relevant skills include knowledge of local codes and regulations, and some agencies may require certification or training in code enforcement procedures.

What's the difference between police and code enforcement?

Code enforcement officers focus on ensuring compliance with local ordinances related to property maintenance, zoning, and safety, while police officers enforce laws related to public safety, crime, and order. Code enforcement typically involves inspections and issuing citations for violations, whereas police handle criminal investigations and law enforcement actions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Code Enforcement Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Code Enforcement Officer, you need a solid understanding of local codes and ordinances, investigative techniques, and often a background in public administration or criminal justice. Familiarity with inspection software, record management systems, and sometimes certification such as the ICC (International Code Council) certification is typical. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for interacting with the public and resolving disputes. These abilities are crucial for ensuring community safety, upholding local standards, and maintaining positive relationships with residents.
What are the most commonly searched types of Code Enforcement jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Code Enforcement jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Code Enforcement jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Code Enforcement job openings:
Infographic showing various Code Enforcement job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,880 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Zoning and Building Code Enforcement Inspector - Development Services

Pima County Government

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$27.19 - $38.06/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Description Summary
Department - Development ServicesJob Description
Job Type: Classified
Job Classification: 5586 - Zoning and Building Code Enforcement Inspector
Salary Grade: 11
Pay Range
Hiring Range: $27.19 - $32.63 Per Hour
Pay Range: $27.19 - $38.06 Per Hour
Range Explanation:
  • Hiring Range is an estimate of where you can receive an offer. The actual salary offer will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, training, and internal equity.
  • Pay Range is the entire compensation range for the position.

The Zoning and Building Code Enforcement Inspector conducts and documents field inspections in urban and rural areas, issues citations, presides at public and court hearings, and performs follow-up field investigations to ensure compliance with County building and zoning codes, laws, ordinances and statutes. It is distinguished from all other inspector classifications by its specialization in zoning and building code enforcement.
Essential Functions:
As defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, this classification may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class. Work assignments may vary depending on the department's need and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the supervisor.
  • Inspects sites for compliance with zoning and building codes and document findings;
  • Issues citations, stop orders, and initiates enforcement actions for code violations;
  • Investigates zoning/building code violations, including interviewing responsible parties and gathering evidence;
  • Performs field inspections, takes photographs, makes sketches, and documents conditions of sites;
  • Prepares reports on inspection results and notifies responsible parties of necessary actions for compliance;
  • Inspects businesses and properties upon request from various agencies for code compliance;
  • Reviews deeds, legal descriptions, and verifies property information using software like GIS and AutoCAD;
  • Posts public hearing notices and performs field checks to ensure compliance with rezoning and development conditions;
  • Conducts research on complaints using various software tools, including permitting systems and databases;
  • Maintains records of inspections and submits reports on investigation findings;
  • Manages case files from initial contact through resolution, including documentation and updates;
  • Provides information to the public regarding zoning/building code violations and case status;
  • Collaborates with the County Attorney's Office and other agencies on resolving code issues;
  • Represents the agency at hearings, assists attorneys in case preparation, and testifies in court;
  • Works with other departments and divisions to resolve zoning/building code violations and facilitate coordination.

Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in urban or regional planning, geography, public administration, political science, hydrology, geology, business administration or a related field as defined by the department head at the time of recruitment.
(Relevant experience and/or education from an accredited college or university may be substituted. Examples of relevant experience may include experience in the enforcement of laws, rules, regulations or codes, such as law enforcement officer or investigator, insurance adjuster, or a related field as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment.)
OR:
One year of experience with Pima County as a Zoning Inspector, Field Zoning Inspector, Codes Enforcement Specialist, Building Inspector I OR two years with Pima County as a Planner or Code Enforcement Technician.
Qualifying education and experience must be clearly documented in the "Education" and "Work Experience" sections of the application. Do not substitute a resume for your application or write "see resume" on your application.
Preferred Qualifications: (Be specific in describing your experience in your application. Ensure the descriptions provided illustrate your competencies, specifically addressing the required and preferred qualifications.):
  • Experience with/knowledge of environmental, public health, animal control, and/or building/zoning code inspections.
  • Experience with/knowledge of reading and enforcing governmental regulations.
  • Experience interacting directly with the public and resolving citizen complaints.
  • Experience with/knowledge of legal documents and descriptions, land and title documents, as well as reading plat information on maps.

Selection Procedure:
Pima County Human Resources Department reserves the right to admit to the selection process only those candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. All applications will be assessed based on an evaluation of the listed education and experience. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications may be further evaluated/scored against any advertised Preferred Qualifications. The hiring authority will interview and select the successful candidate from a referral list provided by Human Resources. Additional assessments/testing may be required as part of the selection process.
Supplemental Information:
Licenses and Certificates: Valid driver license is required at time of application. Valid AZ driver license is required at time of appointment. The successful applicant will be subject to a 39-month DOT Motor Vehicle Record review to determine applicant's suitability to operate county vehicles in accordance with Pima County administrative procedures. Failure to obtain and maintain the required licenses and certifications shall be grounds for termination. Any offer of employment resulting from this recruitment is contingent upon Fleet Services' review and approval of the candidate's driving record. All positions require an International Codes Council (ICC) Zoning Inspector Certification or Coalition of Arizona County Code Enforcement Officials (CACCEO) Zoning Inspector Certification, and an International Code Council (ICC) Permit Technician Certification prior to or within twelve (12) months of appointment.
Special Notice Items: The County requires pre-employment background checks. Successful candidates will receive a post-offer, pre-employment background screening to include verification of work history, education, and criminal conviction history. A prior criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment with the County.
Physical/Sensory Requirements: Physical and sensory abilities will be determined by position. Action Activity - bending, climbing, kneeling, reaching, squtting and stooping; Motion Activity - grasping; Hearing Activity - in noisy areas and behind themselves; Speaking Activity - in person, on the phone, and on a cell; Vision - may be required to operate a motor vehicle, distinguish colors, have depth perception and peripheral vision.
Working Conditions: Works in an office setting or outdoors in extremes of heat, cold, inclement weather and exposure to dust, dirt, wind, construction activities and materials and to traverse rough terrain. Other working conditions will be determined by position.
EEO Information: Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce and will not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, kinship, political interest, or any other characteristic protected by law.