Pasco County Code Violations: Demolition Orders, “Substantial Damage” & Liens
In Pasco County, code enforcement is managed by Code Compliance and the Building Construction Services department. While they handle standard complaints, their most aggressive enforcement targets Unsafe Structures and properties with Substantial Damage from storms.
For 2026, Pasco County is strictly enforcing the FEMA 50% Rule. If your home (especially in coastal areas like Hudson or New Port Richey) has damage exceeding 50% of its market value, you cannot simply patch it up. You must bring the entire structure up to current flood codes or face a Demolition Order.
This guide explains the Pasco County demolition process, the “Substantial Damage” trap, and how to sell your property to a cash buyer to avoid a County demolition lien.
The 3 Most Common Code Violations in Pasco County
Pasco County inspectors enforce the Code of Ordinances across unincorporated areas (Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Hudson).
1. Unsafe Structures & Substantial Damage
- The Rule: A structure is “Unsafe” if it is dilapidated, dangerous, or has suffered “Substantial Damage” (repair costs > 50% of value).
- The Process: You receive a 30-Day Notice to repair or demolish. If the damage is “Substantial,” you must submit a “Substantial Improvement Package” proving you can elevate the home or bring it to code.
- The Consequence: If you cannot afford the major renovations, the County will issue a Demolition Order. They will hire a contractor to tear it down and place a lien on your land for the cost (often $10,000+).
2. Accumulation & Illegal Dumping
- The Issue: Pasco County targets “blighted” properties with excessive trash, tires, or outdoor storage of junk.
- The Fine: If not cleaned, the County uses a “Clean and Lien” process. They enter the property, remove the debris, and bill you for the labor and disposal fees.
3. Commercial Vehicles in Residential Zones
- The Rule: You cannot park commercial vehicles (over 10,000 lbs or with signage) in residential driveways in unincorporated Pasco. This is a common violation in non-HOA neighborhoods in Land O’ Lakes.
- The Fine: Violations are treated as Class III offenses, starting with fines of roughly $150–$250 per citation.
The 2026 Civil Fine Schedule
Pasco County uses a “Uniform Fine Schedule” for code violations. If a case goes to the Code Enforcement Board (PCCEB), the daily fines can escalate quickly.
| Violation Type | Fine Amount | Max Penalty |
| Class III (Standard) | $150 – $250 / citation | Unlimited |
| Repeat Violation | $500 / day | Unlimited |
| Unsafe Structure | Demolition Cost + Admin Fees | Lien on Land |
Warning: Demolition liens in Pasco County are “Super Priority.” They attach to the land immediately and must be paid before you can sell or build on the lot.
Your Options: Elevate, Demolish, or Sell?
Option 1: The “Substantial Improvement” Route
- The Process: If your home is substantially damaged, you must hire an engineer and contractor to elevate the structure above the base flood elevation.
- The Cost: This renovation often costs $100,000+, which may exceed the value of the home itself.
Option 2: Demolish It Yourself
- The Process: You can apply for a demolition permit and hire a private contractor to remove the structure.
- The Benefit: You avoid the County’s administrative fees and “super lien,” keeping the land clear for future sale.
Option 3: Sell “As-Is” (The Land Value Play)
If you are facing a $100,000 renovation bill for a mobile home in Hudson or a storm-damaged house in Holiday, selling the land to a cash buyer is a financial life-raft.
We Buy Pasco County Properties with Violations.
- We Buy “Substantially Damaged” Homes: We purchase storm-damaged properties that trigger the 50% Rule. We handle the County engineering requirements.
- We Pay Demolition Liens: If the County has already demolished the structure, we can pay off the assessment lien at closing.
- We Buy “Blighted” Land: We buy lots full of tires, trash, and debris. You walk away without lifting a finger.
Important Contact Information
- Pasco County Code Compliance
- West Pasco: 8731 Citizens Dr, New Port Richey, FL 34654
- East Pasco: 14236 6th St, Dade City, FL 33523
- Phone: (727) 847-2411
- Website: pascocountyfl.gov/services/code_compliance
- Building Construction Services (Permits)
- Phone: (727) 847-8126 (Flood Info)
Stop The Demolition Order. Sell Your Land Today.
If you have received a “Substantial Damage” letter or a Demolition Order in Pasco County, fill out the form below. We provide fair cash offers for land and properties with code issues.
Areas We Serve in Pasco County
We help homeowners with code violations across the county, including:
More Resources for Pasco County Homeowners
- Looking for a standard sale? Visit our main page for We Buy Houses in Pasco County.
- Facing Eviction? If you have bad tenants and code violations, visit our guide on Eviction Process in Pasco County.
- Behind on Taxes? See our guide on Tax Delinquency in Pasco County.
- Inherited a House? Visit our guide on Probate & Inheritance in Pasco County.
- Back to Main Guide: Return to our overview on Code Violations & Red Tags.
Disclaimer: Consistent Homebuyers is a real estate investment firm, not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice regarding FEMA 50% Rule calculations or demolition orders. We recommend consulting with a Pasco County land use attorney.