City of Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach FAQ and application materials indicate permits are required for most building, trade, and structural work.

Note: Confirm exemptions directly with the Panama City Beach Building Department. Floodplain, dune, zoning, and coastal requirements may still apply even when a building permit is not required.

Building code

Florida Building Code

Permit validity

Permits remain active only while work progresses and an approved inspection occurs at least every 180 days.

Owner-builder

The city publishes owner-builder forms and requires applicable disclosures.

Contractor requirements

Contractor registration is required through the Building Department for licensed contractors performing work in the city.

1. 01
   Determine permit type from the Building Department pages and download or complete the correct application packet.
2. 02
   Submit plans, valuation, contractor or owner-builder information, and supporting forms.
3. 03
   Provide contractor registration and any required notices, including notice of commencement where applicable.
4. 04
   Pay building and plan review fees under the city fee schedule.
5. 05
   Resolve review comments and obtain permit issuance.
6. 06
   Post permit and approved plans as required.
7. 07
   Request inspections during construction and secure final approval.

Source: Building Department ↗

Confirm with the city's current accepted payment methods when applying.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• City Building Department inspection process (online)

Typical sequence: Typical sequence: permit issuance, required foundation/framing/trade/roof/final inspections depending on scope.

Source: Building Department ↗