What is the potential consequence of code enforcement officers exercising enforcement discretion?

The potential consequence of code enforcement officers exercising enforcement discretion is that it can lead to inconsistencies in enforcement across similar cases. Enforcement discretion allows code enforcement officers to make judgments based on the unique circumstances of each situation, which can result in different decisions for similar code violations. For example, one officer may choose to issue a warning for a minor infraction, while another may impose a fine. This variability can create a perception of inequity in how laws are applied and can sometimes lead to disputes about fairness among the public and those subject to enforcement actions.

In contrast, increased uniformity in code application, complete elimination of minor violations, and mandatory training for all officers do not directly arise from the exercise of discretion. In fact, enforcement discretion is often seen as a way to tailor responses to the specific context rather than impose a one-size-fits-all solution, which could lead to the perception of inconsistencies.