Fraudulent Fee Letters Targeting PZB Applicants
We’ve been made aware of a scam involving fraudulent letters and invoices sent on what appears to be official municipal letterhead, demanding additional “fees” before Planning & Zoning or Board (PZB) items are heard. These letters may ask recipients to wire funds.
Coral Gables will never ask you to wire money.
If you receive any request for payment or documentation, verify directly with the city through official contact channels before taking action.
If you suspect fraud or receive such a letter report it immediately to the Coral Gables Police non-emergency line at 305-442-1600.
Fraudulent Fee Requests Targeting PZB Applicants
The City of Coral Gables has also recently been made aware of a scam targeting applicants with items scheduled for upcoming Planning, Zoning, or Board (PZB) agendas.
There have been reports in other municipalities of applicants receiving fraudulent letters and invoices on what appears to be official municipal letterhead, demanding payment of additional fees, sometimes instructing recipients to wire funds to an unauthorized account.
Important reminders for applicants:
- The City of Coral Gables does not require payment by wire transfer.
- Always verify any fee request or documentation directly with the city via our official channels listed on CoralGables.com. Do not use phone numbers or email addresses provided in suspicious letters.
- If you receive a suspicious request, do not pay.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to the Coral Gables Police non-emergency line at 305-442-1600.
If you already sent money or shared information:
- Contact your bank or payment provider right away to attempt to stop or recover the transaction.
- Save all correspondence (letters, emails, envelopes, invoices).
- Call 305-442-1600 to file a report with Coral Gables Police (non-emergency).
For verification of any PZB fee or scheduling question, contact the city only through the official information listed on CoralGables.com or via your known staff contact.
