St. Pete Beach codes fines Coconut Inn $250 daily for lighting violations

The Special Magistrate meeting held on July 14, 2025, in St. Pete Beach, Florida, focused on code enforcement issues, particularly concerning a violation involving Coconut Inn, LLC. The meeting addressed case number 20250279, where the Coconut Inn was cited for noncompliance with local beachfront lighting regulations.

City code enforcement officer Steven Revere presented the case, detailing that the property at 113 Eleventh Avenue was found in violation of multiple sections of the city’s ordinance regarding existing beachfront lighting. The initial inspection occurred on May 9, 2025, with a notice of violation issued shortly after on May 15. The compliance deadline was set for June 16, 2025, but the property remained noncompliant as of the meeting date.

Revere outlined the corrective actions required, which included replacing the existing lights with turtle-friendly lighting or turning off the lights from May 1 through October 31. He recommended a daily fine of $250 starting from May 27, 2025, until compliance is achieved, along with an additional $330 for administrative costs and potential lien recording fees.

Maggie LeBlanc, the managing partner of Coconut Inn, was present at the meeting to address the violation. The discussion highlighted the importance of adhering to local environmental regulations, particularly those aimed at protecting wildlife during nesting seasons.

The meeting concluded with a focus on ensuring compliance and the potential financial implications for the Coconut Inn if corrective actions are not taken promptly. The case underscores the city’s commitment to enforcing code regulations that protect the local environment and community standards.