The Process Of Obtaining Permits – A Comprehensive Guide

get free consultation

Fill out the below form and we'll respond back to you shortly.

Permit For Construction – Why Do You Need It?

A permit for building from the relevant regulatory building authorities in your area gives you the autonomy and legal rights to execute specified types of projects for construction. The construction project can be anything from a new construction building, a new front door, or a kitchen remodel.

The City issues separate permits depending on certain factors, including but limited to:

The purpose of a building permit is to ensure safety of the people occupying the building and the surrounding community. The permit ensures that the contractors and builders abide by the building code and do not violate any rules and laws.

The process, however, is tedious, and the building officials go through all the applications and only approve them once they are fully satisfied with the project, that the plan, specifications, and calculations all align with the relevant codes of the building that exist in the City Departments.

Everything you need to know about the importance of Building permits, and how They Are obtained and utilized throughout your renovation project.

Applying for and acquiring building permits may initially feel intimidating or burdensome. However, with the right guidance and tools, the permit application process can be executed more efficiently- saving you time and money. With everyone’s expectations in correct order, we can successfully and efficiently collaborate on your project and work through this together.

The most important thing to understand is that securing a permit guarantees that your renovation adheres to local building codes and safety regulations, confirming the project’s legal completion. Undertaking a renovation project without the necessary permits can lead to legal consequences, such as fines, penalties, or even forced removal of the unpermitted work.

Although some may be tempted to try and proceed with work without a permit, the above reasons further solidify why this step is crucial. In the following, we outline the detailed steps involved in obtaining a permit and provide a comprehensive FAQ section to address all your inquiries.

Step 1: Define The Scope of Your Project

Begin by establishing a clear understanding of your project and precisely defining your objectives. This may range from a simple bathroom remodel, such as converting a bathtub into a walk-in shower, to more complex tasks like adding a new room or altering your home’s layout. Regardless of the project scope, effectively communicating your vision is essential for professionals to assist you efficiently. If you are unsure of your exact goals and only have a vague concept, consult with an interior designer or architect first to clarify the project scope before reaching out to a general contractor.

Need recommendations? Ask us for our recommended interior designers and architects in South Florida.

Step 2: Hire The Professionals

Four types of professionals play a crucial role in the pre-construction phase of your project: a designer, an architect, an engineer, and a general contractor. These experts collaborate to realize your vision while addressing building codes, design, materials, zoning, feasibility, labor costs, and other factors. Prior to progressing to the subsequent stage, ensure that your engineer has effectively prepared and signed off on the set of drawings and plans for your renovation project.

See in FAQ below:
Why do I need an architect?
Do I need to hire a designer?

Step 3: Prepare The Documentation

Compile all necessary documentation for your permit application, including completed application forms, architectural and engineering plans, site plans, and any additional supporting documents. Ensure all required information is accurate, clear, and complete.

Step 4: Review Completed Architectural and Engineering Plans With a General Contractor

Once you obtain the plans, you’ll want to reach out to your General Contractor for them to review. Having your General Contractor review your architectural and engineering plans before applying for a permit can be highly beneficial for several reasons. A General Contractor possesses practical knowledge of construction techniques and materials, which can help identify potential issues or challenges in the proposed plans. They can provide valuable input on the constructibility, sequencing, and feasibility of the design, reducing the likelihood of problems during the construction phase.
General Contractors are also familiar with local building codes and regulations, and their review can help ensure that your plans adhere to these requirements. Identifying and addressing code compliance issues at this stage can save time and effort by avoiding delays, revisions, or rejections during the permitting process.

Lastly, they’ll be able to provide cost estimates for your project based on the proposed plans, helping you refine your budget and identify potential cost-saving opportunities. Accurate cost projections can also assist in securing financing and making informed decisions about the project scope and design.

Step 5: Adjust Plans to Align with Your Budget (if not needed, skip to step 6)

When presenting your Architectural and Engineering plans to your General Contractor, they will determine the labor and materials needed to successfully carry out your project. It’s possible that adjustments may be necessary to stay within your budget comfortably. It’s important to make any changes before submitting your permit application, as revisions made afterward can result in significant delays for your project. Every detail in your plan undergoes careful review by multiple departments within the local government. If revisions are made post-submission, you will need to resubmit the changes and undergo the entire review process again.

Furthermore, a General Contractor is legally permitted to perform only the work specified in the approved plans. Requesting your General Contractor to carry out modified or additional tasks beyond the approved scope jeopardizes their licensing. As a result, they will not undertake any work that deviates from the approved plans.

Step 6: Submit your permit application and pay the permit application fee

It’s important to submit the application package online or in-person at the Building Department to apply for the Permit. This must include the following:

  • A complete application, related forms, and checklists
  • A deposit for the plan review
  • Copies of the required project plans
  • All supporting documents, such as soil analysis, energy, structural and other

If you are in Miami-Dade and planning to apply for your Building Permit, you can file your application online on the Electronic Plan Review (ePlan). This portal has been recently implemented by the City of Miami to make the process easier.

Step 7: Wait as your permit is reviewed by your local building department

After submitting your permit application and paying the application fee, you will need to wait for your local building department to carefully review your application. The timeframe for a permit approval varies greatly and depends on several factors. Please note, your General Contractor does not control or have influence over how long the permit review will take. A General Contractor can assist by hiring a Permit Runner who can help you submit the permit application and periodically check in on the review status, which may help move things along.

Curious to know how long this process will take? Fast track to our FAQ where we answer this in more detail.

Step 8: Address the Comments and Requested Revisions On Your Application

Upon submitting your permit application, it is common for the local building department to provide feedback and request revisions. While it’s possible for your application to be approved without any comments or changes, it is more likely that some adjustments will be required before approval is granted. It’s crucial to anticipate these requests from your local building department, allowing you to manage your expectations and minimize any potential frustration during this process. As your General Contractor, they will be available to help you understand the reasons behind these revision requests and assist you in coordinating the necessary modifications with the Architect and Engineer.

Step 9: Receive Final Approval Across All Departments

Success! Your application has been approved by your city and you’re ready to get started.

Step 10: Re-Engage With Your General Contractor to Begin Work

Upon receiving your permit, your General Contractor will also be notified and will initiate contact to begin planning and scheduling your project. The primary focus during this phase will be on organization and timeline management. It is important to note that even though your permit application has been approved, it does not guarantee your General Contractor can commence work on your project immediately. While they will make every effort to set your project in motion as promptly as possible, your General Contractor manages multiple projects in various stages and will require time to coordinate and prepare for the successful execution of your renovation project.

Step 11: Schedule Inspections

Prior to the final inspection, the General Contractor should ensure that all work has been completed according to the approved plans and in compliance with local building codes. This includes verifying that all necessary permits have been obtained, and any required inspections have been conducted during the construction process. It may also be helpful to compile any relevant documentation, such as receipts, warranty information, and inspection reports, to present to the inspector during the final inspection.

Step 12: Complete your project and close the permit

Once the renovation project is complete or nearing completion, the General Contractor or property owner will need to contact the local building department to schedule a final inspection. This request should be made in advance to accommodate the inspector’s schedule and any potential rescheduling needs.

During the final inspection, a building inspector will visit the project site and evaluate the completed work to verify that it complies with the approved plans and meets all applicable codes and regulations. The inspector may examine various aspects of the project, such as structural integrity, electrical installations, plumbing systems, and mechanical systems. They may also check for compliance with energy efficiency standards, accessibility requirements, and any other relevant regulations.

Addressing inspection findings: If the inspector identifies any issues or discrepancies during the final inspection, they will typically provide a list of necessary corrections or modifications. The General Contractor or property owner is responsible for addressing these items and scheduling a follow-up inspection, if needed.

Things You Must Know Before Getting Your Permit

Before you apply for a permit in Florida, you must know a few things. In the U.S., the application for getting your permit for construction may differ from state to state, but the procedure and prerequisites are generally the same.

If you are in Florida, you must know that most construction projects, no matter the size, require a permit. Depending on your city and the project you plan to work on, you may need some additional permits from other government regulations or City Departments in Florida

A Step Wise Permitting Process

The purpose of a building permit is to ensure safety of the people occupying the building and the surrounding community. The permit ensures that the contractors and builders abide by the building code and do not violate any rules and laws.

The process, however, is tedious, and the building officials go through all the applications and only approve them once they are fully satisfied with the project, that the plan, specifications, and calculations all align with the relevant codes of the building that exist in the City Departments.

Frequently Asked Questions

The time it takes to obtain a permit can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the specific types of permits required, and the workload of the local permitting office. On average, you can expect the following timeframes:

  1. Minor renovation projects: For smaller projects with straightforward permitting requirements, such as interior remodeling or simple repairs, the permit approval process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
  2. Major renovation projects: For more complex projects that involve structural changes, multiple permits, or extensive plan review, the permit approval process can take several weeks to a few months.

It’s important to note that these timeframes are only approximate and can be influenced by factors such as the volume of permit applications being processed, the responsiveness of the applicant in addressing any required changes or additional information, and the coordination between various departments reviewing the application.

To expedite the permitting process, ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted with all the necessary documentation, including detailed plans and specifications. Additionally, promptly addressing any requests for changes or additional information from the permitting office can help avoid delays.

It is always a good idea to plan for some buffer time in your project schedule to account for potential delays in the permitting process. By being prepared and proactive, you can help ensure a smoother and more efficient experience in obtaining your renovation permit where everyone’s expectations are within reason.

Obtaining a permit for a renovation project is essential for several reasons, all of which contribute to the safety, compliance, and long-term value of your property. Here are the key reasons why it is necessary to secure a permit for your renovation project:

  1. Safety: The primary objective of the permitting process is to ensure the safety of the occupants and the general public. By adhering to local building codes and regulations, permits ensure that the construction or renovation work is completed in a safe and structurally sound manner, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, or property damage.
  2. Compliance: Securing a permit ensures that your renovation project complies with local building codes, zoning regulations, and other relevant laws. Compliance with these regulations not only guarantees the safety and structural integrity of your project but also helps maintain the aesthetic and functional standards of the community.
  3. Legal Ramifications: Undertaking a renovation project without the necessary permits can lead to legal consequences, such as fines, penalties, or even forced removal of the unpermitted work. By obtaining a permit, you protect yourself from potential legal issues and ensure that your renovation project is in compliance with local regulations.
  4. Inspections: The permit process includes mandatory inspections at various stages of your project. These inspections are conducted by qualified professionals who verify that the work being done meets the established codes and regulations. This oversight helps identify and correct any potential issues early in the project, preventing costly repairs or modifications later on.
  5. Property Value: Properly permitted and inspected renovation projects contribute positively to the value of your property. When it’s time to sell or refinance your property, potential buyers or lenders will likely request documentation proving that all work was completed with the necessary permits. Without proper permits, your property value may be negatively affected, and you could face difficulties in securing financing or selling your property.

In summary, obtaining a permit for your renovation project is crucial to ensure safety, compliance with local regulations, proper inspections, preservation of property value, and avoidance of legal issues. The permitting process ultimately safeguards the interests of both property owners and the community at large.

While it may seem advantageous to obtain a permit before hiring a general contractor, doing so can result in missed opportunities for valuable input, potential changes to the project scope, inaccuracies in the permit application, scheduling difficulties, and budgeting challenges. Listed are potential drawbacks to consider for obtaining a permit before hiring a general contractor:

  1. Contractor Input: By securing a permit before hiring a general contractor, you may miss out on valuable insights and expertise that the contractor can offer during the planning and permitting stages. An experienced contractor can provide recommendations on materials, construction techniques, and design elements that may impact the scope, cost, and timeline of your project. Their input can help you avoid potential issues and optimize the overall success of your renovation.
  2. Changes to Project Scope: Hiring a general contractor after obtaining a permit may lead to changes in the project scope or design, which could require additional revisions to your permit application or even a new permit altogether. This can result in delays, increased costs, and additional administrative work.
  3. Accurate Permit Application: A general contractor’s expertise can be invaluable when it comes to preparing an accurate permit application. They can help you determine the exact types of permits required for your project, ensure all necessary documentation is in order, and provide relevant information about their license and insurance coverage. This can help streamline the permitting process and avoid potential issues or delays.
  4. Contractor Availability and Scheduling: If you obtain a permit before hiring a general contractor, you may face difficulties coordinating the project timeline with the contractor’s availability. Permits typically have expiration dates, and if you can’t find a suitable contractor within that time frame, you may have to reapply for the permit, incurring additional costs and delays.

Cost Estimates and Budgeting: General contractors can provide cost estimates for your renovation project, which can be useful when budgeting and applying for permits. Obtaining a permit before hiring a contractor may lead to inaccurate cost projections and potential budget overruns.

Hiring an architect to create plans for your renovation project is crucial. While not always required (depending on the project scale and complexity), involving an architect can significantly enhance the design, functionality, and overall success of your project. Here are the key reasons why you might consider hiring an architect for your renovation:

  • Expertise in design and planning: Architects possess extensive knowledge in designing and planning building projects. They can help you develop a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, ensuring that your renovation project meets your needs and expectations while complying with local building codes and regulations.
  • Structural considerations: If your renovation project involves significant structural changes, such as removing or adding walls, modifying load-bearing elements, or expanding the footprint of your property, an architect can provide valuable input on the feasibility, safety, and structural implications of these changes.
  • Navigating the permitting process: Architects are well-versed in local building codes, zoning regulations, and the permitting process. They can help you prepare the necessary documentation, drawings, and plans for your permit application, ensuring that your project is in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Coordination with contractors and other professionals: An architect can act as a liaison between you and the various professionals involved in your renovation project, such as contractors, engineers, and interior designers. They can help coordinate the work of these professionals, ensuring that your project progresses smoothly and efficiently.

Hiring an interior designer for your project is not a legal requirement, but it can be a valuable decision depending on the scope and complexity of your project. If your renovation project involves significant structural changes, complex design elements, or requires a high level of coordination between various professionals, an interior designer can provide valuable expertise and guidance. They can help you navigate the permitting process, collaborate with contractors and architects, and ensure that the final result aligns with your vision. Considering time management, an interior designer can save you time by streamlining the decision-making process, coordinating with contractors and other professionals, and overseeing the project timeline. Aside from that, they can help you make informed decisions about the style, color schemes, materials, and furnishings for your renovation project. Their expertise in design trends, space planning, and visual presentation can elevate the overall aesthetic of your space and ensure a cohesive look throughout your property.

When you submit a building permit application, various departments within the local government review the application to ensure compliance with different codes and regulations. The specific departments involved in the review process may vary depending on your location, but generally, the following departments review a building permit application:

  1. Building Department: The Building Department is primarily responsible for reviewing the structural aspects of your project, ensuring that it complies with local building codes and construction standards. They will assess factors such as load-bearing capacity, building materials, and construction techniques.
  2. Zoning Department: The Zoning Department evaluates your project to ensure it aligns with local zoning regulations, which dictate land use, building setbacks, height restrictions, and other factors related to property development. They will verify that your project adheres to the zoning requirements for your property’s specific zoning classification.
  3. Planning Department: The Planning Department may review your application to ensure that your project aligns with the broader planning goals and policies of the community. This can include considerations such as environmental impact, aesthetic design, and neighborhood compatibility.
  4. Fire Department: The Fire Department reviews your application to ensure that your project complies with fire safety regulations, including provisions for fire-resistant materials, fire alarm systems, fire suppression equipment, and emergency access routes.
  5. Electrical Department: The Electrical Department reviews electrical work in your project to ensure that it adheres to local electrical codes and safety standards.
  6. Plumbing Department: The Plumbing Department reviews plumbing systems, including water supply lines, sanitary sewer connections, and gas piping, to ensure compliance with local plumbing codes and regulations.
  7. Mechanical Department: The Mechanical Department reviews HVAC systems, ductwork, and other mechanical installations in your project to ensure they comply with local mechanical codes and energy efficiency requirements.
  8. Environmental Department: In some cases, the Environmental Department may review your application to assess potential impacts on the environment, such as soil erosion, water quality, or wetland preservation.
  9. Health Department: If your project involves food service establishments, medical facilities, or other spaces where public health is a concern, the Health Department may review your application to ensure compliance with sanitation and health-related regulations.

These departments work collaboratively to ensure that your renovation project adheres to all relevant codes, regulations, and safety standards. Once all departments have completed their review and any necessary changes have been made to your plans, your building permit application will be approved, and you can proceed with your project.

Step 1 – Apply for the permit

It’s important to submit the application package online or in-person at the Building Department to apply for the Permit. This must include the following:

  • A complete application, related forms, and checklists
  • A deposit for the plan review
  • Copies of the required project plans
  • All supporting documents, such as soil analysis, energy, structural and other

This application package is available online on the cities’ building department website and also at the Building Department counters.

If you are in Miami and planning to apply for your Building Permit, you can file your application online on the Electronic Plan Review (ePlan). This portal has been recently implemented by the City of Miami to make the process easier.

To file your application online, here is what you need to do:

Visit iBuild to submit an online application for your Building Permit
Visit ePlan/ProjectDox to submit an online application for a special Planning and/or Zoning Permit
Visit Public Works App to submit an online application for your Public Works Permit
Please ensure that you choose the right construction application and checklist that aligns with your type and project scope.

Step 2: Upload all the documents

Once you enter your application, you must upload all the required documents on the portal.

For instance, if you have filed for a permit for new construction, you will need the following documents:

  • The site and/or Grading Plan
  • Structural Drawings, Specifications, and Calculations
  • Demolition Drawings
  • Architectural and Engineering Planning and Design
  • Building Elevations
  • Electrical and Mechanical Drawings
  • Plumbing Line Drawings
  • Title 24 Disabilities Access Compliance
  • Technical Calculations and Specifications
  • Title 24 Compliance Forms

Sounds like a lot of documents, right? We are here to help!

Keep in mind that if you need a permit for renovation or remodeling, you must submit a construction drawing map shaft with all the calculations related to your planned project.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are filing an application for the Building Permit, but your project needs approval from the Water and Sewer Department (WAS-D) or Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Management (DERM), you must fill out the Miami Dade County Municipal Application that is available in the PDF application package present on iBuild.

Step 3: Prepare your files carefully

To make the process easier and faster, you must carefully name and organize your files. We assist our customers in preparing their files by providing them with the checklists of documents and drawings required for different types of permits.

It is crucial to name and file each page of your project plan/specifications/drawings/calculations individually by following a standard-level convention for naming. To ensure that you do not get anything wrong, or miss out on any requirements, upload each page as a single file.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

Once you complete your application, you will be notified to pay certain upfront fees before submitting your documents and drawings.

  • For the building/zoning/planning permit, you must select “use transactional ID” and not the customer number.
  • If you are applying for a public works permit, you must select the customer number and not your transactional ID.

As you pay the upfront fees for the City Building Department, you must know that you will have to pay the fees for external agencies like WAS-D, DERM, or Impact fees separately after you get your Miami Dade County Project Number (M#).

Step 5: The application gets under review

Once you are done with all the formalities and your project’s drawings and documents are received by the City of Miami, you will get an acceptance for your submittals from a permitting coordinator.

If there is a problem or more documents are required, you will be notified via email.

Depending on the type of your project plan, the review of the application may involve different departments. For instance:

  1. The Building and Safety Division will review the plan’s compliance with construction type, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, energy conservation, Green build codes, disabled access compliance, and stormwater control regulations.
  2. The Fire Department will review and determine the project’s compliance with fire hazards and safety requirements.
  3. The Public Works Department will review your application to check compliance with parking, drainage, flood control, and other public improvement and driveway standard requirements.
  4. The Planning Division will check compliance with the relevant zoning regulations that may include authorized uses present in the zoning districts, property development, and required parking.
  5. The Utilities Department will check compliance with waste and water conservation objectives.

The applicant must follow the requirements properly and carefully upload all documents and drawings.

Pro Tip – Do not make this mistake: Permits are often delayed, even rejected, if the applicant does not follow the standard file naming convention set by the City Building Departments or attach more than a single page in each file.

Step 6: Acknowledge the review – and wait

After accepting and reviewing your application, you might receive some comments or feedback. If there is any missing drawing or the map needs some upgrades, respond to it as soon as possible.

Usually, it does not take very long to get your permit reviewed.

  • For the first review cycle of a Building permit, it takes up to 35 business days
  • For the first review cycle of a Special permit, it takes almost 65 business days
  • For the first review cycle of a Non-Construction or Utility Excavation permit, it takes almost 40 business days

If any corrections are required, you will get a notification through an email under “Re-submit Applicant Task,” along with all the required instructions to correct the documents and resend them for additional review and approval.

As you make changes, replace every sheet (that requires the changes). Once you are done with the corrections, please make sure you re-submit the corrected pages with the exact same name as initially.

The reviewers will know it is a new, corrected version and move further with assessing your permit application. 

KEYNOTE: If you get corrections more than once for the same application, it is nothing to worry about; the authorized individuals want to ensure that all the project plans, documents, and drawings comply with the Florida Statute and City Ordinance. 

Step 7: The application is approved

As you get the approval of your permit for construction, you will have to complete certain finalization steps before you actually begin your project. For instance, you will be required to add in or update a contractor or pay the remaining fees (if applicable).

If your project plan includes the Public Works Department, you will have to pay the main person you are in contact with so they can accept and issue the permit.

If you have filed for a Special permit, you might have to appear before the Hearing Boards department – exceptions, re-zones, and others.

Step 8: Pay the outstanding permit fees – and get your permit!

You will get notified to pay any outstanding fees via email. For your building permit, you will have to pay a review fee, pull your permit and pay for the remaining permit fees.

  • For the building/zoning/planning permit, you must select “use transactional ID” and not the customer number.
  • If you are applying for a public works permit, you must select the customer number and not your transactional ID.

All you have to do is select “Pull Permit,” pay and then print!

Step 9: Download reviewed and approved plans/documents

Once you are done with everything and have cleared all your fees, you will get an email from us about your final, approved plans, documents, and drawings that are now good to go.

You must log in to the online portal and download the approved folder.

Step 10: You are good to go!

If necessary, you can apply for sub-permits.

If not, get your permit card, approved plans, and documents and get going with the project.

Step 11: Inspections will be done

To close your permit, you must undergo an inspection once you finish your project.

Step 1 – Apply for the permit

It’s important to submit the application package online or in-person at the Building Department to apply for the Permit. This must include the following:

  • A complete application, related forms, and checklists
  • A deposit for the plan review
  • Copies of the required project plans
  • All supporting documents, such as soil analysis, energy, structural and other

This application package is available online on the cities’ building department website and also at the Building Department counters.

If you are in Miami and planning to apply for your Building Permit, you can file your application online on the Electronic Plan Review (ePlan). This portal has been recently implemented by the City of Miami to make the process easier.

To file your application online, here is what you need to do:

Visit iBuild to submit an online application for your Building Permit
Visit ePlan/ProjectDox to submit an online application for a special Planning and/or Zoning Permit
Visit Public Works App to submit an online application for your Public Works Permit
Please ensure that you choose the right construction application and checklist that aligns with your type and project scope.

Step 2: Upload all the documents

Once you enter your application, you must upload all the required documents on the portal.

For instance, if you have filed for a permit for new construction, you will need the following documents:

  • The site and/or Grading Plan
  • Structural Drawings, Specifications, and Calculations
  • Demolition Drawings
  • Architectural and Engineering Planning and Design
  • Building Elevations
  • Electrical and Mechanical Drawings
  • Plumbing Line Drawings
  • Title 24 Disabilities Access Compliance
  • Technical Calculations and Specifications
  • Title 24 Compliance Forms

Sounds like a lot of documents, right? We are here to help!

Keep in mind that if you need a permit for renovation or remodeling, you must submit a construction drawing map shaft with all the calculations related to your planned project.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are filing an application for the Building Permit, but your project needs approval from the Water and Sewer Department (WAS-D) or Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Management (DERM), you must fill out the Miami Dade County Municipal Application that is available in the PDF application package present on iBuild.

Step 3: Prepare your files carefully

To make the process easier and faster, you must carefully name and organize your files. We assist our customers in preparing their files by providing them with the checklists of documents and drawings required for different types of permits.

It is crucial to name and file each page of your project plan/specifications/drawings/calculations individually by following a standard-level convention for naming. To ensure that you do not get anything wrong, or miss out on any requirements, upload each page as a single file.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

Once you complete your application, you will be notified to pay certain upfront fees before submitting your documents and drawings.

  • For the building/zoning/planning permit, you must select “use transactional ID” and not the customer number.
  • If you are applying for a public works permit, you must select the customer number and not your transactional ID.

As you pay the upfront fees for the City Building Department, you must know that you will have to pay the fees for external agencies like WAS-D, DERM, or Impact fees separately after you get your Miami Dade County Project Number (M#).

Step 5: The application gets under review

Once you are done with all the formalities and your project’s drawings and documents are received by the City of Miami, you will get an acceptance for your submittals from a permitting coordinator.

If there is a problem or more documents are required, you will be notified via email.

Depending on the type of your project plan, the review of the application may involve different departments. For instance:

  1. The Building and Safety Division will review the plan’s compliance with construction type, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, energy conservation, Green build codes, disabled access compliance, and stormwater control regulations.
  2. The Fire Department will review and determine the project’s compliance with fire hazards and safety requirements.
  3. The Public Works Department will review your application to check compliance with parking, drainage, flood control, and other public improvement and driveway standard requirements.
  4. The Planning Division will check compliance with the relevant zoning regulations that may include authorized uses present in the zoning districts, property development, and required parking.
  5. The Utilities Department will check compliance with waste and water conservation objectives.

The applicant must follow the requirements properly and carefully upload all documents and drawings.

Pro Tip – Do not make this mistake: Permits are often delayed, even rejected, if the applicant does not follow the standard file naming convention set by the City Building Departments or attach more than a single page in each file.

Step 6: Acknowledge the review – and wait

After accepting and reviewing your application, you might receive some comments or feedback. If there is any missing drawing or the map needs some upgrades, respond to it as soon as possible.

Usually, it does not take very long to get your permit reviewed.

  • For the first review cycle of a Building permit, it takes up to 35 business days
  • For the first review cycle of a Special permit, it takes almost 65 business days
  • For the first review cycle of a Non-Construction or Utility Excavation permit, it takes almost 40 business days

If any corrections are required, you will get a notification through an email under “Re-submit Applicant Task,” along with all the required instructions to correct the documents and resend them for additional review and approval.

As you make changes, replace every sheet (that requires the changes). Once you are done with the corrections, please make sure you re-submit the corrected pages with the exact same name as initially.

The reviewers will know it is a new, corrected version and move further with assessing your permit application. 

KEYNOTE: If you get corrections more than once for the same application, it is nothing to worry about; the authorized individuals want to ensure that all the project plans, documents, and drawings comply with the Florida Statute and City Ordinance. 

Step 7: The application is approved

As you get the approval of your permit for construction, you will have to complete certain finalization steps before you actually begin your project. For instance, you will be required to add in or update a contractor or pay the remaining fees (if applicable).

If your project plan includes the Public Works Department, you will have to pay the main person you are in contact with so they can accept and issue the permit.

If you have filed for a Special permit, you might have to appear before the Hearing Boards department – exceptions, re-zones, and others.

Step 8: Pay the outstanding permit fees – and get your permit!

You will get notified to pay any outstanding fees via email. For your building permit, you will have to pay a review fee, pull your permit and pay for the remaining permit fees.

  • For the building/zoning/planning permit, you must select “use transactional ID” and not the customer number.
  • If you are applying for a public works permit, you must select the customer number and not your transactional ID.

All you have to do is select “Pull Permit,” pay and then print!

Step 9: Download reviewed and approved plans/documents

Once you are done with everything and have cleared all your fees, you will get an email from us about your final, approved plans, documents, and drawings that are now good to go.

You must log in to the online portal and download the approved folder.

Step 10: You are good to go!

If necessary, you can apply for sub-permits.

If not, get your permit card, approved plans, and documents and get going with the project.

Step 11: Inspections will be done

To close your permit, you must undergo an inspection once you finish your project.

We Can Help You

We are here to make the process of acquiring a building process seamless.

At JMK Contractor, we value our customers, and our experts can help you get all the permits and approvals needed to complete your projects. Hire us to perfect your documents, drawings, and calculations to reduce the risk of error and limit the revision cycles so you can get your permits soon!

Contact us now at 305-890-4593, and we will get in touch with FREE Consultation.

We Can Help You

We are here to make the process of acquiring a building process seamless.

At JMK Contractor, we value our customers, and our experts can help you get all the permits and approvals needed to complete your projects. Hire us to perfect your documents, drawings, and calculations to reduce the risk of error and limit the revision cycles so you can get your permits soon!

Contact us now at 305-890-4593, and we will get in touch with FREE Consultation.

Our Location

Working Hours

© Copyright 2023 – JMK Contractor. All Rights Reserved