Code inspectors require consent or administrative inspection warrants to enter non-public areas in their capacity as code inspectors. See AGO 2002-27. Constitutional prohibitions on unreasonable searches and seizures require this, subject to various exceptions. Administrative inspection warrants are governed by sections 933.20 through 933.30, Florida Statutes. Owner-occupied family residences are exempt from the provisions of […]
A stranger in your backyard would likely raise your suspicion. However, if that stranger was driving a county or city-owned vehicle and carrying a clipboard, you might dismiss that person as having the right to be there on official business. That is likely not the case, and if that person is a code enforcement officer, […]
By Lenore T. Brakefield, Florida Local Government Law Attorney Do you like your neighbors? Hopefully, you do, but if not, have you ever considered filing an anonymous code enforcement complaint against them? Maybe you have a legitimate complaint, or perhaps you want to file an anonymous complaint for other reasons such as spite or revenge. […]
By Cameron G. Woodward, Florida Land Use & Zoning, Code Enforcement Attorney Many, if not all, visitors and residents in Florida have at one point enjoyed a meal or tropical beverage relaxing under a Chickee Hut, also known as a rethatch “Tiki Hut” or “Tiki Bar.” Such huts have become synonymous with living in paradise, […]
By Lenore T. Brakefield, Florida Government Relations and Community Association Law Attorney The number one rule is: Do not ignore this notice. The notice of violation provides the roadmap of what is to come. This roadmap is important because each jurisdiction has its own process for handling code enforcement issues. Even though Chapter 162, […]
