Job Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, responsible for the enforcement of the City zoning ordinances and all related regulations. Conducts review of building projects and proposed signs for zoning compliance. Inspects possible zoning violations, including signs; and responds to complaints and inquiries from citizens.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Reviews development proposals, construction plans, plot plans, and subdivision applications to determine compliance with zoning, signage, and language codes.


Reviews and approves or denies zoning use permits, sign permits, certificates of occupancy, and other zoning-related authorizations.


Enforces municipal zoning codes, sign ordinances, and landscaping regulations and prepares necessary documentation for enforcement actions.


Explains and interprets zoning and land use regulations to various stakeholders.


Investigates zoning complaints submitted by citizens, elected officials, and internal departments.


Follows up with property owners to ensure corrective actions are taken and compliance is achieved.


Attends and participates in various board meetings and with community members as needed.


Processes applications for special exceptions, conditional uses, and variances after obtaining appropriate approvals from governing boards.


Assists the Law Department with research and preparation for zoning-related court hearings; may appear in court or before boards as a witness or complainant on zoning violations.


Uses zoning databases, spreadsheets, GIS software, and related tools to manage data, generate reports, and perform research.


Assists with public hearing notifications and prepares supporting materials as required.


Prepares and submits routine and ad-hoc reports on zoning enforcement activity to municipal leadership and planning bodies.


Performs field inspections of properties, active construction sites, and signs to ensure compliance with zoning and land use regulations.


Conducts final inspections in conjunction with City Building and Engineering departments for permit closures and certificate issuance.


Maintains accurate records of work performed.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of local zoning codes, laws and ordinances.


Familiarity with land use, signage, and landscaping regulations and best practices.


Ability to enforce codes, ordinances, rules, etc.


Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.


Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.


Proficiency in zoning software, Microsoft Office, GIS, and other relevant applications.


Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications.


Ability to work independently and establish effective relationships with stakeholders, internal staff, and the general public.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position consists of primarily light work, requiring the incumbent to exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, or 10 pounds (or less) of force frequently in order to lift/carry, push/pull or otherwise move objects. The job usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree; however, if the employee frequently uses arm and/or leg controls which require him/her to exert forces greater than 10 pounds and the employee sits most of the time, the job should be rated for Light Work. A description of the specific physical requirements associated with this position is maintained on file in the Human Resources office for review upon request.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

This position uses logic and/or scientific thinking to define problems, collect information, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, devise and implement policies and regulations, and to manage and coordinate multiple programs or projects. A description of the specific mental requirements associated with this position is maintained on file in the Human Resources office for review upon request.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from a two-year (2) college program or completion of two years (60 hours) of coursework toward a four-year degree from a CHEA accredited college or university

OR

three (3) years of experience in zoning, signs, landscape design, or construction.


Must obtain an ICC Certification as a Zoning Inspector within the 1-year probationary period.


Ability to obtain an appropriate Tennessee driver's license.


Ability to become a Municipal Enforcement Officer (unarmed) within the probationary period.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference may be given to applicants with experience in landscape design, experience in the sign industry, or zoning experience.

HYBRID WORK ELIGIBILITY

This position is ineligible for hybrid work.