Often, people are confused by code enforcement, and this new series is an attempt to remedy that. In each story, we will answer some common questions about code enforcement, and if you have a question you would like answered, please submit it to cwomble@newszap.com.

What is code enforcement?

The California Association of Code Enforcement Officers (CACEO) defines code enforcement as “the prevention, detection, investigation and enforcement of violations of statutes or ordinances regulating public health, safety, and welfare, public works, business activities and consumer protection, building standards, land-use, or municipal affairs.”

What is a code enforcement officer?

Code enforcement officers are responsible for inspecting property in an effort to ensure a safe, sanitary and clean city. CACEO states, “A code enforcement officer is a sworn or non-sworn inspector, officer or investigator, employed by a city, or county, or city and county, who possesses specialized training in, and whose primary duties are the prevention, detection, investigation, and enforcement of violations of laws regulating public nuisance, public health, safety, and welfare, public works, business activities and consumer protection, building standards, land-use, or municipal affairs.”

The goal of code enforcement is to be proactive and responsive to the needs of the citizens of Okeechobee while enforcing city ordinances. Compliance with local ordinances can help reduce vandalism, deter crime and maintain property values while ensuring that our neighborhoods are clean, safe places to live, work and play.