How do I file a code complaint?
On-line at: Accela Citizen Access ; e-mail: CodesAdmin@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6054.
Can I file an anonymous complaint?
Not as of July 1, 2021, per F.S.S. 162.06 (b) – Enforcement procedure. New Legislation passed, effective July 1, 2021, requiring the complainant to provide their legal name and address. For additional information, please see: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes./index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0100-0199/0162/0162.html.
When will the Investigator be out to check the property?
Within 7-10 business days, or as soon as possible, depending on severity of issue reported. It could be longer depending on staffing levels.
How many chickens can you have in a residential neighborhood?
E-mail: Planneroncall@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6084. See the current land development code requirements: https://library.municode.com/fl/polk_county/codes/land_development_code?nodeId=CH2LAUSDIRE_S222AGRE01300RD03-14.
How many feet does a chicken coop have to be from the property line?
Call (863) 534-6084 or e-mail: Planneroncall@polk-county.net. See the current land development code requirements: https://library.municode.com/fl/polk_county/codes/land_development_code?nodeId=CH2LAUSDIRE_S222AGRE01300RD03-14.
Does Code Enforcement test for mold?
No. You will need to hire a private company at your own expense.
Does Code Enforcement charge for repeat offender cases?
Yes. F.S.S. 162 allows for this on first offense cases, recurring violations and repeat offenses. For additional information see Polk County Special Magistrate Ordinance 08-047 (as amended).
Why was the complaint closed, yet nothing was done to the property?
There could be many different reasons. For additional information, please e-mail: CodesAdmin@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6054, if you are unable to reach the case Investigator.
Once a complaint case (CEC) is investigated and is closed out as unfounded/no violation or converted to a violation case (CMA – Magistrate, CNU – Nuisance, CBW – Bulk Waste), that information is not available for public access without an official public records request. There may be sensitive information that is required to be redacted prior to the case information being released to the public. For additional information, please e-mail: CodesAdmin@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6054.
Who is responsible if the neighbor’s tree falls?
If the tree if found to be on your property, you may be held responsible. This is a civil matter. Please contact an attorney of your choice or seek legal counsel.
What is the allowed time for construction work to begin?
As early as 6:00 a.m. for an approved permitted project and until 9:00 p.m. See Polk County Noise Control Ordinance 14-030, section 10 – Exemptions.
How far is a fence or building required to be off the property line?
E-mail: Planneroncall@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6084 for more information on setback requirements.
Is a permit required for a new fence or repair?
In certain instances when the fence is 8′ or higher, or a solid wall. For more information on permitting click https://www.polk-county.net/services/building/permitting/. You may also e-mail: BuildingDivision@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6080. See the current land development code requirements: https://library.municode.com/fl/polk_county/codes/land_development_code?nodeId=CH2LAUSDIRE_S210FEWAPERERE03250RD03-22.
For an interior inspection of the structure, the person allowing entry must be over 18 years old and have legal control of the property at the time of the inspection. This means ownership or tenancy and can legally sign to authorize staff entry for an inspection. Otherwise, anyone can call and report unsafe conditions on the exterior of a structure.
Who do I call to report raw sewage?
Contact the Florida Department of Health-Polk County at (863) 519-8330 or e-mail: polkcommunications@flhealth.gov. Additional information is available at: https://polk.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/environmental-health/onsite-sewage-disposal/ or https://floridadep.gov/water/onsite-sewage.
How long does a person have to bring a property into compliance?
Per F.S.S. 162, a reasonable amount of time to correct is required to be afforded to the owner/occupant. This varies between cases and in different situations. There are always exceptions. We always try to work with anyone who is working to bring the violation into compliance. Some cases take longer than others. Building and Land Development matters can take an extended amount of time to correct, depending on application processes, engineering, permitting and special hearings. The Special Magistrate can also grant additional time to correct.
Who do I contact when Waste & Recycling missed picking up my yard, household or bulk trash?
To report an issue, call (863) 284-4319 or e-mail: PolkWasteWise@polk-county.net.
Why can’t the investigator come the same day?
Often, their caseload and prior scheduled commitments prevent this; however, they can usually schedule a time to come and meet with you or conduct an inspection within a few days, if the matter warrants an expedited response.
Can you have an RV in a residential area?
Yes. For additional information, please call (863) 534-6084 or e-mail: Planneroncall@polk-county.net. See the current land development code requirements: https://library.municode.com/fl/polk_county/codes/land_development_code?nodeId=CH2LAUSDIRE_S218BOUTTRSPVEREVE
Can we have a commercial vehicle parked in a residential area?
Yes, if certain criteria is met. For additional information or to apply for a special exemption, please call (863) 534-6084 or e-mail: Planneroncall@polk-county.net. See the current land development code requirements: https://library.municode.com/fl/polk_county/codes/land_development_code?nodeId=CH2LAUSDIRE_S216COVEPAST.
Is a building permit required for a shed?
Yes. https://www.polk-county.net/building/do-i-need-a-permit. For more information e-mail: BuildingDivision@polk-county.net or call (863) 534-6080.
Can an RV be plugged in for refrigeration?
Yes; however, the RV is not allowed to be occupied. For additional information, please call (863) 534-6084 or e-mail: Planneroncall@polk-county.net. See the current land development code requirements: https://library.municode.com/fl/polk_county/codes/land_development_code?nodeId=CH2LAUSDIRE_S218BOUTTRSPVEREVE.
How do I refer a structure to be reviewed for possible demolition?
Call (863) 534-5929 or e-mail: CodesAdmin@polk-county.net with the address and/or parcel ID number.
Please see the linked flyers from Waste Recycling (https://www.polk-county.net/docs/default-source/waste-and-recycling/curbside-collection-placement-w-r_11-18-19_01.pdf?sfvrsn=13929f2d_2 and https://www.polk-county.net/docs/default-source/waste-and-recycling/bulk-waste-collection-w-r_06-16-22272a2f7f6c67440baef1dbaa7ad7cea5.pdf?sfvrsn=904d6bd1_10). It should be noted that Waste & Recycling does not collect tires. For additional information please call (863) 284-4319 or e-mail: PolkWasteWise@polk-county.net.