Code Enforcement & Rental Licensing Inspector

City of Savage•Savage, MN

About The Position

This technical position is responsible for enforcing zoning, health, safety, nuisance, and property maintenance codes, as well as administering the City’s rental licensing program. The role involves conducting inspections, investigating complaints, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and ordinances, and maintaining accurate documentation. This individual contributor will also review rental license applications, inspect rental properties, and verify ongoing compliance with rental housing standards to support community safety, housing quality, and livability.

Requirements

Associates degree in a related field and at least one year of experience in code enforcement, rental licensing, housing, planning, zoning, construction management, law enforcement or a related field involving public contact; OR any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work.
Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
Strong interpersonal communication skills with the ability to explain complex regulatory requirements clearly and calmly, and to professionally manage and de-escalate difficult interactions.
Ability to develop positive and professional relationships and collaborate with organizations, both internal and external.
Working knowledge of codes related to zoning, nuisance, property maintenance, health, and safety.
Knowledge of rental housing codes and licensing processes, including inspection procedures and housing standards.
Ability to interpret and apply city ordinances and housing regulations accurately.
Skilled in conducting field inspections and collecting reliable documentation (photos, notes, measurements).
Familiarity with legal descriptions, zoning maps, and property research tools.
Proficient with digital inspection tools and case management/licensing software.
Strong written communication skills for inspection reports, violation notices, and correspondence.
Ability to manage multiple inspections and rental cases independently and prioritize daily tasks.
Excellent customer service and problem-solving skills, with the ability to verbally explain complex regulations to diverse audiences.
Detail-oriented and capable of maintaining organized, accurate records.
Ability to identify and suggest technical improvements to rental licensing and code enforcement processes.
Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and impartiality in all enforcement actions.
Commitment to equity and inclusion in community engagement and enforcement practices.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in planning, housing, environmental health, construction management, law enforcement or a related field.
Certification in code enforcement, housing inspection, rental licensing (e.g., ICC Property Maintenance and Housing Inspector) or building official limited.
Proficiency in a second language that is commonly spoken in the community.
Ability to work evenings and attend special events, which may be on weekends, as needed.

Responsibilities

Perform proactive and complaint-based inspections related to zoning, nuisance, and property maintenance violations.
Conduct rental housing inspections as part of the City’s rental licensing program, ensuring units meet health and safety codes.
Review and process rental license applications and renewals for completeness and compliance with program requirements.
Maintain accurate records of inspections, violations, correspondence, and licensing status.
Issue warnings, notices of violation, and citations in accordance with enforcement policies.
Respond to inquiries from landlords, tenants, and property owners regarding licensing requirements and inspection outcomes.
Monitor unlicensed rental properties and initiate enforcement actions when applicable.
Document findings with detailed notes, photographs, and applicable code references.
Assist with the scheduling and coordination of inspections for rental properties.
Track rental license expirations and notify owners of renewal deadlines.
Suggest improvements to code language or enforcement practices.
Utilize case software to manage inspection records and workflow.
Prepare technical reports, summaries, or documentation for legal proceedings.
Stay current on local housing codes, rental licensing standards, and inspection best practices.
Recommend updates to rental licensing procedures and checklists as needed.
Perform other related duties as apparent or assigned.