Code Enforcement Officer

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 interested in 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. This recruitment will also establish an 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 serve as a resource and provide information on City regulations to property owners, residents, businesses, the general public, and other City departments and divisions.

Please  for the complete classification.

Interested? Apply here!

• 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:

High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. An Associate’s Degree in a related field is desirable.

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.

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.

A conditional offer is contingent upon successful completion of a Live Scan (FBI/DOJ), physical examination, and DMV record review.

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…