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Investigator: workers cleared roughly 7.16 acres without permits; board admits photos
Summary
County investigator told the board workers used heavy machinery to clear roughly 7.16 acres without a vegetation removal permit; stop‑work orders were posted, photos were admitted into the record and the matter will proceed to resolution or further action.
Collier County investigators told the code board they observed active clearing of roughly 7.16 acres without a vegetation‑removal permit and issued stop‑work orders.
Investigator Rick Bridal recounted that on July 11 he found two workers operating a backhoe and a skid steer who admitted they did not have a vegetation‑removal permit. "They admitted they did not and he instructed them to immediately stop work, pack up their equipment, and leave the property," Bridal told the board as he presented eight photos and a 2026 aerial identifying the cleared area. Staff estimated the cleared area at about 7.16 acres. The board accepted the photographs into evidence and proceeded with hearing steps; the respondent said he had met with county staff before clearing, hired an engineer and planned to pursue rezoning and permitting.
Why it matters: unpermitted large‑scale clearing can trigger environmental review, potential involvement of state environmental agencies and fines; the board's acceptance of photographic evidence formalizes the record.
Next steps: the board will decide a path forward; county staff indicated a notice of violation has been issued and the matter may return for further action if compliance is not achieved.
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