Open, Vacant and Abandoned Properties

• Foundations and walls must be structurally sound and maintained in good repair
• Windows and exterior doors must be weather-tight and rodent-proof, as well as kept in good condition
• Exterior stairways and porches must be kept in good repair
• Utility connections shall be free from defects, disconnected, removed or otherwise made safe
• Plumbing fixtures, water pipes,waste pipes, and drains shall be free from defects, leaks and obstructions
• Exterior walls and roofs shall be kept in good repair
• Swimming pools must be secured by fencing in compliance with Section 33-12 of the Miami-Dade County Code, or by filling in with sand
• All exterior surfaces subject to deterioration must be properly maintained and protected from the elements by paint or other approved protective coating
• Exterior areas that show evidence of deterioration must be repaired or replaced

The owner or property manager of a house that is vacant, open and abandoned must take immediate action to secure the vacant structure in a manner that abates the unsafe conditions, using construction methods which are in compliance with the Florida Building Code.

The security method selected must prevent the structure from being reopened.

Vacant structures that are temporarily ordered secured cannot be used or occupied until written approval is given by the enforcing agency.

In no event shall a vacant structure remain secured by the use of concrete blocks, storm shutters or similar materials for longer than 180 days, unless extended pursuant to the Florida Building Code.

The entire costs incurred by Miami-Dade County in enforcing the provisions of Chapter 17A shall be paid by the owner, including but not limited to the cost of:

• Enforcement inspections
• Securing vacant housing
• Structures
• Preparation of reports
• Photographs
• Title searches
• Postage
• Other administrative costs for enforcement and collection