Code magistrate orders electrical cap within 14 days and 120 days to fix gas-station canopy issues

Special Code Enforcement Magistrate Steve Villaroche ordered that exposed electrical work at a gas station on South Atlantic Avenue be capped and signed off by the city within 14 days and gave the property owner 120 days to complete remaining canopy and pole repairs.

The case (25-0018) centered on the gas pump area at 7113210 South Atlantic Avenue, where code staff reported freestanding canopy poles and light fixtures installed without required permits, bollards exhibiting significant rust and exposed wiring that remained uncapped. The inspector told the magistrate a portal permit was submitted on Oct. 28, but the submission lacked the documentation needed for review and had not been issued.

The property representative described a history of post‑hurricane repairs, multiple subcontractors and an insurance process; the owner or manager said they are coordinating with Chevron approvals and a contractor and estimated work could be done in about 90 days but requested extra time.

Because exposed electrical wiring near gasoline pumps presents a public-safety risk, building official Steve Edmonds urged expedited electrical sign-off. Magistrate Villaroche amended his order to require that the electrical work be capped and signed off by the city within 14 days, set a 120-day deadline for remaining repairs and ordered payment of $149.09 in hearing costs within 30 days.

The magistrate emphasized safety concerns tied to exposed electrical fittings near fuel dispensers and said the city would expect inspected, permitted and signed work to prevent ignition hazards. The order sets a short, specific deadline for the electrical hazard and a longer remedial window for other structural and canopy work.