What is an "administrative search warrant" used for?

An "administrative search warrant" is specifically designed for regulatory purposes rather than for investigating crimes in the same manner as a traditional search warrant. This type of warrant allows authorities to conduct inspections of properties, businesses, or records to ensure compliance with various administrative regulations, such as health and safety codes or zoning laws. The key characteristic of an administrative search warrant is that it does not require the typical standard of probable cause needed for criminal warrants. Instead, it can be issued with a lower threshold of justification, reflecting the government's interest in regulating certain activities and ensuring public welfare.

This authority is often used in contexts such as health inspections, building code inspections, and other regulatory compliance checks, where the focus is more on fulfilling statutory duties than on pursuing criminal charges. The process still ensures a level of oversight and protection for individuals' rights, but the expectations regarding probable cause differ significantly from those applicable in criminal investigations.