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Code Enforcement Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

This position performs land use permit application review and inspection work to assist in providing uniform enforcement for county codes; and investigates potential land use violations. Administers ...

Supervisor of Inspections

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$75K - $112K/yr

A minimum of three (3) years of experience in property maintenance, code enforcement and/or building inspection. * Current Certifications as a Property Maintenance & Housing Inspector and Zoning ...

Supervisor of Inspections

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$75K - $112K/yr

A minimum of three (3) years of experience in property maintenance, code enforcement and/or building inspection. Current Certifications as a Property Maintenance & Housing Inspector and Zoning ...

General police functions, include but are not limited to: protecting life and property, general patrol, criminal law and traffic code enforcement, city ordinance enforcement, and maintaining public ...

Issues citations for violations of County ordinances and Wisconsin Administrative Code related to ... Analyzes site and application data to determine regulatory compliance and recommend enforcement ...

Fire Chief

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

Oversees all activities of the department for adherence to established policies and work methods; assures enforcement of statutes, fire codes and local ordinances. * Plans, reviews, and coordinates ...

Fire Chief

Onalaska, WI

$114K - $149K/yr

Oversees all activities of the department for adherence to established policies and work methods; assures enforcement of statutes, fire codes and local ordinances. Plans, reviews, and coordinates ...

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Code Enforcement information

See Wisconsin salary details

$28.8K

$60.5K

$94.9K

How much do code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for code enforcement in Wisconsin is $60,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $69,600.00 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Code Enforcement jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Code Enforcement jobs in Wisconsin? For Code Enforcement jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Code Enforcement jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Code Enforcement job openings:
Infographic showing various Code Enforcement job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,526 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Housing Enforcement Inspector

Housing Enforcement Inspector

City of Manitowoc

Manitowoc, WI

$29.04 - $33.19/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Thank you for considering the City of Manitowoc in your career search. It's a great City to live in and to work in. Watch this video to learn more.

The City of Manitowoc is an equal opportunity employer, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. The City of Manitowoc ONLY accepts online applications via the link below for current openings.

* We do not accept paper applications or emailed resumes. ************************ Summary of Job This position performs a variety of technical duties in support of the City's code enforcement program; monitors and enforces a variety of applicable ordinances, codes, and regulations, including state and federal regulations related to zoning, building, general nuisances, health and safety, right-of-way encroachments and other matters of public concern; and serves as a resource and provides information on city regulations to property owners, residents, businesses, the general public, and other city departments. Responsibilities Perform a variety of field and office work in support of the City's local code enforcement program; enforce compliance with city ordinances and state and federal regulations, including those pertaining to zoning, flood, land use, building, general nuisance, health and safety, right of way encroachments and other matters of public concern.

Receive and respond to citizen complaints and reports from other agencies and departments on alleged violations of city codes and ordinances; interview complainant and witnesses; conduct investigations and provide recommendations and requirements for resolution. Conduct field investigations; inspect properties for violations; attempt to make contact at the residence or business in order to resolve violation; issue and post warning notices, notices of violation, corrective notices, orders to comply, and related documentation for code violations; schedule and perform all follow-up functions to gain compliance including letters, inspections, calls, meetings, discussions, and negotiations to ensure compliance with appropriate codes and ordinances; issue citations and notices of violation as necessary. Prepare evidence in support of legal actions taken by the City; appear in court as necessary; testify at hearings and in court proceedings as required.

Maintain accurate documentation and case files on all investigations, inspections, enforcement actions, and other job-related activities including accurate and detailed information regarding code enforcement activity to substantiate violations; take and maintain photographs. Prepare a variety of written reports, memos, and correspondence related to enforcement activities. Evaluate problem areas and/or ordinance violations; determine proper method to resolve violations.

Attend committee meetings and serve as a resource to other City departments, the general public, and outside agencies in the enforcement of city, state and local ordinances enforced by the city; provide research and documentation for meetings; interpret and explain municipal codes and ordinances to members of the general public, contractors, business owners, and other interested groups in the field, over the counter, and on the telephone. Operate computer to enter, process, and acquire data relative to complaints, inspection sites, and effective code enforcement; research complaints. Locate vacant residences and businesses; secure buildings with proper materials as necessary; post the property as necessary; check vacant buildings regularly for transient activity, graffiti, and other forms of vandalism.

Qualifications Education:Associate Degree Consideration will be given to candidates possessing a combination of formal training, specific courses, or education along with considerable experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities for the position as determined by management. Experience: Minimum of one-year experience involving a high level of public contact including some experience dealing with the public in an enforcement, inspection, investigation or customer service capacity. Experience that includes the enforcement of municipal codes is highly desirable.

Computer skills including current Microsoft Office Suite and department related software. Certifications/Licenses:Must possess a UDC Building Inspector Certification within one year of hire date. Must possess and maintain a valid Wisconsin driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with internal and external entities with whom the position interacts. Performs described Essential Functions and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce quantity of work which consistently meets established standards and expectations.

Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to the Deputy Fire Chief or his designee with respect to vacation time and leave requests.

Strives to anticipate work to be accomplished, and initiates proper and acceptable action for the completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction. Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches issues, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment.

Accepts supervisory instruction and direction and strives to meet the goals and objectives of same. Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation intra- and inter-departmentally. Shares knowledge with Mayor and City Council, and co-workers for mutual benefit.

Contributes to maintaining high morale among all employees. Tactfully and effectively handles requests, suggestions and complaints in order to establish and maintain good will. Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image.

Plans and organizes daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort.

Estimates expected time of completion of work elements and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Attends required meetings, planning sessions and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.

********************** The City anticipates filling these positions pending Committee approval and funding. THE CITY OF MANITOWOC PARTICIPATES IN E-VERIFY. FOR INFORMATION ABOUT E-VERIFY, PLEASE VISIT http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

The City of Manitowoc is a qualifying Public Service Loan Forgiveness organization.