My 2 Cents on Code Enf. [kinda long]

[Solar Girl <solargrl@gte.net>]

Code Enforcement paid a visit within 24 hours after I parked my RV on my vacant 
suburban lot [bought from the county for back taxes] and set up housekeeping (as a 
single parent who refuses public assistance, it was either that or move to the projects 
while I go to school full time).  They talked to my son in my absence and said I 
couldn't occupy my own RV on my own land because my lot wasn't zoned as an RV park.  I 
called the inspector and left a message that this was temporary until I could build; I 
was being careful and hauling out my waste properly.  I was desparate.  I waited to see 
what would happen. 

	Nothing did for 4 months.  Then I got a notice of violation 4 days before 
Christmas, that I had to "remove the RV."  Discouraged, I left another message that I 
would comply as soon as the holidays were over.  

	Next, I visited the Bldg Dept to see if I could legally repair and live in the 
dilapidated, free-standing garage on the lot until my house is built. I was ushered in 
to the head honcho's office, who said, "You didn't hear this from me, but if I were in 
your shoes, I think I'd forget the garage, and just park an RV in the driveway and move 
in!"  I laughed and told him, been there, done that.. That kind of broke the ice and I 
was issued a permit for the garage.  

	After that, I got a phone message from the code inspector [we've never actually 
conversed to this day], who said they didn't realize I'd bought the property, they had 
thought I was a squatter, and now they'd leave me alone and give me as much time as I 
needed till I get my house built.  So my opinion right now is that they're not so bad -- 
however, that may be subject to change when they learn I want to be the first [correct 
me if I'm wrong?] Floridian to build an off-grid strawbale house w/solar composting 
toilet, rain catchment and graywater system.........

To be continued as the saga unfolds!
Bonnie