What is required for a Code Inspector to issue a citation?

For a Code Inspector to issue a citation, it is essential that they conduct a personal investigation that establishes reasonable cause for the alleged violation. This requirement ensures that the inspector has firsthand knowledge or sufficient evidence to support the citation rather than relying solely on secondhand information or complaints. By conducting their own investigation, the inspector can verify the validity of the claim, understand the context of the situation, and confirm that a violation has indeed occurred according to the relevant codes or regulations. This approach promotes accountability and accuracy in the enforcement process, as it prevents the issuance of citations based merely on unverified reports or assumptions.

Other choices, while they may contribute to an inspector’s overall understanding of a situation, do not meet the legal threshold necessary for issuing a citation. For example, a written complaint from a neighbor, witness testimony, or visual evidence can be important but do not replace the need for the inspector's direct investigation, which is crucial for establishing reasonable cause.