Volusia County, FL Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Under Volusia County Code of Ordinances Chapter 50 (Environment and Natural Resources) and related nuisance provisions, owners of vacant lots in unincorporated Volusia must maintain vegetation (grass and weeds generally must not exceed roughly 18 inches), remove accumulated trash, debris, tires, appliances, and abandoned vehicles, and prevent illegal dumping. Lots abutting residential parcels receive priority enforcement. Code enforcement issues a Notice of Violation under FS Ch. 162; non-compliance may result in Code Enforcement Board or Special Magistrate fines up to $250/day (first) or $500/day (repeat). Per FS §162.09 the county may abate the nuisance directly, typically charging $150 to $500+ per mowing or cleanup, with unpaid costs recorded as a lien against the parcel. Lots in designated coastal or sea turtle nesting areas are additionally subject to sea turtle lighting and dune protection rules (FS §161.163). Lots within the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) wetlands or floodplain cannot be filled or cleared beyond permitted scope. FL Right to Farm Act (§823.14) may exempt active bona fide farm operations from certain nuisance claims.