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Code Enforcement Jobs in South Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Code Enforcement Official

Newberry, SC ยท On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Code Enforcement Official Department: Administration Reports to: Assistant City Manager FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Date Effective: August 2026 Job Summary: Performs skilled inspection work in ...

Code Enforcer

Greenwood, SC ยท On-site

$38K - $57K/yr

Code Enforcement Officer Greenwood County, South Carolina Salary Range: $38,519 - $57,779 annually Schedule: Monday - Thursday | 7:45 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Greenwood County is seeking a dependable ...

Enforcement Officer

Aiken, SC ยท On-site

$45K - $52K/yr

Code Enforcement Division: Enforcement Opening Date: 03/07/2025 Description JOB SUMMARY: This position is responsible for enforcing County Ordinances and State laws in all matters of Code Enforcement.

Enforcement Officer

Aiken, SC ยท On-site

$45K - $52K/yr

This position is responsible for enforcing County Ordinances and State laws in all matters of Code Enforcement. This includes animal enforcement, litter enforcement, property nuisance, zoning ...

... code enforcement experience Necessary ICC certifications to obtain registration with South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation Building Codes Council as a Residential Inspector ...

Minimum five (5) years building code enforcement experience * Necessary ICC certifications to obtain registration with South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation Building Codes ...

Our employees are our greatest asset, with exceptionally certified individuals in all departments, including Planning & Zoning, Code Enforcement, Fire Prevention, and Engineering, as well as full ...

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Code Enforcement information

See South Carolina salary details

$26.4K

$55.6K

$87.2K

How much do code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for code enforcement in South Carolina is $55,645.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a code enforcement officer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a code enforcement officer?

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 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 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.

Is code enforcement a government job?

Yes, code enforcement positions are typically government jobs, often within local or municipal government agencies. These roles involve ensuring compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations, and may require knowledge of relevant laws and certifications. They usually work regular hours in an office or field setting.

Is code enforcement a stressful job?

Code enforcement officers often work in environments that require attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to handle conflicts, which can contribute to job stress. The workload and interactions with property owners or the public can also impact stress levels, but many find the role rewarding due to its community impact. Stress levels vary based on individual resilience and workplace support systems.

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, zoning, or safety codes. Advancement can lead to supervisory, managerial, or specialized positions such as code compliance manager or senior inspector, often requiring additional certifications or experience. Some professionals may transition into related fields like urban planning or environmental compliance.

What does it take to be a code enforcement officer?

A code enforcement officer typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring post-secondary education or specialized training. Relevant skills include knowledge of local building codes, strong communication, and attention to detail; certifications such as code enforcement or building inspector licenses can be beneficial. The job often involves working outdoors or in municipal offices and may require a valid driver's license.

What are the most commonly searched types of Code Enforcement jobs in South Carolina?

The most popular types of Code Enforcement jobs in South Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Code Enforcement jobs in South Carolina?

For Code Enforcement jobs in South Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in South Carolina are hiring for Code Enforcement jobs?

Cities in South Carolina with the most Code Enforcement job openings:

Infographic showing various Code Enforcement job openings in South Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,645 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Code Enforcement Official

City of Newberry

Newberry, SC โ€ข On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Patrols the city and citizen properties to ensure compliance with local ordinances and cites violations.

  • Investigates complaints, documents findings, and prepares evidence for code violation cases.

  • Responds to violations by sending notices, posting notices on properties, and following up on inspections and court cases.


Job description

Job Description 


Job Title: Code Enforcement Official

Department: Administration

Reports to: Assistant City Manager 

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Date Effective: August 2026

Job Summary:

Performs skilled inspection work in securing compliance and establishing codes governing the city’s ordinances. Must interpret, apply, and enforce the rules and regulations relating to code violations. Collaborates with the finance department regarding business licenses and A-Tax and hospitality tax due to delinquency on business licenses, A-Tax payments, and code/ordinance violations. Assists citizens, business owners, and homeowners with guidance on the policies, procedures, and requirements for ordinances, business licenses, and A-Tax. 

Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • None.

Additional Essential Knowledge:

  • City codes and ordinances; Federal and State laws; International Codes Services and SC Code of Regulations; SC Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation; Newberry County Assessor database. 
  • State, federal, and local business license regulations and policies; A-Tax policies and procedures.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Provides exceptional customer service to citizens, business owners, and homeowners regarding the process of getting business licenses, paying A-Tax, and following city ordinances. Must have a collaborative approach with the finance department, police department, building official, and development departments, and ensure there is good communication between the departments and customers.
  • Follows up on unpaid business licenses, and assisting in the business license renewal process.
  • Responds to complaints from property owners; investigates and researches the complaints; follows up on cited properties; prepares evidence as needed for cases.
  • Responsible for patrolling the city and citizen properties to ensure compliance with local ordinances and citing violations. 
  • Identifies property that is in violation, documents findings; sends notice of violations to owners of record; and posts the notices on the property. Takes measurements and photos; gathers any necessary evidence for City code violation case hearings; research legal description of property, property ownership, and ordinances; makes oral presentations if called to testify in Court.
  • Responsible for ensuring accommodations taxes are paid and issuing notices of violations. 
  • Follows up on inspection results, clearing the property and recording the date of abatement or issuing an ordinance summons; prepares and presents a case to the Municipal Judge; follows up on court-ordered abatement.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

  • Must have clear and effective communication across a diverse group, including co-workers, Newberry citizens, Newberry County, contractors, engineers, and architects, as well as industrial and commercial representatives. 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail as well as time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines; ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, City Works, and other related software.


Minimum Education, Certifications, and Experience:

Associate degree in business, accounting, project management, or related field.

At least two years of related work experience.

 

Preferred Education, Certifications, and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or related field. 

Three to six years of experience in code enforcement and/or business licensing. 

ICC International Property Maintenance and Housing Code (IPMC)

Work Schedule and Overtime:

Monday through Friday, typical hours are 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, with occasional overtime on Saturdays.

Physical Demands/Requirements: 

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer or driving/traveling in a vehicle. 

Work in an outside environment and meet the physical demands of the position.

Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.

Must be able to stand or walk for long periods of time, climb, kneel, crouch, and balance. 

Performs other duties as needed. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

The City of Newberry’s Performance Indicators

Engagement – Constantly offers a high level of service to citizens/co-workers; helps new employees learn and grow; shows interest in work and doesn’t complain about work; anticipates work and begins work without asking questions or waiting to be told what to do. 

Quality of Work – Strives to see projects to completion, strives to eliminate errors; accuracy is a priority; consistently meets expected job goals and the end results are dependable; takes initiative and finds all information needed to make decisions without seeking help from others; capable of completing quality work while dealing with obstacles and deadlines. 

People Skills – The extent to which the employee works well with others to achieve a common goal; offering support to co-workers, works actively to resolve conflicts; carries the fair share of the workload; displays “can do” attitude. 

Energy – Does not display negative behaviors; shows good attendance and little to no tardiness; displays positive image through language and demeanor.

Results – Able to reach decisions; takes thoughtful approach when considering options; seeks input from others; makes difficult decisions; strives to understand contributing factors to errors; works to resolve complex situations.

Influence – Provides strong leadership; sets a good example; skilled decision maker, motivator, encourager of team.

Technical Abilities – Knows the skills, procedures, codes, and safety regulations; knows how the job fits into the department and affects others; capable of completing individual tasks as directed without delay or asking for direction and assistance. 


The City of Newberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This organization is inclusive and diverse and encourages all people that meet the required qualifications to apply.