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Code Enforcement Jobs in Lake County, IL (NOW HIRING)

Code Enforcement Officer

O Fallon, IL ยท On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Code Enforcement Officers enforce city ordinance and property maintenance code violations for the Community Development Department in a technical and administrative manner. Officers are responsible ...

Code Enforcement Officer

O Fallon, IL ยท On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Code Enforcement Officers enforce city ordinance and property maintenance code violations for the Community Development Department in a technical and administrative manner. Officers are responsible ...

Fire Marshal

Geneva, IL

$108K - $152K/yr

This position reports to the Fire Chief and provides oversight of fire prevention programs, code enforcement, inspections, plan review, fire investigations, public education, and life safety ...

Fire Marshal

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$108K - $152K/yr

This position reports to the Fire Chief and provides oversight of fire prevention programs, code enforcement, inspections, plan review, fire investigations, public education, and life safety ...

Be Seen First

Conduct code enforcement inspections * Communicate issues and code deficiencies to clients and explain code-compliant options * Advise property owners, contractors, designers, and builders regarding ...

Be Seen First

Perform code enforcement inspections. * Provide municipal and private industry code research and reports as assigned. * Attend project meetings about plan reviews or inspections. * Meet with clients ...

Corporation Counsel

West Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$143K - $200K/yr

Land Use, Code Enforcement, and Economic Development Provide legal support for zoning, annexation, subdivision, planned developments, special uses, variations, development agreements, and related ...

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Code Enforcement information

See Lake County, IL salary details

$27.2K

$57.2K

$89.7K

How much do code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for code enforcement in Lake County, IL is $57,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,800.00 and $65,800.00 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 cities near Lake County, IL are hiring for Code Enforcement jobs? Cities near Lake County, IL with the most Code Enforcement job openings:
Infographic showing various Code Enforcement job openings in Lake County, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,195 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Code Enforcement Officer

Code Enforcement Officer

City of O'Fallon, IL

O Fallon, IL โ€ข On-site

$24 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Department: Planning and Zoning
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay: $24-$25/hr
Job Summary:
Code Enforcement Officers enforce city ordinance and property maintenance code violations for the Community Development Department in a technical and administrative manner. Officers are responsible for investigating nuisance complaints such as tall grass, derelict vehicles, rubbish and garbage complaints, etc. Duties also include following up on citizen requests, assisting in establishing code enforcement compliance plans for active cases and providing pro-active code enforcement. Additional duties include (but are not limited to): performing property maintenance occupancy inspections on primarily residential properties, and documenting inspection results. Assisting other inspectors and code enforcement officers as needed on higher level cases.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.
  • Investigates citizen complaints concerning municipal building code violations, nuisance violations, property maintenance, zoning regulations, and fire safety issues.
  • Inspects properties for violations to determine if complaint is valid and determines if any corrective action is required.
  • Prepare abatement cases; prepare notices and required correspondence and documents.
  • Ensure code enforcement actions are logged and records are kept in compliance with department regulations.
  • Respond in writing, by phone, and in person with residents, businesses and others regarding complaints and follow-up activities taken to resolve issues.
  • Assists property owners in achieving voluntary compliance by recommending corrective actions.
  • Conducts follow-up inspections to determine if corrective action has been taken and is compliant with municipal building codes and ordinances. When corrective action has not occurred, initiates court action.
  • May appear in court, as needed, on enforcement actions and may also work with the City Attorney on enforcement issues.
  • Confer and coordinate with other agencies and departments, including Public Works, Fire, and Police, on the investigation and disposition of nuisance, zoning, pest infestation, noise, smoke, vehicle, litter and related violations.
  • Conducts on-site occupancy inspections of single and multi-family residential properties for occupancy permits to ensure compliance with adopted International Code Council (ICC) Building Code, ICC Residential Code, ICC Property Maintenance Code and other related City Codes.
  • Documents each inspection according to the inspection checklist and uses computer program to input code violations in a written report.
  • Maintain files and records related to citations and violations; prepare a variety of written reports, memoranda and correspondence.
  • Input and retrieve a variety of information using a computer terminal, tablet or other electronic device.
  • Coordinate with other public and private agencies to abate public nuisances.
  • As assigned, assists in the inspections for other inspectors in different discipline areas (electrical and building & zoning) when the inspectors are unable to personally conduct the inspection.
  • Performs various other duties and functions as required or assigned within area of expertise or scope of the position.
  • Will need to traverse uneven terrain and be exposed to all types of weather elements in carrying out enforcement duties.

Job Related Essential Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of basic principles and procedures of record keeping
  • Modern office procedures and methods including computers
  • Effective oral and written communication methods
  • Proficient computer skills and Microsoft Office suite of programs.
  • Negotiation and conflict resolution techniques.
  • Ability to interpret a variety of codes, laws, ordinances, regulations and other information furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • Correctly prioritize cases and exercise sound judgment.

Supervision Received:
This position works under the general supervision of the Code Official.
Supervision Exercised:
None.
Working Conditions:
Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:
Ability to work in a standard office environment as well as out in the field in an inspection site environment. Essential functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for sitting, standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, and stooping for prolonged periods of time. (1) Mobility: requires the ability to exert a minimal amount of physical effort in order to lift, carry and move files, documents and other items in an office environment and exert/perform moderate to strenuous levels of physical effort for extended periods of time in an inspection site environment; frequent use of keyboard; frequent sitting for long periods of time; occasional bending or squatting. (2) Lifting: Ability to lift up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 25 pounds on occasion. (3) Vision: constant use of overall vision; frequent reading and close-up work; occasional color and depth perception. (4) Dexterity: frequent repetitive motion; frequent writing; frequent grasping, holding, and reaching. (5) Hearing/Talking: frequent hearing and talking; in person and on the phone or radio. (6) Emotional/Psychological: frequent decision-making and concentration; frequent public and/or coworker contact; frequent working alone. (7) Environmental: frequent exposure to noise and dust; occasional exposure to fumes, chemicals and heavy equipment; work at heights; inspecting in confined areas; field work performed in various weather conditions.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
  1. Associates degree or equivalent (trade school) with training in property maintenance and inspection; and:
  2. At least two-to-three years of related work experience in the construction industry, home inspection industry, fire service, or law enforcement
  3. Other equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
  4. ICC Property Maintenance Certification is required within one (1) year of hiring.
  5. Valid driver's license.