During the introduction of a July 30th meeting agenda item by Hernando County Senior Planner Omar DePablo, Commissioner Jerry Campbell could be heard saying “Hallelujah.”
DePablo was introducing a proposal amending County Ordinance Chapter 10, Article III, Section 10-54 which removes the permit requirement for construction of walls and fences under seven feet tall. Campbell later said he supports the measure “1000 percent.”
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) voted unanimously to rescind the permit requirement. The new Ordinance is in effect as of July 31, 2024.
Commissioner Steve Champion, who brought the matter forward said, “Any time I see that there’s a building code in Hernando County, or a rule or regulation that’s above the Florida Building Code, (it) should all be stricken. We should not have more restrictive regulations than the State of Florida.”
Champion went on to say that he met with building inspectors with regard to walls and fencing, and learned that the County only confirms that a fence has been erected or a wall constructed. Matters of property boundaries are not addressed at the time of inspection, and are considered a civil matter should issues arise. “So why are we taxing the public?” Champion said, motioning for approval of the amendment.
Walls and fences above 7 feet still require a County permit.
Commissioner John Allocco added to the motion that an addition to the County building website be made listing the rules in place that govern walls and fences, particularly that a misplaced structure could result in civil liability if it encroaches on your neighboring property.
Residents governed by Homeowner’s Association (HOA) covenants should check with their respective HOA rules.
