What does "due diligence" entail in code enforcement practices?

"Due diligence" in code enforcement practices refers to conducting thorough research and assessment before taking enforcement action. This principle is crucial because it ensures that any actions taken by code enforcement officials are based on accurate and comprehensive information about the situation at hand. It involves reviewing relevant laws, guidelines, and previously documented cases, as well as assessing the specific conditions and compliance levels of properties.

By exercising due diligence, code enforcement officers can identify the most appropriate and effective actions to address code violations, ensuring that they uphold legal standards and protect community interests. This careful approach also helps minimize the potential for errors, ensuring that enforcement actions are justified and supported by evidence. This level of diligence fosters transparency and fairness in code enforcement processes, which is essential for maintaining public trust.

In contrast, conducting minimal research could lead to uninformed or arbitrary decisions, while organizing community events or issuing random fines does not align with the principles of thorough investigation and justified enforcement actions that characterize proper due diligence.