Code enforcement board imposes $250-a-day fine for work done without final inspection

The Lake Clarke Shores Code Enforcement Board voted to impose a $250-per-day fine on a Pine Tree Lane property after finding the owner failed to close out permits for stucco work. At the imposition hearing, Code Enforcement Officer Eric Ritwagen told the board the permit had been pulled but no final inspection had been completed, so the violation remained unresolved.

"Based on the testimony I have as presented in case number 24-0260, I move that the response be found to have failed to comply with the order ... and a fine in the amount of $250 a day being imposed commencing September 25," said Board member Gerard Sanchez, who made the motion. After discussion about inspection procedures, the board voted by voice and the motion carried.

Eric said the stucco work had been performed without a final sign-off and that a building inspection is required to close the permit; he noted a final inspection might include opening a section of the work or reviewing the finished product. Board members asked how compliance would be verified if the work was already covered, and Eric said he would consult with the building inspector on inspection steps.

A board member also questioned whether an LLC-owned property might be eligible for homestead considerations; the board did not change the action and moved to the next item. The board directed that fines begin on Sept. 25 and continue to accrue daily until the town confirms compliance and the permit is closed.