What is the standard for the burden of proof in a Code Case?

The standard for the burden of proof in a code case is best understood as "competent substantial evidence." This standard does not require proof beyond a reasonable doubt or clear and convincing evidence, which are often used in criminal cases or certain civil matters that demand a higher level of certainty. Instead, competent substantial evidence refers to the quantity and quality of evidence that would be sufficient for a reasonable person to support conclusions about whether a code violation has occurred.

This standard allows for a more flexible approach, enabling code enforcement officers to effectively argue their case based on the totality of evidence presented, as long as it is deemed credible and reliable. This is crucial in code enforcement, where decisions often must be made swiftly to ensure public health and safety, rather than requiring the heightened burden of proof necessary in other types of legal proceedings. It promotes the fair administration of code compliance while still maintaining a reasonable expectation of evidence quality.