Frequently Asked Questions

Service Area / Map: Unincorporated Pinellas County neighborhoods.

The following is a list of questions and answers that are commonly asked.

What makes my car an inoperative vehicle?
If your vehicle cannot be legally operated on the road because of a cracked or missing windshield, broken lights, etc., it is considered inoperative. If the tag is expired and/or the tires are flat, the vehicle is also presumed inoperative. These vehicles must be stored inside a fully enclosed garage or removed from the property.

Can I park my truck on my property? What is considered a prohibited vehicle?
Most family-use pick-up trucks, vans and utility trailer may be parked on your property. However, if the vehicle has been equipped with attachments such as racks or utility beds, the code allows only one vehicle per dwelling. The vehicle including its racks, cargo and equipment cannot be more than 8 feet tall, 8 feet wide and 21 feet long and must not be parked on the lawn. If you have a fully enclosed and permitted garage, a prohibited vehicle may be parked inside and not be a violation.

Do I need a permit to install a fence or a shed?
Permits are not required for chain link, wood or vinyl fences however, there are restrictions:
- Fences cannot be higher than 6 feet in height.
- Front yard setback fences cannot exceed 3 feet in height.
- Sheds for residential property less than 100 square feet and no taller than 10 feet do not require a permit. The shed must be placed a minimum of 2 feet from the property lines, unless the property is surrounded by a 6 foot tall opaque fence. Sheds larger than 100 square feet, require permits and must meet additional setback rules.

The unincorporated county has less code restrictions right?
The unincorporated areas of Pinellas County have been regulated by local ordinances and codes since 1963. Many municipalities and Pinellas County regulations are similar and address many of the same types of issues.

Why is “this” an issue now? It’s been like this for years and never been a concern.
A violation may have previously existed and only recently been reported to Code Enforcement.

How do I know what is allowed where I live?
If you live in Unincorporated Pinellas County, please call Development Review Services at (727) 464-3888 for assistance. To confirm your location, use My Neighborhood map. This map will tell you if you live in unincorporated Pinellas County or if you live in one of 24 cities/municipalities. If you live in a city/municipality, please contact them for more information.

Can I run my business from my house?
Some home occupations are allowed. To preserve the residential character of neighborhoods, home businesses are restricted. Generally, no retail traffic or customers may come to the residence and business activities should be invisible to the neighborhood. To ensure your business is allowed, please contact Development Review Services at (727) 464-3888.

Can I park a recreational vehicle at my property?
Travel trailers and motor homes are limited to 40 feet and must be operational and have a valid tag and registration. Connection to utilities is not permitted. Pinellas County Code Enforcement does not enforce deed restrictions. Residents should contact their homeowners association directly for information.

Who removes dead trees?
Property owners are responsible for tree removal on private property. Prior to the removal of any trees , please see information on Pinellas County Tree Removal / Permits.

What can be done about bees on private property?
Removal of bees on private property is the responsibility of the property owner.

In a community with a homeowners association, can Pinellas County enforce rules?
Pinellas County does not enforce the rules of the homeowners associations unless there is a direct violation of a county ordinance.