Permit Fraud Scandal Rocks Collier County: What Homeowners Need to Know

Based on the Gulfshore Business article “County says property owners will be dealing with effects of permit fraud” by Aisling Swift (April 8, 2025).

Photo credit: Gulfshore Business / Collier County

A Permit Scheme That Slipped Through the Cracks

In a shocking discovery, Collier County officials have uncovered a massive building permit fraud affecting over 400 properties — and the consequences are falling directly on homeowners.

The fraud centered around the unauthorized use of a retired architect’s identity. Despite being 91 years old and suffering from dementia, Gene Cravillion’s architectural seal was used on construction plans—without his knowledge or consent. Fraudsters even renewed his professional license and impersonated him in meetings.

Why did no one catch it? Because all the documents appeared legit. The seal matched a valid license number, and state records showed it as “active.” That meant county officials had no red flags when issuing building permits and certificates of occupancy.

What It Means for Homeowners

Unfortunately, homeowners are left cleaning up the mess.

• Projects are being halted due to fraudulent permits.

• Certificates of occupancy may be revoked, triggering costly re-inspections.

• Legal battles are emerging between owners, contractors, and the county.

• Many owners didn’t even know their plans were fake until investigators stepped in.

County officials say they followed proper procedures, pointing to a gap in the state’s licensing system that allowed the fraud to go unnoticed.

What’s Being Done

• The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) and the FBI are now involved.

• Collier County has updated its software and is reviewing thousands of past permits.

• Firms tied to the fraudulent plans have been issued cease-and-desist letters.

Officials say this is just the beginning — with potential statewide implications.

Lessons for Lee County & Beyond

If you’re a homeowner or planning construction:

✅ Double-check the architect or engineer listed on your permit.
✅ Ask to meet them or confirm directly.
✅ Monitor permit status using your county’s online portal.
✅ Keep copies of every plan and permit.

Bottom line: This could happen anywhere. Stay informed, ask questions, and keep a paper trail. And shout-out to Gulfshore Business for helping bring this to light.