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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Pinellas County
Building permits are required for all construction projects in unincorporated Pinellas County exceeding $500 in valuation or requiring inspection.
- Exempt Minor repair and maintenance work
- Exempt Accessory structures under certain square footage limits without utilities
- Exempt Non-structural shelving and storage
- Exempt Minor electrical and plumbing work within code limits
Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning, floodplain, or other regulatory requirements. Confirm with county staff before proceeding with any work.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan with property dimensions and existing structures
- Construction plans and specifications
- Proof of property ownership or authorization
- Flood zone documentation where applicable
- Coastal or floodplain certifications if in hazard area
- Building code
- Florida Building Code, 8th Edition (2023)
- Permit validity
- Permits remain valid while active inspections continue; specific expiration periods vary by permit type.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders may apply directly; verify current requirements with county before proceeding.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a current Florida Contractor License and provide proof of liability insurance.
Source: Pinellas County Building and Development Review Services ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by project complexity; standard residential permits typically 2-4 weeks after completeness.
- 01 Access the Pinellas County Access Portal (Accela).
- 02 Provide project information, property details, and scope of work.
- 03 Upload required documents including plans, property surveys, and project specifications.
- 04 Pay application and plan-review fees as invoiced.
- 05 County staff reviews for completeness and routes to appropriate departments.
- 06 Address any correction comments and resubmit revised documents if required.
- 07 Pay remaining fees and obtain permit issuance before starting work.
Typical processing time: Varies by project complexity; standard residential permits typically 2-4 weeks after completeness.
Source: Pinellas County Building and Development Review Services ↗
Fee schedule
Effective Current as of 2026-03
Fees paid through Accela portal; multiple payment methods accepted
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective Current as of 2026-03) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Accela portal (online)
- 727-464-3888 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Requests typically accommodated for next business day when submitted by required cutoff time.
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (hours subject to change)
- Time windows
- AM and PM windows available for inspection scheduling
Typical sequence: Standard sequence includes framing, MEP rough-in, insulation, drywall, final inspections, and certificate of occupancy/completion.
County may use remote inspections for certain inspection types at its discretion.
Source: Pinellas County Building and Development Review Services ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Pinellas County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Pinellas County, FL? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Pinellas County, FL? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Pinellas County, FL? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Pinellas County, FL? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Pinellas County, FL? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Pinellas County, FL? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Pinellas County Building and Development Review Services before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.