In a recent government meeting, a magistrate issued a directive requiring a property owner in Bay County, Florida, to address two unsafe structures on their property within 30 days. The owner must either apply for demolition permits or submit a complete building permit application for repairs, which must include a full structural report and plans from a licensed Florida design professional.

The magistrate emphasized that all building permit inspections must be conducted by the Bay County builder services division and that repairs must align with an approved action plan and structural report. Failure to comply within the specified timeframe will result in a $1,000 fine, which will be levied against the property.

Additionally, if the property owner allows any obtained permits to expire or become void, the county is authorized to enter the property after 30 days to address the violations without further hearings. The magistrate also granted county staff the authority to abate the code violations, which may include demolishing unsafe structures and removing hazardous materials, with costs assessed to the property owner.

A follow-up hearing has been scheduled for January 8, 2025, to review compliance progress. This decision underscores the county's commitment to maintaining safety standards and addressing property violations effectively.