Matlacha homeowner cited for unpermitted work done by previous owner

MATLACHA, Fla. (WINK) — A Matlacha homeowner has been cited by Lee County Code Enforcement for unpermitted work he says he never did.

Greg Knipp's home sits right on the water on Pine Island Road Northwest, just after the Matlacha Pass Bridge. The property has given him no problems for the several years he has owned it until now.

"Well, I'm kind of in trouble with code enforcement for something that I've not done," Knipp said.

Lee County Code Enforcement cited Knipp for his raised mobile home. He says he isn't the one who raised it.

"And so now they're telling me that I'm responsible for either putting the trailer back the way it originally was or I've got to buy a permit and comply with them," Knipp said.

Neighbors tell Knipp the home has been that way for more than 20 years. WINK News reached out to the county on his behalf.

Unfortunately for Knipp, it's buyer beware. A county spokesperson said when someone buys a property, it is their responsibility to confirm permitted work was performed.

A Lee County spokesperson added that when Knipp bought the property, he should have confirmed that all improvements to the property were properly permitted. Now that he owns the property, compliance is his responsibility.

If Knipp is able to get proof that the home was originally built that way in 1992 and it was permitted, it may help his case. For now, getting a permit is the only way to be in compliance.

He has until November. Lee County says the total cost of the permit and inspections will be close to $500.

The entire process takes about two weeks, but to provide the highest possible chance of meeting the deadline, the county recommends allowing for 30 days.