FAQs

What is a Building Permit?

It 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.

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

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

Application

Construction Plans meeting Florida Building Code requirements are submitted and then reviewed by licensed Plan Examiners. (only required for some projects including new construction, renovations, and additions). The applicant must provide sufficient documentation so that the Building Official can conduct a thorough plan review. Depending on the scope of the building project, some or all of the following documents may be required with the application:

1. Site Plan
2. Building Elevations
3. Mechanical Plan
4. Signage Plan
5. Structural Plan 
6. Electrical Plan
7. Foundation Plan
8. Landscaping Plan
9. Grading and Drainage Plan

Missing or incomplete documents will delay the issuance of a Building Permit. 

Please allow 1-2 weeks for minimal plan review and 3-4 weeks for extensive plan review. You will be notified when a permit is ready to be issued. 

Construction prior to the issuance of a permit is subject to a STOP WORK ORDER and will be charged a fee.

Please email all applications to permitting [at] clewiston-fl.gov (permitting[at]clewiston-fl[dot]gov)

 

Notice of Commencement

NOCs are required if the work value is more than $5,000.00 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.

Certificate of Occupancy

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 City, 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.

A certificate of occupancy shall be required for any change of use, or for any alteration or modification of any building or structure. Any change of occupancy of business uses, professional uses, personal services and retail sales and services shall require a certificate of occupancy before opening to the public.

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

  • 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 20 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; duct replacement or relocation

  • 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, Florida Building Code states that when any owner, authorized agent, or contractor 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. Call our office 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 Community Development Department staff at 863-983-1500, we will be happy to answer your questions.

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

Yes, you may perform work on a home that you own and occupy. It cannot be offered for sale or lease for one year after final completion of the project. The office will provide an owner/builder affidavit with your permit application.

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 City’s certified building and fire inspectors and plans examiners 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 you’re building an addition, a whole set of construction documents if you’re 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, and at least one inspection must be passed by an inspector

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