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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Mary Esther
Projects requiring FBC review include new dwellings, commercial buildings, interior and exterior remodels, additions, carports, seawalls, fences/walls with footers, boathouses, and accessory structures over 200 sq ft. Projects not requiring FBC review include fences/walls with no footer, re-roofs, driveways, and accessory structures 200 sq ft or less.
- Exempt Sheds and storage buildings 200 sq ft or less are in the category of projects that do not require an FBC review.
Note: City review may still be required for exempt-from-FBC work. The city tells owners to call before starting any project to verify permit requirements and contractor registration.
- City permit application
- Plans and specifications as applicable
- County permit documentation for FBC-review projects
- Contractor Tracking Certificate
- Building code
- 2023 Florida Building Code, 8th Edition. The city permit process is expressly built around deciding whether a scope needs an FBC review.
- Permit validity
- Permits remain valid according to city and state law.
- Owner-builder
- City-specific qualification follows Florida law.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must obtain a city Contractor Tracking Certificate before work begins or before applying for an Okaloosa County permit or sub-permit.
Application process
Typical processing: Contact city for current processing times.
- 01 Submit a city permit application for every building permit application.
- 02 For projects requiring only city review, obtain city review and permit issuance through Mary Esther.
- 03 For projects subject to Florida Building Code review, first obtain city plan approval and a city development order.
- 04 Then take the plans to Okaloosa County for FBC review and county permit issuance.
- 05 Return the county permit to the city and obtain the city construction permit before beginning construction.
- 06 Complete city and county inspections as applicable.
Typical processing time: Contact city for current processing times.
Fee schedule
Effective 2026-03
The city warns the list is not all-inclusive and that additional fire and utility fees may apply.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective 2026-03) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- City Hall (in-person)
- Scheduling deadline
- Contact city for current inspection scheduling procedures.
Typical sequence: Depending on scope, inspections may involve both the city and Okaloosa County.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Mary Esther permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Mary Esther, FL? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Mary Esther, FL? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Mary Esther, FL? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Mary Esther, FL? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Mary Esther, FL? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Mary Esther, FL? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Mary Esther, Community Development Department / Code Enforcement, Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.