The Preserve at Lake Monroe

The Preserve at Lake Monroe

Keeping properties code compliant - FAQ's

Community Improvement
The Community Improvement Division is here to assist the citizens of Sanford in keeping their neighborhoods in compliance with City codes. Keeping properties code compliant protects and enhances property values and makes the City a more attractive place to live, work and shop.

The Community Improvement Division is primarily responsible for enforcement of most of the City's Code of Ordinances and Land Development Codes.

The Community Improvement office takes in complaints from citizens and staff inspects and investigates those complaints to see if a violation of City code exists, and then begins taking the appropriate steps to gain compliance. Those steps can involve both an informal and/or formal process.

Cases that go unresolved end up before the City's Special Magistrate.

Community Improvement's regular work hours are from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday. You may contact the office at 407.302.9410. Complaints can be called in directly to a staff member or you may leave a voice message after regular work hours. You may also contact us by selecting "Action Request" on the left of your screen.

Remember that Community Improvement is here to help. Working together will prevent blight in our neighborhoods and further enhance the quality of life in our City.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is considered an unlicensed/ inoperable vehicle?
Any vehicle, including trailers, kept in residential areas of the City must have a current license tag assigned to it, and be capable of being immediately and legally driven on the street.

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2. Is it acceptable to keep an unlicensed/inoperable vehicle under a car cover, in a carport or behind a fence?
No. To keep an unlicensed/inoperable vehicle on your property, it must be kept in a fully enclosed garage.

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3. What is considered high growth?
Wild growth more than 18 inches in height or grass more than 12 inches in height is considered high growth and against Code. Homeowners are also responsible for maintaining the alley ways and rights of way that adjoin their property.

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4. What is considered junk, trash, debris and litter?
It is against code to allow the accumulation of junk, trash, debris and litter, including but not limited to cans, papers, plastics, cardboard, furniture, auto parts, appliances, tires, building materials, or any kind of yard waste. This also applies to any adjoining alley ways or right of ways.

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5. Is outdoor storage permitted?
No. Open, outdoor storage is prohibited in residential areas. This includes carports and screened porches that are visible from the street. You may not store indoor furniture, household appliances, clothing, tools, equipment, building supplies or any item that does not ordinarily belong outside.

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6. What is considered lack of maintenance to a structure?
Any wood, siding, shingles, roof covering, railings, fences, walls, ceilings, porches, doors, windows, screens, and other parts of a structure must be kept in weather proof, weather tight, rodent proof condition and good repair. All doors and windows must be kept secure.

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7. Can I post signs in my neighborhood?
Portable signs and banners cannot be placed on public rights of way or any public property. No signs may be placed or altered on private property without a permit from the Building division. For information on sign permits call the Building Division at 407.330.5660.

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8. When do I need a construction permit?
No building or structure may be erected, altered, or enlarged without first obtaining the necessary building and zoning approval. This includes fences and sheds. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical alterations also require permits. For building permit information call 407.330.5660, for zoning information call 407.330.5642.

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9. Are there special rules in the Historic Residential District?
A Certificate of Appropriateness is required before doing any work to the outside of your residence. This includes painting, remodeling, additions, fences and roof repairs. Contact Engineering and Planning for more information at 407.330.5672.

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10. Do I need a permit for a garage sale?
No, a resident is allowed to have two garage sales in a calendar year, limited to 3 consecutive days. Signs or other forms of advertisement may be displayed only on the garage sale property.

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11. Does the City have regulations concerning animals?
Residents are limited to 3 dogs and 3 cats per household. Chickens, pigs, (including pot bellied pigs) and other farm animals are not allowed in areas other than those zoned for agriculture. For specific information regarding animal regulations, call Seminole County Animal Control at 407.665.5201.

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12. Can I park commercial equipment and vehicles at my home?
No, commercial equipment and vehicles may not be parked in any residential area. Commercial vehicles may deliver, but not park for any period of time.

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13. Do I need an occupational license to do business in the City?
Yes, no person shall engage in any occupation, business, or profession without first obtaining a City of Sanford Occupational License. A Seminole County Occupational License may also be required, but is not a substitute for a City of Sanford License. For more information on Licensing call 407.330.5656.

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14. Can I park my car between the curb and sidewalk?
It is illegal to park on the area between the curb and sidewalk, or park on, or across any sidewalk. Driving over a curb is illegal in the City of Sanford. Additionally, vehicles cannot be parked in the front or side yard unless parking occurs in the area of a lot permitted for a driveway with any associated curb cut permit.

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15. What is considered a vehicle?
The City of Sanford defines vehicles as: trucks, automobiles, boats, recreational vehicles, travel trailers, mobile homes, farm equipment and non-motorized hauling trailers and pleasure craft that are normally kept or displayed outside.

Sanford, Florida - Waterfront Gateway to Central Florida

About our association

Mission Statement

To reach out to the residents of our community
and include them in our efforts to improve the integrity of our neighborhood
by maintaining community standards
and achieving positive results for our neighborhood.

Vision Statement

To create a positive atmosphere
that will make our community an excellent place
to live, play, and raise our families.

Informative Links

City of Sanford
Florida Snake Identification
Florida Department of Revenue
Armadillo Online
Seminole County Government site
House Of Management Enterprises