Frequently Asked Questions

• 1.) How do I report a Code violation?

  Main Number: (305) 416-2087
  •  Monday – Fridays: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  

  After-Hours Hotline (786) 457-0995

  •  Monday – Thursday: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
  •  Fridays at 5:00 p.m. –  Sundays at 5:00 p.m

  You may also file a complaint through the “File a Complaint” link on our home page.

• 2.) How can I check if my property has any open violations?

  You may call the Code Compliance Hotline at 305-416-2087, or contact the Department of Hearing Boards at 305-416-2030.

• 3.) What are the most common residential Code violations?

  The most common residential Code violations are for overgrown lots, failure to maintain exterior (façade), noise violations, commercial vehicles parked in residential areas and vacant/unsecured/abandoned structures.

• 4.) What are the most common commercial Code violations?

  The most common commercial violations are illegal signage, noise violations, failure to maintain exterior, noise violations and failure to have a Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt.

• 5.) How do I report graffiti in the public right-of-way?

  Call your local Neighborhood Enhancement Team (NET) or call 305-960-4NET (4638) for help.

• 6.) What happens when a violation of the Code is found?

  The city’s main objective is compliance. When a violation is found the inspector will issue a notice to the property owner advising them of the issues at the property. This notice will include the violations at the property, a compliance deadline and the Inspector’s contact information. If you need additional time you must contact the Inspector so that an extension may be granted. If compliance is not met the Inspector will schedule the case to be heard before the Code Enforcement Board.

• 7.) What can I do if I was issued a Ticket?

  The Florida Constitution states that any person which receives a civil violation has the right to appeal the violation. The information on the appeal process as well as the time frame for the appeal is provided on the ticket.

• 8.) What do I do if I comply with the violation?

  If the violations are addressed you need to contact the Inspector assigned to your case so that they may perform a follow up inspection.

• 9.) Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

  Yes. A permit is needed to relocate, remove or trim more than 25% of a trees canopy or root system.
  For information regarding tree removal/relocation/trimming permits, please contact:
  The Department of Environmental Resources at 305-416-1551 or 305-416-1601.
  If the tree is in the Public Right of Way, please contact the Public Works Department at 305-416-1200.

• 10.) What is an inoperable/untagged vehicle?

  Any vehicle in the City of Miami that does not have a valid tag, has an expired tag, or is not in operable condition (i.e. flat tires).

• 11.) I have been cited for having an illegal unit. How do I comply with this violation?

  The first step is to obtain a file search and tax card from the City of Miami Building Department, microfilm section. Contact the Code Compliance Inspector which issued the violation. The Inspector will meet with you and explain the steps needed to comply.

• 12.) How do I know when I need a building permit?

  Generally, a permit is required for work exceeding five-hundred dollars. Contact the Building Department at 305-416-1100.

• 13.) I have been cited for not registering vacant property. How do I comply?

  The City of Miami requires any vacant structure or LOT to be registered. To register, visit your Neighborhood Enhancement Team (NET) or call 305-960-4NET (4638).

• 14.) What are the requirements to operate a business in the City of Miami?

  To operate a business in the City of Miami a Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt is required.

• 15.) How can I apply for Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt?

  The Department of Code Compliance is ready to assist you with opening your business. Please call 305-416-2088 and we will go to your place of business and assist in the entire process.

• 16.) Can I repair my vehicle at home?

  No. Mechanical repairs are not permitted in any residential area.

• 17.) What do I do if my neighborhood has chickens and roosters loose?

  Call your local Neighborhood Enhancement Team (NET) or call 305-960-4NET (4638) for help.

• 18.) I have a commercial truck. Can I legally park it in my driveway?

  No. Commercial vehicles are not allowed in residential zones.

• 19.) How can I contact the Code Compliance Inspector for my area?

  Please refer to our contact page for the office number of your Inspector.

• 20.) I am repairing the fence on my property do I need a permit?

  For permit information, please contact the Building Department at 305-416-1100.

• 21.) I want to sell flowers. What are the requirements?

  You will need to obtain a Business Tax Receipt. If you will be selling from a flower cart in the public Right of Way you also need a permit from the Public Works Department, their number is 305-416-1200. If you will be selling from a flower cart in a gas station please contact the Zoning Department for additional regulations, their number is 305-416-1496.

• 22.) My neighbor and I are planning a garage sale this weekend. What are the requirements?

  Garage sales require permits and are allowed twice per year. The permit may be obtained at your local NET office.

• 23.) How can I find out if my property has a lien or a code compliance violation?

  You may contact the Hearing Boards Department at 305-416-2030 and request a file/lien search.

• 24.) Do I need a permit to paint my property?

  No. The City of Miami does not require a permit for painting.