Magistrate dismisses code-enforcement charge for outdoor washing machine at Pepperwood Avenue property

The special magistrate dismissed a Deltona code-enforcement charge that a washing machine located on the side of a residence at 668 Pepperwood Ave constituted prohibited outdoor storage.

Code compliance officer Tina Pagan presented photos and multiple reinspection dates showing a washing machine outside, with hoses attached and, on one visit, a puddle consistent with the machine's use. Pagan sought 30 days for compliance or a $25-per-day fine.

The magistrate said she struggled to classify the unit as prohibited storage because it appeared hooked up and in use "similar to other types of machines like an AC unit that would be permitted on the side of the house." She noted drainage concerns raised by staff were possible separate violations but said the particular cited ordinance (storage of residential materials outdoors) did not clearly apply to equipment in active use and dismissed that charge.

Pagan noted additional debris and drainage issues that could form the basis for other citations; the magistrate said those could be pursued separately. The magistrate instructed staff to reframe any separate violations and to refile if appropriate.