What is used to keep track of observations made during code enforcement inspections?

Field notes are integral to maintaining accurate records of observations made during code enforcement inspections. These notes allow enforcement officers to document their findings in real time, capturing essential details such as the condition of the property, specific violations observed, and any pertinent conversations with property owners or occupants.

By using field notes, inspectors ensure that all observations are logged in a manner that can support subsequent actions, such as issuing citations or formal notices. This documentation aids in building a comprehensive account of each inspection, which can be crucial for legal proceedings or follow-up inspections. The information gathered is utilized for tracking compliance, assessing patterns of violations, and providing evidence if the case escalates to a legal context.

Other options, while relevant to the overall code enforcement process, do not serve the same immediate, informal, and observational purpose as field notes. Documentation can refer to a wide range of records, citations are formal charges issued after observations, and formal notices are official communications sent to inform violators of the need to correct issues. Field notes specifically hone in on the observations recorded during the enforcement officer's inspection activities.