In a concerted effort to improve neighborhood safety and quality of life, the Town of Brookhaven has announced a significant increase in enforcement against illegal housing. Officials have implemented an amnesty period allowing homeowners to obtain necessary permits without penalties before the town intensifies fines on landlords and rental property owners violating local codes.
With a focus on code compliance and neighborhood safety, the initiative seeks to ensure that Brookhaven remains a desirable place to live by eliminating unsafe and unregulated housing conditions.
The amnesty period, which will be available until March 31, offers homeowners the opportunity to file for permits, renew expired permits, and legalize past work done without permits without facing any penalties or late fees. This initiative is designed to encourage property owners to voluntarily bring their properties up to code while avoiding potential legal and financial repercussions.
“Our goal is code compliance to ensure Brookhaven remains a place where people live in clean, safe neighborhoods,” said Supervisor Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches) (pictured above). “We’re going to break the slumlord business model with exponentially higher fines through robust enforcement.”
Following the conclusion of the amnesty period, the Town of Brookhaven will implement substantially increased fines for repeat offenders and landlords who continue to operate illegal housing units. Town officials emphasize that stricter enforcement measures will be taken against property owners who fail to comply with local housing laws.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is a top priority. Stronger enforcement isn’t just about fines, it’s about safe neighborhoods, protecting residents from unsafe conditions, and preserving the integrity of our town,” remarked Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point) (pictured above).
“Some of these housing violations are major safety issues that can very easily cause fire, injury, or death. By addressing violators, we protect communities and save lives,” said Councilman Michael Loguercio (R-Ridge) (pictured below).
“It’s disheartening to see both first-time and repeat offenders undermining efforts of responsible property owners,” stated Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella (R-Moriches).
Legislator and Majority Leader Nick Caracappa (C-Selden) echoed this by saying, “This is a welcome cooperative effort on the part of the town and county, and I applaud the program to deter our neighbors from breaking the law.”
Legislator Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue) added, “We have to crack down on that. These steps the town is taking to increase fines are a big step.”
Illegal housing can create dangerous living conditions, including overcrowding, fire hazards, and structural instability. The town’s stepped-up enforcement is intended to protect tenants and prevent illegal housing from negatively impacting surrounding communities.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal housing to the town’s code enforcement office. In conjunction with the increased enforcement, Brookhaven officials will also be conducting more frequent inspections and proactive investigations to identify and rectify illegal housing violations.
Residents and civic leaders have largely expressed support for the initiative, citing concerns about declining neighborhood conditions due to illegal housing. Frank Fugarino, from Pattersquash Civic Association said, “We welcome this effort and commend the Town for this initiative at both the Town and County level.”
The town encourages all homeowners and landlords to take advantage of the amnesty period while it lasts. Property owners seeking to legalize past work or bring property into compliance can visit the town’s permitting office or website for guidance on the application process and are able to do so with no extra fees.
As Brookhaven strengthens its enforcement efforts, town officials remain committed to working with homeowners, tenants, and community organizations to ensure that all housing meets safety standards.
The combination of incentives for compliance and stricter penalties for repeat offenders reflects the town’s dedication to maintaining a safe, clean, and livable environment for all residents.