Alachua County magistrate hears dozens of code cases, grants reductions and sets fines

The Alachua County special magistrate convened a code enforcement hearing in April 2026 to consider dozens of alleged violations ranging from unserviceable vehicles and junk accumulation to after-the-fact building work and recreational vehicles used as living quarters. County code officers presented evidence, photographs and inspection histories; several property owners appeared to request more time or to ask for reductions of fines and rescission of liens.

The magistrate opened the session by explaining the office’s authority: the magistrate can determine whether a violation occurred, set dates for compliance and levy daily fines but cannot change county ordinances (appeals go to the courts). Officers swore witnesses and proceeded through the docket.

County staff recommended findings of violation in multiple cases. Examples include case 26‑001323 (Mid Florida Distributors, parcel 10866006000), where the county alleged violations of section 74.2(b) for unserviceable vehicles and requested 30 days to comply or $50 per day plus $280 in prosecution costs; and case 26‑001259 (6114 NE 78th Lane) where the county made a similar recommendation for owner Gabriel Bellamy. In several…