Code enforcement has a process — and you have a hearing
Local code enforcement in Florida operates under the Local Government Code Enforcement Boards Act (Chapter 162). Before fines and liens attach, you're generally entitled to notice of the alleged violation, a reasonable time to fix it, and a hearing before a code enforcement board or special magistrate. You have the right to appear and present your side.
How fines become liens
If a violation isn't corrected, the board can impose administrative fines and costs, which can become a lien on the property and, in some cases, other property the violator owns (Fla. Stat. § 162.09). Those liens are recorded and generally must be addressed when the property is sold or refinanced.
Daily fines and the right to reduce them
Fines can accrue daily, which is how a small violation becomes a large number. Many local governments have a process to request reduction or release of a code lien, especially once the violation is cured — worth asking the county or city code office about.
Selling with open violations
You don't have to bring the property into compliance before selling to us. We buy with the violations in place, and the title company researches any recorded code liens and handles payoff from the proceeds at closing. See selling a house with code violations. For the specifics of your case, contact your county or city code office or an attorney.
A note from Chris: I’m Chris Moore, and I’m not a lawyer — this is not legal advice. It’s general information my team researched from the official sources cited on this page (the Florida Statutes and the references listed below), and laws change. For help with a specific legal matter you should talk to a licensed attorney. Need a good one? Reach out to me here and I’ll gladly share my references.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get a hearing before code fines are imposed?
Generally yes. Under Chapter 162 you're entitled to notice, time to cure, and a hearing before a code enforcement board or special magistrate.
How do code fines become a lien?
Unpaid administrative fines and costs can be recorded as a lien on the property (§ 162.09), which must usually be addressed at sale or refinance.
Can I get a code lien reduced?
Often yes — many local governments have a mitigation or release process, especially once the violation is corrected. Ask the code office.
Can I sell a house with open code violations?
Yes. We buy as-is, and recorded liens are typically paid from proceeds at closing.