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Building Permits

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Building Department

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# Permit Tracker

What is a Building Permit?

Hard HatIt is a legal document that gives you permission to start construction of a building project at an agreed upon location, within a set time frame, in accordance with approved drawings and specifications. It also gives lending institutions the assurance that the contractor is licensed, insured and has a legal right to build the project.

What is the Building Permitting process?

It's the process through which the County ensures compliance with the Florida Building Code, the Land Development Code and other County ordinances, relative to the construction of buildings and building sites.

1. Pre-Application Screening (PAS)

The County conducts a preliminary review of the project for compatibility with zoning, transportation, and environmental issues.

#Application

2. Plan Submittal & Review

Construction Plans meeting Florida Building Code requirements are submitted and then reviewed by licensed Plans Examiners. (only required for some projects including new construction, renovations and additions).
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3. Permit is issued with Notice of Commencement

If the Construction Plans are approved a permit is issued and a Notice is filed. The Notice allows material suppliers and subcontractors to file liens on a property if they are not paid by the contractor. A contractor who pulls a permit but does not perform or directly oversee the work can be held liable for damages and the unpaid debt on the project.

#Notice of Commencement

4. Inspections

Inspections are required at specific intervals during construction and upon completion of the project. The type of inspections required depend on your project type. For example, If you are rewiring a part of your home, only an Electrical inspection is required.
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5. Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.)

The Certificate of Occupancy is the final construction document that authorizes occupancy of a structure. A C.O. is a Permit that allows a business to operate in a specific location. The process of issuing a C.O. ensures that a business complies with zoning or land use ordinances as well as the structural and fire-life-safety codes of the County, thereby assuring the applicant that his/her business structure is ready for occupancy. This document is required of all business tenants in both existing structures and newly constructed buildings.

What home repairs and improvements require a permit?

Electrical

  • Electric; install or replace wire
  • Electric Service; work on existing service or panel (including upgrade)
  • Light; outdoor poles

Interior/Exterior Structures

  • Additions, Awnings, Carports, Covered Patios, Doors & Windows
  • Drywall; all repairs over 10 square feet
  • Lights; outdoor pole or temporary service
  • Load Bearing post; Replace or modify
  • Pool/spa enclosure
  • Pool/spa; install in-ground or above-ground
  • Railings; install, replace or repair
  • Remodeling; all interior and exterior
  • Roof; new and reroof
  • Screen Room
  • Screen room; install vinyl or glass in existing walls
  • Shed; install
  • Siding; new or replace
  • Soffit or Fascia; new or replace over 10 feet
  • Stairs; install, replace or repair
  • Walls; all interior or exterior removal, extension or new walls
  • Wood deck; install or repair (when over 30 inches above grade)

Heating & Air Conditioning

  • A/C; install central heat of A/C
  • A/C; install wall unit
  • A/C; replace heat condenser or air handler

Plumbing & Water Supply

  • Plumbing; install new
  • Sewer line; new or replace
  • Shower pan; replace
  • Spas; install
  • Water heater; replace any

When do I need a building permit?

Generally, when any owner, authorized agent, or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, a permit is required.
When purchasing a home or property, it is in your best interest to ensure that all structures have been properly permitted. You are legally responsible for any un-permitted structures. Use our Permit Tracker to verify that the structures on your property have a valid permit.

When is a permit not required?

Generally, Redecorating and minor repair jobs do not require a building permit. This includes replacing cabinets, replacing floor covering, painting and decorating, repairing drywall (under 10 sqft), replacing plumbing fixtures (if you are not altering the plumbing system), and replacing light fixtures and appliances (if you are not altering or replacing wiring).
If you are uncertain if you need a permit, call the Building Department staff at 352-374-5243, we will be happy to answer your questions.

If I get a permit, can I do the work myself?

Absolutely! You can perform any construction work on a home that you own, providing it is your homestead

What are the benefits to getting a permit?

One of the major benefits of obtaining a permit is having technical resources at your side, the certified building inspectors and plans examiners. Your Alachua County certified building inspectors and plans examiners, with years of trade experience and code training, can work with you during your project. They can answer questions, provide guidance before you start your project, and save you time, money, and frustration.

Is there a fee?

Yes. The fees vary and are based on the value of the project. You can estimate the permit fees from the fee schedule, or call us and we can give you an approximate cost over the phone.

What will I need to obtain a permit?

That depends on the nature of the project. For example, you will need to submit a site plan if you want to build a driveway, construction drawings if your building an addition, a whole set of construction documents if your building a new home, and any other documents as required by the Building Department. Please call us, or come by and explain your project to us and we can go from there.

How long is a permit valid for?

Building permits are valid for a period of 180 days. Construction must commence within that 180 day window.