Helpful Videos and Guides on the new 2025.1 EnerGov Upgrade 

1.  Why do I need a permit?
   
   The Florida Building Code (101.3) states that the “code establishes the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength… and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations”.
   
   
2. When is a permit required?
   
   Per Florida Building Code (102.2), a permit shall apply to the construction, erection, alteration, modification, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every public and private building, structure or facility or floating residential structure, or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings, structures, or facilities.
   
   
3. How much will my permit cost?
   
   The cost of a permit varies depending on the permit type. The fee schedule is available on our website. However, for value-based permits, the fee is calculated by staff.
   
   
4. What happens if I choose not to obtain the required permits?
   
   

   Contractor Licensing and or Code Enforcement will issue a notice. There is a penalty for working without a permit. The fee is double for an after-the-fact permit. Additionally, if work areas are concealed, a third-party engineering analysis may be required at your cost. If no action is taken, a Notice of Violation will be issued, which could result in fines and a lien on the property.

5. Do I need a contractor?

   Not if you own and occupy the house. State statutes 489.103(7) allow the owners of real property to act as their contractor. This exemption may only be used if you own and occupy the home. As an owner builder, though, if you do not complete all the work yourself, you must supervise the work and hire licensed trade subcontractors (electrician, plumbing, a/c, and roof) under state law. Owners acting as their own contractor or listed as a subcontractor are required to personally appear and sign the permit application per Florida Statute 489.103(7).

6. If I use a contractor, what guidelines should I use to choose one?

   • Ask for and check references and ask to see their state license. Check the number on the state website (www.myfloridalicense.com) for any state complaints.
   • If they ask you to secure the permit, beware. They may not be licensed, which puts the homeowner totally at risk.
   • You should be wary if a contractor wants to be paid in full before starting the job. A reputable, licensed contractor typically requests a down payment and payments in increments as the job progresses.
   • Always get a written contract with a set cost for any work to be done at your home.
     
     

7. How long does it take to get a permit?
   
   Our goal is that, depending on workload and whether all required documents are provided, a Building Permit can be obtained within 14 workdays. Minor permits are usually approved within 24 – 48 hours.

8. What happens after the permit is issued? 
   
   The list of required inspections is provided with the permit placard. Instructions on scheduling these inspections will be provided when your permit is issued. The applicants (Owner Builder/Contractor) are responsible for ensuring that all required inspections are made before proceeding with work on the project. New Home- Once all fees are paid and all required inspections are completed, the applicant will be issued a CO (Certificate of Occupancy). Upon request, a COC (Certificate of Completion) for minor projects can be obtained.

9. How much time do I have once the permit is issued? 

   Permits expire and become null and void if work is not started and an inspection is not requested within 180 days. After work has commenced, the permit will expire when work is suspended or abandoned within the same time frames. The lack of an approved inspection within this time will serve as validation that the job has been suspended or abandoned.

10. Where is the permitting office?
    
    The permit center address and hours of operation:
    Permit Office
    Open Monday - Friday
    8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
    2300 Virginia Avenue – First Floor – southwest corner of building
    (772)-462-1553