What is the Florida building code?

The Florida Building Code is comprised of the Florida Building Code 2017 – 6th Edition, Florida Residential Code, Florida Mechanical Code, Florida Plumbing Code, National Electrical Code 2014, Florida Fuel Gas Code 2017, Florida Fire Prevention Code 6th Edition, Test protocols for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (This Section applies to Dade and Broward Counties only).

Do permits expire?

Yes, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. Failure to obtain an approved inspection within 180 days of the previously approved inspection shall constitute suspension or abandonment.

When are permit inspections required?

Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved. Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes. The building official shall be permitted to require a boundary line survey prepared by a qualified surveyor whenever the boundary lines cannot be readily determined in the field. Neither the building official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any material required to allow inspection.

Where do I post my permit during construction?

Permit packet with all documents received from the permitting department must be posted in a location where it can be seen from the street (ex. front door, front window, garage door) and accessible for the Inspector’s signature. If the permit is not visible when the inspector arrives this will result in a failed inspection

How do I schedule an inspection on my permit?

All inspections are handled through an automated system. When calling to request an inspection dial 386-575-6900 or 407-936-9999. A recording will ask you for your permit number, confirmation number, and inspection code number. These numbers are all located on your permit card. When all these numbers are entered, the inspection is automatically scheduled for the next business day.

When will the inspection be completed on my permit?

The requested inspection will be done the next business day following the request. The Building Services Division Inspectors begin their day at 7:30 in the morning and end at 4:00 pm. Inspections will be done at any time during this period. Items to be inspected should be ready for inspection before the inspector arrives.

Are after hours and weekend inspections available?

Yes. Special inspections are available for a fee. The fee for an after-hours inspection Weekdays, between 4:30 pm and 7:30 am, Monday through Thursday, is $50.00 per hour with a 2-hour minimum. The fee for an after-hours weekend inspection, done after 4:30 pm Friday and before 7:30 am Monday, is $50.00 per hour with a 4-hour minimum. Arrangements must be made and fees paid in advance. Contact our office at 386-878-8650, for details.

Can I do the work on my permit myself or do I have to hire a contractor?

Property owners may do work on their own property, except for propane tank installation, but all codes and ordinances must be met. The property owner shall fill out an “Owner-Builder Statement” when the permit application is made. The “Owner-Builder Statement” is to be signed when the Building Services Representative is receiving the application. Not in advance.