Code enforcement can build trust or create friction. The difference is in the approach.
In our webinar, Proven Code Enforcement Strategies for Municipal Leaders, Bernard A. Pita, CEP, Director of Code Compliance, shared practical ways to improve outcomes. The key, he explained, is shifting from punishment to partnership.
“Personal contact means a lot. You can explain the violation in plain English instead of sending something impersonal like a notice right off the bat.”
Here are four strategies that make that shift possible.
1. Start with an assessment
Many cities haven't reviewed their code processes in years. Without a baseline, it's hard to know what's causing delays or resident frustration.
A complete assessment identifies:
- Which ordinances need updating
- Where workflows break down
- Whether staffing matches demand
- What residents experience
This reveals whether you need better communication, updated ordinances, or additional capacity.
2. Lead with education
Residents respond better when they understand violations. Instead of leading with a notice, start with a conversation. Make personal contact before issuing formal citations.
Try using effective approaches like:
- In-person explanations in plain language
- Clear materials on common violations
- "Code compliance cards" to thank residents who maintain their properties
- Videos showing what code enforcement does day-to-day
"Personal contact means a lot," Pita explains. "You can explain the violation in plain English instead of sending something impersonal like a notice right off the bat."
When enforcement feels like a service instead of a penalty, compliance improves naturally.
3. Use technology to extend capacity
Adding full-time staff means salary, benefits, and long-term commitments. Technology adds capacity without the overhead.
Tools like virtual inspections, AI-assisted prioritization, and mobile software let officers handle cases in real time from the field. Pita worked with one municipality that shifted officers from 50% administrative work to 90% field time using these tools.
4. Set clear rental standards
Short-term rentals create friction. Residents want enforcement. Property owners want revenue. The answer isn't choosing sides — it's creating standards both groups can follow.
What to require:
- Registration for all rentals
- Emergency contact on file
- Business tax receipt
- Welcome packet with local rules
"We provide packets to landlords explaining violations so they can be accountable and make whoever they're renting accountable as well," Pita notes.
This reduces confusion and makes enforcement more consistent.
Supplement with hybrid staffing
Growing fast or dealing with staff transitions? Keep your core team and add contract officers during peak periods. This gives you flexibility without permanent headcount increases.
Contract officers train on your processes and software, work directly with your internal team, and provide support without long-term commitments.
"We collaborate with the municipality and code team," Pita explains. "We train on their processes, learn their software, and become part of the city."
See the strategies in action
Code enforcement works best when it builds partnership, not resentment. Starting with a clear assessment, leading with education, using technology to extend your capacity, and setting transparent standards —these strategies help cities improve compliance while strengthening community trust.
Watch Proven Code Enforcement Strategies for Municipal Leaders to see real examples of how municipalities are implementing these approaches, including assessment frameworks, outreach programs, and hybrid staffing models that deliver results.
