There are other jurisdictions here that are more pro active in finding violations (I understand) but my county seems pretty easy going on small projects.
It is mostly a complaint driven process.
The tax man is very vigilant tho.
What we call code enforcement is really run through the zoning department not the building department and they spend as much time on junk cars parked in the yard and unmowed lawns as they do on unpermitted activity.
They will also be the ones who take the "multifamily in a SFD" complaint. (and that is almost always complaint driven)
During the cutbacks some municipalities laid those people off and put building inspectors in those jobs, simply to preserve licensed staff but I understand that may be over.
It was not a popular decision for senior multi license inspectors who were suddenly standing in an unkempt lawn with a yard stick measuring weeds but being laid off was worse.
