Nassau County Code Violations: Special Magistrate, Unsafe Structures & Liens

In Nassau County, code enforcement is managed by the Code Enforcement Department based in Yulee. In 2024, the County completed its transition from a volunteer Code Enforcement Board to a Special Magistrate system.

This change means that violations in Yulee, Callahan, and unincorporated Amelia Island are now adjudicated by a qualified attorney (the Magistrate) rather than a board of neighbors. The process is faster, more formal, and often results in stricter adherence to the “Daily Fine” schedule.

If you have received a Notice of Violation for an unsafe structure or accumulation of debris, you are on a strict legal timeline. This guide explains the 2026 Special Magistrate process, the risks of “Unsafe Building” citations, and how to sell your property to a cash buyer to resolve these issues.

The 3 Most Common Code Violations in Nassau County

Nassau County inspectors (Code Officers) enforce the Code of Laws and Ordinances across the unincorporated county.

1. Unsafe Structures (Dilapidated Buildings)

  • The Target: Mobile homes in Yulee/Callahan or older frame homes that have suffered storm damage or neglect.
  • The Process: If a structure is deemed “unsafe” or “unfit for habitation,” the Building Official issues a notice to repair or demolish.
  • The Risk: Under the Magistrate system, if you fail to comply, the County can authorize a Demolition Order. The County will hire a contractor to tear down the structure and place a Special Assessment Lien on the land for the cost, which can lead to foreclosure.

2. Accumulation of Debris & Junk

  • The Rule: You cannot store trash, tires, construction debris, or “junk” items on your property. This is the most common complaint in residential zones like Yulee and Hilliard.
  • The Fine: If not cleaned up by the compliance date, the Special Magistrate can impose daily fines. The County also has the power to enter the property, clean it up (abatement), and bill you for the service.

3. Unpermitted Construction (Fences & Sheds)

  • The Issue: Installing a fence over 6 feet tall or building an accessory structure (shed/garage) without a permit.
  • The Fix: You must obtain “After-the-Fact” permits, which may require engineering drawings to prove the structure meets wind-load ratings. If it doesn’t meet code, you will be ordered to tear it down.

The 2026 Civil Fine Schedule

If a violation is not corrected by the deadline, the case is heard by the Special Magistrate. The Magistrate has the authority to impose fines that accrue daily until compliance is achieved.

Violation TypeDaily FineMaximum Penalty
First ViolationUp to $1,000 / dayUnlimited
Repeat ViolationUp to $5,000 / dayUnlimited
Irreparable Violation$5,000 (One-time)$5,000

Note: Once a fine is imposed, it becomes a lien against all real property you own in Nassau County, not just the property in violation.

Your Options: Compliance, Hearing, or Sale?

Option 1: Comply (The Repair Route)

  • For Unsafe Structures: You must pull a demolition or renovation permit. Be aware that for older mobile homes, the cost of bringing them up to code often exceeds the value of the structure.
  • For Debris: You must remove all items and call (904) 530-6200 for a re-inspection to stop the clock.

Option 2: Special Magistrate Hearing

You can attend the hearing to contest the violation.

  • The Reality: The Magistrate is a legal professional. Unlike the old Board, they strictly interpret the law. If the violation exists (e.g., photo evidence of debris), they must rule in favor of the County. Arguments about “financial hardship” generally do not stop the fines from starting.

Option 3: Sell “As-Is” (The Clean Break)

If you inherited a property in Callahan with a condemned mobile home or have a lot in Yulee full of debris, selling to a cash buyer is often the most cost-effective solution.

We Buy Nassau County Properties with Violations.

  • We Buy “Unsafe” Structures: We purchase land with dilapidated mobile homes or fire-damaged houses. We handle the demolition and county permits.
  • We Pay Code Liens: If you have an accumulated fine from a previous violation, we pay it off at closing.
  • We Handle the Clean-Out: You don’t need to rent a dumpster. We buy properties filled with junk and handle the abatement ourselves.

Important Contact Information

  • Nassau County Code Enforcement
  • Building Department (Permitting)
    • Phone: (904) 530-6250

Resolve Your Code Violation Today.

If you have received a Notice of Violation or a hearing date from the Special Magistrate, fill out the form below. We provide fair cash offers for properties with code issues in Nassau County.

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Areas We Serve in Nassau County

We help homeowners with code violations across the county, including:


More Resources for Nassau County Homeowners


Disclaimer: Consistent Homebuyers is a real estate investment firm, not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice regarding Special Magistrate hearings or demolition orders. We recommend consulting with a Nassau County real estate attorney.