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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Marathon
A building permit is required for construction within the City of Marathon.
Note: Applicants should not assume exemption from permit where BPAS, floodplain, or local land-development controls may still apply.
- Building code
- Florida Building Code and Marathon city codes, ordinances, and land development regulations.
- Permit validity
- A permit becomes null and void if the work does not receive another approved inspection every 180 days.
- Contractor requirements
- The city enforces the Florida Building Code and its own codes, ordinances, and land development regulations. No inspections will be made unless the permit card is displayed and approved plans are available on site.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Confirm the project is inside Marathon city limits.
- 02 Create a portal account and submit the permit application online with plans and supporting documents.
- 03 For new construction, pools, tiki huts, or accessory structures, a foundation survey/sealed site plan showing the exact location and setbacks is required; hand-drawn documents are not accepted.
- 04 Respond to plan-review comments and wait for city notice that the permit is ready for payment. Do not pay through the portal until a comment says the permit is ready for payment.
- 05 For emergency work, immediate emergency repairs are allowed, but the application must be received within 48 hours after work starts and an explanatory email sent to the Building Department.
- 06 Obtain inspections and final approval.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Portal request (online)
- (305) 289-4133 (phone)
- inspections@ci.marathon.fl.us (email)
- Scheduling deadline
- Requests before 3:30 p.m. are scheduled for the next inspection day. Requests after 3:30 p.m. are performed within the next two business days.
Typical sequence: Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing inspections are completed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays only.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Marathon permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Marathon, FL? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Marathon, FL? ▸
03 How do I schedule a building inspection in Marathon, FL? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Marathon Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.