Collier County investigates fraudulent licensing in building permit submissions

In a recent meeting held on March 26, 2025, Collier County officials discussed ongoing concerns regarding a criminal investigation linked to building permits and licensing issues within the community. Jamie French, the Department Head for Community Development and Growth Management, provided an update on the situation, which has garnered significant media attention.

French explained that the Florida building code mandates that all local authorities, including counties and cities, must have a registered building official. In Collier County, both the primary and backup building officials are fully licensed by the state. However, the investigation arose when it was discovered that a licensed professional engineer had submitted plans that were later found to be associated with a license that was no longer valid. This prompted a thorough review of numerous permits linked to this engineer.

The implications of this investigation are significant, as it raises questions about the integrity of the permitting process and the potential impact on construction projects in the area. French noted that while Collier County had qualified the engineer's license at the time of application, the state ultimately controls the licensing process. This situation highlights the challenges local authorities face when dealing with state regulations and the potential for oversight failures.

Commissioner McDaniel expressed concerns about the need for timely communication regarding such serious issues, emphasizing the importance of being briefed on developments before they become public knowledge. French assured the commissioners that the county is cooperating with state authorities, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and is taking steps to enhance its software systems to better track and verify licenses in the future.

The meeting underscored the importance of regulatory compliance in the construction industry and the need for vigilance in maintaining public trust. As the investigation continues, officials are expected to implement measures to prevent similar issues from arising in the future, ensuring that the integrity of the permitting process remains intact.