If you are an owner of a vacant, foreclosed, blighted, unsecured, or abandoned structure in the City of Palatka, you, according to City Code, have the responsibility to register and maintain your property.
If you have questions, please contact the City of Palatka Code Enforcement Department at codeenforcement@palatka-fl.gov or (386) 329-0100 ext. 331.
Registration
The City of Palatka registration of vacant, foreclosed, blighted, unsecured or abandoned structures is provided by Orange Data Systems.
To register a property with the City of Palatka, navigate to Orange Data. Select "Register Your Property." If you don't have an account, choose "Create an Account" and follow the provided steps. Those with an existing account can log in using your credentials. Remember, property registration is only complete upon payment. You'll receive a confirmation email once your property is successfully registered. If you have a bulk property registration involving 10 or more properties, it's best to contact Orange Data Systems. If you need assistance during the registration process or encounter website issues, contact Orange Data Systems via email at register@orangedata.com or by phone at 407-965-4245.
Lien Searches
The City of Palatka has partnered with Orange Lien Data, LLC to streamline the processing of lien search requests. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of lien searches, benefiting residents, businesses, and stakeholders. Orange Lien Data, known for its innovative and reliable lien data solutions.
To establish an Orange Lien Data, LLC account to conduct your search, visit orangelien.com.
In addition to registering your property, City ordinances say you are responsible for the following rules and regulations that apply to your foreclosed, blighted, unsecured, or abandoned structures in the City.
Failure to comply may result in code enforcement action, click here for more information
Securing the Structure:
Blighted, unsecured, or abandoned structures must ensure that all entrances and openings, including windows and doorways, are properly secured using approved materials that fully seal all openings, safeguarding the interior from natural elements like wind and rain.
Entrances and windows above ground level must be considered secure if they are locked and not accessible for entry. Windows should have intact glass or protective shutters to prevent entry.
In cases where a code enforcement officer identifies a violation of this requirement, they can issue a Notice of Violation (NOV), mandating the structure's repair within a specified timeframe.
Metallic coverings used for securement must be made of 14-gauge rust-proof steel sheet metal, allowing ventilation and equipped with an exterior finish facilitating graffiti removal. They should also be designed to prevent removal from the outside using prying tools, with threaded rods or cables attached internally to a steel cross-brace spanning the opening.
Removal of Unauthorized Items:
Owners of vacant, blighted, unsecured, or abandoned structures must promptly remove unauthorized signs, posters, and graffiti from the exterior unless exempted by this article or the city's zoning ordinance.
Pest Control:
It is the responsibility of every owner of such properties to maintain the premises free from rodents, insects, vermin, and other wild animals.
Roof Drainage:
You must have adequate rainwater drainage from the structure's roof.
Exterior Appearance:
All materials used for securing blighted, unsecured, or abandoned structures should be painted in a professional manner, matching the color of the structure's other exterior walls.
Posting Contact Information:
When a property becomes vacant and/or abandoned, the owner must display the name and contact details of a local property manager available 24/7.
This notice should be positioned near the main entrance of the structure and contain language similar to: "This property is managed by (name of local property manager). To report problems or concerns, call (telephone number of local property manager)."
