The Special Magistrate Hearing on Building and Construction Enforcement held on July 17, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, addressed multiple cases of property violations related to illegal construction and occupancy changes. The meeting focused on ensuring compliance with the Florida Building Code and granting property owners time to rectify their violations.

One significant case involved a property cited for multiple violations, including unauthorized interior alterations and a change in occupancy classification from a single-family residence to a multifamily dwelling without the necessary permits. The city requested that the magistrate find the violations exist and grant the property owner 126 days to comply, or face a fine of $100 per day thereafter. The magistrate agreed, allowing the owner until November 20, 2025, to address the issues.

Another case presented involved a property that had been converted from a single-family home to a triplex without proper permits. The owner was granted 63 days to comply with the city's requirements, with a potential fine of $50 per day for any ongoing violations. The city noted that the owner was actively working to resolve the issues by applying for the necessary permits.

Additional cases included properties with similar violations, such as unauthorized construction work and occupancy changes. In each instance, the magistrate emphasized the importance of compliance and allowed varying timeframes for property owners to rectify their situations, often accompanied by fines for non-compliance.

The hearing concluded with the magistrate reiterating the city's commitment to enforcing building codes and ensuring public safety through compliance. Property owners were encouraged to work closely with city inspectors to resolve their issues promptly. The next steps for many cases will involve follow-up hearings to assess compliance progress by the set deadlines.