Magistrate gives Defuniak Springs homeowners 90 days to clear junk and remove unauthorized RV living

Greg Forehand, Walton County code compliance officer, presented the case for 247 O’Daniel’s Way where inspections found multiple inoperable vehicles, junk and RV occupancy exceeding allowances for the parcel.

Forehand described a months-long abatement effort that included dumpster deliveries in late 2024 and follow-up inspections. One owner’s representative and family members explained the household includes a disabled relative and a family hoarding dynamic that has complicated cleanup; they asked for the maximum allowable time. Forehand recommended 61 days; the magistrate used discretion to give the maximum permitted 90 days, citing the family circumstances and the ability to later seek a fine reduction if the cleanup continued beyond the order.

The magistrate’s order finds violations of Walton County Land Development Code sections for RVs/campers and unlawful outdoor storage and sets Aug. 12 as the compliance deadline. If the property is not brought into compliance by then, the order imposes a $100-per-day fine and a $91 administrative fee due within 30 days. The magistrate encouraged owners to pursue the county’s fine-reduction process if they demonstrate active progress after the deadline.