Special Magistrate

Meetings

  • The 2nd Monday of Each Month - unless otherwise indicated, please check below
  • City Hall Commission Chambers
    155 Corey Avenue
    St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
  • SHORT-TERM RENTALS 10:00 AM - ALL OTHER CASES 1:00 PM

Meeting Schedule

  • January 9, 2023 
  • February 13, 2023
  • March 13, 2023
  • April 10, 2023
  • May 8, 2023
  • June 12, 2023
  • July 10, 2023
  • August 14, 2023
  • September 11, 2023
  • October 9, 2023
  • November 13, 2023
  • December 11, 2023 

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval

Special Magistrate Role

The Special Magistrate is a licensed attorney appointed by the City Manager, and affirmed by the City Commission to serve as a supplemental code enforcement process for the city. The Special Magistrate is vested with all the powers granted under Chapter 162 of the Florida Statutes, and as amended.

Responsibilities

The Special Magistrate sets the procedures for conduct of hearings that are open to the public. Code enforcement hearings are scheduled for the second Monday of each month. Hearings are conducted much like court proceedings with testimony and evidence presented by both the City (Code Enforcement Officer) and the respondent (Violator).

Evidence & Testimony

Any relevant evidence shall be admitted if the Special Magistrate finds it competent and reliable, regardless of the existence of any common law or statutory rule to the contrary. All testimony at the hearing shall be under oath, and each party shall have the right to call and examine witnesses, and to introduce exhibits; to cross-examine opposing witnesses on any matter relevant to the issues.

The Special Magistrate shall make findings of fact-based on the evidence in the record alone and may state conclusions of law. The fact-finding determination of the Special Magistrate shall describe whether the alleged violation did in fact occur and, if so, whether the person named in the civil violation notice is legally responsible for that violation.

Affirming Violation

If the decision of the Special Magistrate affirms the code inspector's determination of violation, then any of the following may be included in the order:

  • Amount of civil penalty
  • Pre-hearing and hearing administrative enforcement costs
  • Date by which the violation shall be corrected to prevent resumption of continuing violation penalties

Fines or Penalties

Any fines or penalties imposed by the Special Magistrate may be recorded as a lien against the real property of the respondent, and payable to the City.