Process of Code Enforcement

How a Case Begins

Code Enforcement cases can begin in a number of different ways:

• Complaints which are received in person and in which the complainant fills out and signs a sworn affidavit of complaint will be investigated as a first priority. The complainant will be updated on a regular basis and will be notified when the case is resolved.
• Complaints received from citizens from methods other than in person by sworn affidavit (phone, email, letter, etc) will be handled as the second priority. The complainant will be asked to provide their name, address, and contact information in order to properly process and investigate the complaint. Complainants will be notified with the out come of the complaint, if requested.
• Anonymous complaints will not be investigated. Effective July 1, 2021, Senate Bill 60 became law prohibiting code inspectors from initiating enforcement proceedings for potential violations of code and ordinances by way of anonymous complaints; requiring persons who report potential violation of codes and ordinances to provide specified information to the department before an investigation occurs.  

General Outline of Case Progression

Case progression can vary depending upon the nature of the violation or a number of variables.

• A complaint is received by the Department.
• An inspection is performed to verify that a violation exists on the property.
• The property owner is then notified that a violation(s) exists and is given a reasonable period of time in which to correct the violation(s).
• A follow-up inspection is performed to verify that the violation(s) has been corrected.
• If compliance cannot be achieved through normal channels, the case is forwarded before the Nassau County Code Enforcement Board.
• After hearing testimony from the property owner and Nassau County Code Enforcement, the Board rules on the case and determines whether or not the County has proved a violation(s) exists on the property.
• If the Board determines that a violation does exist on the property, an order is issued that the property come into compliance within a specified period of time or a fine will commence for each day the property remains in violation.
• If compliance is not achieved after the time given by the Board has expired, a fine will be assessed as a lien against all properties owned by the individual in violation and the fine will continue until compliance is achieved.
• Once a fine has continued to accumulate for a period of 90 days, the case is then referred to the County Attorney where the option to foreclose on the subject property is considered.

If You Have Been Cited

If you have been cited for a violation of County Ordinance(s), you are encouraged to contact the investigator assigned to your case at 904-530-6200 (or toll free 800-264-2065). If you are willing to correct the violation(s) in a timely manner, the Department will work with you to achieve a resolution to the matter.