When is a Building Permit Required?

WHEN IS A BUILDING PERMIT REQUIRED?

Section 105 of the Florida Building Code requires permits for most construction-related work. Various improvements of real property may not require a building permit. The work exempted must be performed in accordance with minimum code standards. The following table should help clarify the Building Department’s current permit requirements.

ITEMS NOT REQUIRING A PERMIT (RESIDENTIAL ONLY)

A/C - Replace window unit, electrical outlet existing	Painting
Awnings - 9 square feet or less	Pavers - sand set, not part of a pool/spa deck
Ceiling Fan - replacement using existing out box and wiring	Pergolas/Arbors - 120 square feet and under, self-supporting
Ceramic Tile - replace on floor and wall (non-fire rated)	Playground Equipment
Dishwasher - replacement within a dwelling unit	Pool/Spa - manufactured, less than 24 inches deep
Door - replace any interior residential door within the individual unit	Roof - repair existing roof covering less than 100 square feet
Concrete - flatwork	Sheds - under 100 square feet
Drywall Walls (non-fire related)	Screening - front entrance, up to 100 square feet on screen
Faucet or Water Closet - replace	Siding - repair under 20 square feet
Fence - repair or replace, except pool barrier fence 2' or less of other fences 6' or less	Sink - replace only
Gutter and Leaders	Soffit or Fascia - repair under $1,000, not including structural members
Kitchen Cabinet - replacement only, with no change in configuration of electrical or plumbing	Stucco - repair stucco finish
Light Fixture, Switch, Outlet - replace "like for like" in existing box	Solar Tubes - without electric
Low Voltage Wiring - for residential	Window Repair
Flag Powers - under 12 feet tall	Wood Deck - Repair of decking not including structural members and decks fewer than 100 square feet AND under 30 inches high
	Water Heater - change out if same type and same location

This table is a concise guide to Sumter County Building Department Policies, Florida Statutes (489.103 9[a+b]), and the Florida Building Codes.