The Code Enforcement Board Special Master is an individual, chosen from the community, who receives and evaluates evidence and testimony regarding alleged violations of Lake County Codes and Land Development Regulations. The Lake County Board of County Commissioners appoints the Special Master.

The Code Enforcement Special Master hearings are usually held in the County Commission Chambers on the second floor of the Lake County Administration Building, 315 W. Main St., Tavares. Typically, these hearings are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at 9 a.m. Notification is provided as required by law. The pubic is welcome to attend.

The Code Enforcement Special Master proceedings follow "Roberts Rules of Order"; however, due to the quasi-judicial nature of the Special Master, other procedures may be followed. As each case is presented, the persons involved in the case go to the podium to be sworn in and provide testimony. The code enforcement staff presents the initial testimony and submits evidence applicable to the alleged violation(s). After hearing and considering presentations from the staff, the respondent and other participants, the Code Enforcement Special Master renders a decision regarding the presence of violation(s) on the property. If the property is found to be in violation, a date by which the violation(s) must be corrected will be ordered by the Special Master, and a fine amount will be determined to accrue each day the violation(s) remains beyond the ordered date for correction.

Documentation of the Code Enforcement Special Master Orders is mailed to the respondent(s) after the public hearing. Occasionally, these public hearings are postponed or continued. If this occurs, a new hearing date will be announced at the originally scheduled hearing. For the results of the public hearing, contact the Code Enforcement Public Hearing Coordinator at (352) 343-9639.

Audiotapes and minutes of Code Enforcement Special Master public hearings are available for purchase through the Lake County Code Enforcement Services Division. If a transcript of these public hearings is desired, arrangements in advance should be made with a private court reporter to have the hearing transcribed. Court reporting services are not available through the Code Enforcement Board Recording Secretary.

For more information or questions regarding the Code Enforcement Special Master, call Jennifer Lobato at (352) 343-9639 or e-mail at jlobato@lakecountyfl.gov.

A brochure which has guidelines to assist individuals who represent themselves before the Special Master Hearing is available here.