Code enforcement officers are a ‘dying breed’ in Maine. That’s a problem.

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • June 24, 2026

By law, every municipality must employ a code officer to enforce state and local ordinances on shoreland zoning, land use, plumbing, waste disposal and building codes. They’re responsible for reviewing permits, conducting inspections, investigating complaints and making sure construction meets safety standards. Like so many industries, though, code enforcement is facing a mass exodus of workers as baby boomers retire. That’s where regionalization comes in. the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments has developed a model that will soon be replicated across the state as part of a three-year pilot program.