Frequently Asked Questions

Common Neighborhood Complaints & Code Violations

Please Note: Manatee County Does NOT Enforce Neighborhood Deed Restrictions


Home-Operated Businesses: Some restrictions might apply. Call (941) 749-3070 to learn how to get your home-based business up and running.

Address Numbers: Residential and commercial numbers must be a height of at least 4 inches and 6 inches, respectively, and on a structure that is visible from the street.

Outdoor Storage: Can only be stored in a rear yard and screened from view in an area that is no more than 200 SF.

Overgrown Yards: Properties must be mowed and maintained. Grass should be less than 16” in height to avoid unsanitary conditions.

Agricultural Animals: Residential properties are allowed to have up to 4 hens in a chicken coop or poultry house which measures at least 4 SF per hen. No other agricultural animals, including roosters, are allowed.

Trash & Debris: Must be properly stored in designated containers on the property.

Prohibited Signs: Not permitted in the public right of way. Learn how to display signs and announcements properly by calling (941) 749-3070.

Inoperable Vehicles: Any vehicle which is not permitted to operate on public roads under State of Florida laws is not allowed on a property, unless it is kept in an enclosed garage or building. Registration tags must be on all vehicles.

Restricted Vehicles: Must be stored in the side or rear yard or entirely within a carport or garage and not occupied, unless it is in an RV park.

Commercial Vehicles: In most areas, one commercial vehicle per residential property is permitted but must be parked off street in a garage, carport or driveway. Call (941) 748-2071 with any questions.

Vacant Properties: Properties that are vacant or in foreclosure must be registered through Manatee County Code Enforcement. Learn more

Building Permits: Required for new construction, renovations and alterations. This includes roofs, additions, pools and sheds. Call Development Services at (941) 749-3078 to learn more.

Contractor Licensing: All contractors performing work for which a license is required under Florida Statute 489 must be licensed and registered in Manatee County. Call Development Services at (941) 749-3078 with any registration questions.

How to File a Complaint

Please note that per Florida Statute Chapter 162, complainants must provide their names and addresses. Specify if you would like for a Code Enforcement Officer to get in touch with you after a complaint is investigated.

For after-hours noise issues, contact Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 747-3011.

Complaints can be submitted in the following ways:
(941) 748-2071
[email protected]
   Complete an Online Form
Regular Mail:
2101 47th Terrace East, Bradenton 34206
Fax: (941) 749-3094


For questions regarding Contractor Licensing, please call (941) 749-3078.

For the Unlicensed Contractor Hotline, please call (941) 749-3084.