City Issues $5,000 Fine to Handyman for Unpermitted Work in Florida

In a recent meeting of the Venice Special Magistrate for Code Enforcement, significant discussions centered around a case involving unlicensed contracting and work conducted without proper permits. The case, which has drawn attention due to its implications for local regulations and contractor accountability, highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring compliance within the community.

The case involved Mr. Christopher Vallone, who was cited for performing work on a property without the necessary permits and contractor's license. Officer Acosta testified that Vallone had claimed to be a handyman and was working under another contractor, but could not provide verification of that contractor's license. As a result, Vallone received a civil citation totaling $3,000 for violations related to unlicensed contracting and working without a permit.

During the hearing, Frank Vicompre, the property owner and a contractor with 35 years of experience in New York, defended Vallone's actions. He explained that he and Vallone believed they were operating within legal bounds as property owners. Vicompre stated that they were in the process of obtaining the necessary Florida licenses and had not intended to evade regulations. He emphasized their commitment to compliance, noting that they had brought their trucks from New York and were actively working on securing the appropriate licenses.

The city’s representatives, however, maintained that the violations were clear and warranted the maximum contested fee of $5,000, which includes penalties for multiple infractions. Officer Acosta reiterated that Vallone had admitted to performing unpermitted work, which further solidified the city's position on the matter. The city’s code enforcement supervisor clarified that the fees were set by local regulations and could not be altered.

As the meeting concluded, the magistrate was left to consider the evidence presented and the implications of the case for both the individuals involved and the broader community. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar violations are handled in the future, emphasizing the importance of adherence to local contracting laws and the enforcement of penalties for non-compliance. The city’s commitment to upholding these regulations reflects a broader effort to maintain safety and standards within the community, ensuring that all contractors operate within the legal framework established by local codes.