Florida permits
Do you need a permit in Florida?
Florida enforces the Florida Building Code (FBC) statewide, with stricter provisions in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) covering Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Permits are pulled at the county or municipality level. Florida licenses contractors through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Homeowners can act as their own contractor for their primary residence under the owner-builder exemption, but cannot do so to sell or rent within one year.
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These are statewide ranges. Get your exact Florida cost for your zip code and project size.
Can a homeowner pull the permit?
Yes, in most cases. Owner-builder exemption applies to primary residence only. Cannot sell or rent within 12 months of completion. Owner-builder is personally liable for code compliance and worker injury.
Where to file: County building department or city building department, depending on jurisdiction. Most major counties (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Orange, Hillsborough) have online permit portals. Small counties may still be in-person. Plan review for new construction in HVHZ counties can take 3-6 weeks.
Permits by trade in Florida
| Trade | When required | Citation | Typical fee | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plumbing | In-wall work, water heater replacement, fixture changes with new supply | FBC Plumbing | $75-$300 | Conditional |
| Electrical | New circuits, panel work, service upgrades, EV charger | FBC + 2017 NEC | $75-$250 | Conditional |
| Mechanical (HVAC) | AC change-out, ductwork, refrigerant work | FBC Mechanical | $100-$300 | No |
| Building (structural) | Additions, structural modifications, screened enclosures, decks | FBC Residential | $200-$1,000 | Yes |
| Roofing | Re-roofs (statewide), secondary water barrier (post-2007 builds) | FBC Section 1517 | $150-$500 | Yes |
| Pool / barrier | Any new pool, pool fence repair, gate replacement | F.S. 515 Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act | $100-$400 | Yes |
Hover a Conditional or No entry for the homeowner rule. Always confirm with your local building department, since requirements vary by jurisdiction.
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