Ordinance to Demolish or Repair Structure

After failure of an owner of a deteriorated or dilapidated dwelling or dwelling unit to comply with an order of the Code Enforcement Supervisor within the time specified therein, if injunctive relief has not been sought or has not been granted, the Supervisor shall submit to the Board of Appeals on Dwelling, Building and Property Standards an ordinance ordering the Supervisor to cause the dwelling or dwelling unit to be repaired or demolished. The Code Enforcement Supervisor shall place a condemnation placard on the dwelling.

What happens if I fail To comply with the ordinance adopted by the Board of Appeals?

After failure of an owner of a dwelling or dwelling unit to comply with an order of the Code Enforcement Supervisor upon adoption by the Board of Appeals, the Supervisor shall proceed to cause the dwelling to be demolished. The structure will be placarded stating that the building is unfit for human habitation. It is a misdemeanor to occupy a structure after it has been posted.

Ordinances are recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds in the county wherein the property is located.

The Code Enforcement Supervisor will contract to cause the structure to be demolished. The owner will be advised of the charges incurred. Failure of the owner to compensate the City for such charges will result in a lien against the real property. The lien shall be filed and have the same priority and be collected as taxes.

Does the owner have a right to appeal the decision of the City of Sanford?

An appeal from any decision or order of the Supervisor may be filed with the City of Sanford Board of Appeals on Dwelling, Building, & Property Standards by any person affected by the order.

Any person aggrieved by an order issued by the Supervisor or a decision rendered by the Board shall have the right, within 30 days after issuance of the order or rendering of the decision, to petition the Superior Court for a temporary injunction restraining the Supervisor pending a final disposition of the cause.

Who is responsible to comply with the code?

Any legal owner, agent of the owner, landlord and or manager.

Do I have to repair a house if I leave it vacant?

All dwellings or dwelling units are subject to the Minimum Housing Code, regardless of weather or not the unit is occupied.

Why are condemnations necessary?

The primary objective of condemnation proceedings is the removal of dangerous, unsafe and unsanitary structures.

How long does it take to complete a condemnation?

It takes approximately 4 to 6 months from the time the proceedings are initiated until the time the demolition is completed.