Title:
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Approve the adoption of the Ordinance amending Chapter 53, Code Enforcement, of the Seminole County Code of Ordinances; Amending definitions; Amending provisions related to the Code Enforcement Board and Special Magistrate(s); Adopting a procedure for the reduction of Code Enforcement liens; Revising provisions related to the civil citation process; Updating the schedule of violations and penalties for civil citations; Providing for codification in the Seminole County Code; Providing for Severability; And providing for an effective date. Countywide. (Tricia Johnson, Deputy County Manager)
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Division:
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Development Services
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Authorized By:
Tricia Johnson, Deputy County Manager
Contact/Phone Number:
Tricia Johnson/407-665-7247
Background:
At its September 24, 2024, meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) directed staff to revise the County’s Code Enforcement program, including the processes and procedures related to Code Enforcement and relevant chapters of the County Code.
On August 26, 2025, the BCC held a work session to review proposed modifications and recommendations for Chapter 53, Code Enforcement.
Key recommendations incorporated into the draft ordinance include:
• Delegating limited authority to the County Manager to appoint Code Enforcement staff;
• Standardizing rules and procedures for the Code Enforcement Board and Special Magistrate;
• Returning the lien reduction process to the Special Magistrate;
• Revising maximum fines as authorized by Florida Statute;
• Removing the “recommended fines” table; and
• Updating the citation process.
The County Manager’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, and Development Services Department recommend adoption of the ordinance amending Chapter 53 to strengthen the County’s ability to enforce its codes and ordinances.
Notice of Public Hearing was published in the Orlando Sentinel on Saturday, August 30, 2025. If approved, the ordinance will take effect upon filing with the Florida Department of State by the Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners.
Requested Action:
Staff requests the Board approve the adoption of the Ordinance amending Chapter 53, Code Enforcement, of the Seminole County Code of Ordinances; Amending definitions; Amending provisions related to the Code Enforcement Board and Special Magistrate(s); Adopting a procedure for the reduction of Code Enforcement liens; Revising provisions related to the civil citation process; Updating the schedule of violations and penalties for civil citations; Providing for codification in the Seminole County Code; Providing for Severability; And providing for an effective date.