Municipal Law

Municipal codes and municipal code enforcement vary by city and by county. Navigating municipal codes can be difficult when it comes to disputes in areas such as zoning, public health codes, public safety codes, or unpermitted repairs.

Additionally, as a business, you may face issues such as mixed land use, environmental impact studies, land development, public hearings, and appeals.

At Michael Garcia, P.A., we represent clients throughout Florida with their code violations or municipal issues they face personally or with their business.

As a current city attorney and special magistrate attorney, Michael Garcia has a deep understanding of how municipalities work.

Code Violations apply to both residential and commercial property. The violations can include the following:

• 40 and 50-year recertifications
• Unpermitted work
• Unlicensed work
• Permits after the fact
• Unsafe structures and Public Nuisances

Please note that a code violation can become a lien against your property, which can be foreclosed on by the Municipality.

If you are a resident, business owner, or an out-of-town landowner or property owner and have received a citation from the city for violating a municipal code and you feel it is unjust, it may be in your best interest to contact an attorney. At Michael Garcia, P.A., we will protect your rights as a property owner and work in your defense. Whether a hearing or appeal, we will vigorously pursue a positive resolution for your case.

Administrative Hearing Representation

Of course, the best way to avoid large fines, civil infractions and misdemeanors is to come into compliance with the code. However, once the issue moves to the administrative proceedings, petitions for warrant stage or if a summary abatement has been filed, it may be in your best interest to have legal representation.

Administrative enforcement is a nonjudicial hearing for nuisance abatement. This is your opportunity to be heard and to accurately and effectively state your case. We can help assess whether or not you are being singled out and then work with you to decide the best course of action for the most expedient remedy to the issue.

When facing administrative civil penalty cases, for example, where the county or city wants to charge the property owner hundreds or thousands of dollars a day for a continuing violation, contacting an attorney can be paramount in achieving a faster and more cost-effective remedy.

Larger cities can use code enforcement tools to eliminate blight and bring homeowners and business owners into compliance. But cities also generate revenue from code enforcement and noncompliance, so it serves the city to act aggressively.

If you feel your county or city is abusing their discretion and turning infractions into major code enforcement violations, contacting us is the first step in ensuring your rights are protected. Call today at 754-254-1100 or contact us online.