FAQs • Fort Pierce, FL • CivicEngage

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Code Enforcement

1. Why am I being cited for not having a permit, I purchased the property like this?: Code Enforcement must cite the current property owner. If the previous owner of the property does not obtain a permit for installing a shed, a fence, etc., and later sells the property to you, you become responsible for the violation. However, you do have the right to pursue civil action against the previous owner.

2. Why did I get cited when other properties have the same or worse violations?: A majority of cases generated by Code Enforcement are originated from a complaint. All complaints must be investigated. When a violation is found a case will be initiated. When time allows, Code Enforcement Officers will address similar conditions found on the same block. If you feel that other violations in your neighborhood are not being addressed, feel free to contact our office. A Code Enforcement Officer will conduct an investigation in the area and take appropriate action.

3. Why am I being cited for all of these violations? This isn't what my property looks like.: Florida State Statute 162 requires the Code Enforcement Division to provide you notice of the specific Ordinance that is being violated. Additionally, Code Enforcement Officers will provide you with specific corrective actions. Sometimes the Ordinance will include other conditions that may not exist on your property. If you have a question regarding the notice you have received, please contact your Code Enforcement Officer. Their name and phone number can be found on the bottom of the notice of violation.

4. Can you recommend a company to cut my grass?: The City has compiled a list of vendors that are familiar with the type of work that the City requires. The City does not endorse these companies and the City advises you to do your due diligence before hiring any company to complete work on your behalf. You may view the list by clicking here. clicking here.

5. I have a business tax receipt for St. Lucie County, do I need one for the City of Fort Pierce too?: Yes, if your business is located within the city limits of Fort Pierce. Please contact the City Clerk's Office at (772) 467-3065 or (772) 467-3066 with any questions you may have.

6. Where can I find out more information about approved fertilizers?: You can find out more information about fertilizer by clicking here. clicking here.

7. Are there water restrictions currently in place?: The South Florida Water Management District has adopted year-round conservation measures. You may view more details about these measures by clicking here. clicking here.

8. I just found out there is a lien on my property, what should I do?: Before any action can be taken to remedy the lien, the property must first be brought into compliance. If you haven't already done so, contact the Code Enforcement Officer handling this case. Once the property has been brought into compliance we can provide you with the necessary paperwork to request a reduction of the lien.

9. I just found out I obtained a property with a lien on it, what should I do?: If you utilized the services of a title company during the transfer of the property, you should contact them first. If not, you should contact our office at (772) 467-3149 to find out what action is required to bring the property into compliance. Our office will provide you with the necessary paperwork to request a reduction of the lien if the property has already been brought into compliance.

10. I just purchased property and found out that it is scheduled for a hearing, what should I do?: Florida State Statute 162.06(5) requires that if the owner of property that is subject to an enforcement proceeding before the Code Enforcement Board or Special Magistrate transfers ownership of such property between the time the initial pleading was served and the time of the hearing, such owner shall disclose, in writing, the existence and the nature of the proceeding to the prospective transferee.
If the property is transferred before the hearing, the proceeding shall not be dismissed, but the new owner shall be provided a reasonable period of time to correct the violation before the hearing is held.

11. Are vendors allowed within Fort Pierce?: You are allowed to operate as a vendor, solicitor or canvasser within the City of Fort Pierce once you have obtained a permit. Permit applications are available through the City Clerk's Office. You may find additional information regarding vendor permits and the vendor permit application online by clicking here. clicking here.

12. How can I reach Code Enforcement?: For general questions or concerns, you may reach the Code Enforcement office at (772) 467-3149 during our normal office hours of Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Code Enforcement Officers work a majority of their day in the field. If you are unable to reach them by phone, please leave a voicemail and they will return your call at their earliest convenience.

13. I just received a violation letter from Code Enforcement, what should I do?: If you do not understand what the Code Enforcement Officer is requesting you to do or if you need more time, please contact the Code Enforcement Officer. Communication between you and the Officer is a valuable resource when bringing properties into compliance.