Responsible AI in Code Enforcement: A Governance-First Approach

Artificial intelligence (AI) is steadily transforming the way local governments deliver services. As agencies begin to experiment with AI across a range of civic responsibilities, code enforcement has emerged as a compelling area for innovation. Digital tools empower communities to operate more efficiently and intelligently, helping ensure properties are properly maintained, local ordinances are upheld, and public safety remains a top priority.

Yet many agencies continue to face growing caseloads, complex enforcement requirements, and aging, disconnected systems that slow down compliance efforts. In this context, the question facing municipal leaders is not simply whether AI can support code enforcement, but how it should. At Forerunner, we believe the answer lies in a governance-first framework.

Core Principles for AI in Code Enforcement

Responsible AI implementation begins with the recognition that the people enforcing local codes - inspectors, administrators, and planning staff - are stewards of civic trust.  

Human-in-the-loop design: We build tools that handle the administrative "heavy lifting" - like document parsing and data extraction - while ensuring that final decision-making power remains with the official. Our goal is to augment human expertise with better data, giving public servants more time to focus on complex, high-impact community work.

Verifiable & traceable logic: We are committed to ensuring AI-generated outputs - from flagged errors on an Elevation Certificate to draft violation letters - are transparent and traceable. As we continue to build Forerunner, we are prioritizing the ability to surface the specific data and regulatory references used, providing officials with the context necessary to verify accuracy and maintain a documented trail for every decision.

Data integrity & security: AI is only as reliable as its foundation. We prioritize the centralization of clean, verified geospatial data and records before applying automation. By building on a foundation of structured, accurate information, we ensure that AI-driven workflows provide a true representation of community risk.

Equity & accessibility: We believe AI innovation must be accessible to every community, regardless of size or capabilities. Our tools are designed to empower resource-constrained municipalities, providing the modern digital infrastructure they need to overcome capacity gaps and build safer, more resilient communities.‍

Practical AI Tools for the Enforcement Workflow

Forerunner serves as a centralized platform for the built environment, offering purpose-built tools that turn unstructured data into actionable compliance.

AI Assistant for the Field: Our AI Assistant helps teams complete complex inspection forms faster by transforming high-level field notes and observations into structured records. This reduces manual data entry and ensures consistent documentation across the department.

AI-Powered Summaries & Photo Analysis: To speed up reporting, AI analyzes property photos to identify potential violations and variations from standard records. It generates concise summaries that allow staff to identify issues at a glance rather than sifting through hundreds of files.

Intelligent Letter and File Generation: Administrative overhead is a primary cause of enforcement backlogs. Our platform automatically drafts specific letters - such as code violation notices - directly from record data, referencing the exact regulatory sections needed.

AI-Powered Error Detection: To ensure accurate, audit-ready data, Forerunner leverages machine learning to flag inconsistencies and clerical errors in critical documents, such as Elevation Certificates, before they lead to rework or delays.

‍Trusted Infrastructure for Operational Success

As Forerunner evolves, we continue to prioritize transparency and control. All AI features are optional and can be toggled on or off at any time, allowing your organization to scale adoption at its own pace. This infrastructure is supported by SOC 2 Type II compliance and regular penetration testing to safeguard community data.

By designing tools that uphold professional standards and adapt to the real-world complexity of municipal work, we believe AI can contribute meaningfully to responsive, efficient, and equitable local government. At Forerunner, our focus remains on how technology can best serve the public servants who protect our communities every day.

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Reach out to support@withforerunner.com to learn how Forerunner can support your community.