In what scenarios might a code enforcement officer issue a citation?

A code enforcement officer typically issues a citation when there are violations discovered during inspections or follow-ups that have not been resolved. This reflects the officer's responsibility to enforce compliance with local codes and regulations. When a property owner does not correct a violation identified in a prior inspection, issuing a citation serves as a formal notice that action is necessary to address the issue legally. This process is crucial for maintaining community standards and ensuring that property owners adhere to the established codes.

In the context of the other choices: noise complaints may require investigation but do not automatically lead to citations unless they violate specific noise ordinances. Failure to maintain a garden might be a concern, but unless it violates a specific code (for instance, landscaping ordinances), it may not warrant a citation. Issues related to building permits could lead to citations, but this is contingent on specific violations regarding permits or approvals that must already be documented. Therefore, while there are various scenarios in which a citation might be issued, unresolved violations from inspections directly align with the officer's duties and authority.