Unincorporated Monroe County

Contractors, owners, or builders must apply for a permit before commencing construction.

Note: Applicants should use the FBC exemption framework and confirm county floodplain, environmental, and ROGO/NROGO implications before assuming work is permit-exempt.

Building code

Florida Building Code (mandatory statewide). Monroe County also enforces Monroe County Code and local floodplain rules.

Contractor requirements

Architects, engineers, and private providers must use compliant digital signatures for submitted drawings. Contractor agents need county authorization on file.

1. 01
   Confirm the property is in unincorporated Monroe County rather than one of the five municipal permit jurisdictions.
2. 02
   Register in OPAL before filing; agents also need registration, and contractor-agent filings require the county Agent Authorization Form.
3. 03
   Submit the permit application and supporting documents online. Paper applications are not accepted.
4. 04
   Obtain any required outside-agency approvals. Monroe County coordinates with agencies outside the Building Department.
5. 05
   Pay permit fees through the portal or in person once invoiced.
6. 06
   Schedule inspections and complete permit closeout/certificate of occupancy requirements.

Source: Monroe County Building Department ↗

Inspection hours

8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at each permitting office; appointments strongly encouraged.

Typical sequence: Inspectors will call the contact phone number associated with the permit before arrival. Plans must be ready and open to the pertinent pages on site.

Source: Monroe County Building Department ↗