Multiple condo owner never sets up association, gets charged by state

I purchased 6 townhouses all together - one small building about 6 years ago. I never formed an association because I owned all properties and were using them as rentals. When I purchased the properties no one told me you had to go to department of business and professional regulation of Florida condos, timeshares and mobile homes and pay a fee. I have never been notified by them till today. They sent me a bill for the last 5 years plus penalties because they said I owned all 6 I still have to pay. Why wouldn't they send me a bill originally.  I had no idea.  I already pay them - a  hotels and restaurants a fee because if you have more then 4 properties together you have to pay that fee. I mean seriously..I call them up today because this is the first time I am hearing about this and the rude lady said I should of known and tough they can't waive any fees and it's not their responsibility to notify me? How is an owner suppose to know when there is no association as I own the whole building. By the way..those are the rudest people I have ever spoken to.