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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Orlando
Florida law requires permits for most projects, including many small ones.
Note: Confirm permit requirements with the Permitting Services Division.
- Completed permit application
- Site plan
- Construction plans
- Digital plans in ProjectDox format
- Project-specific forms and documents
- Building code
- Florida Building Code with city-specific amendments
- Permit validity
- 180-day permit activity framework applies.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders are subject to Florida's owner-builder exemption rules and may face different requirements.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold appropriate Florida state licenses.
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by project type and complexity; timeline follows Florida law requirements.
- 01 Confirm the property is inside Orlando city limits; note that a mailing address of Orlando does not always mean City jurisdiction.
- 02 Use the city's permit guide to identify the permit type, checklist, and required forms.
- 03 Submit the permit application and supporting documents to the Permitting Services Division.
- 04 After intake, use the emailed ProjectDox invitation to upload plans and respond to comments.
- 05 Pay permit fees and satisfy any zoning, engineering, fire, or outside-agency approvals.
- 06 Keep approved plans onsite and schedule required inspections through the city's inspection system.
- 07 Obtain final inspection approval and, if applicable, Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion before occupancy.
Typical processing time: Varies by project type and complexity; timeline follows Florida law requirements.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- City inspection scheduling system (online)
- 407-246-2271 (phone)
- Text-based inspection requests available (text)
- Scheduling deadline
- Requests must be submitted by specified cutoff times for next-business-day scheduling.
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Time windows
- AM and PM inspection windows available.
Typical sequence: The city allows inspections to be scheduled online, by text, or by phone. Virtual inspections available for certain residential work.
Virtual inspections may be available for certain residential work types.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Orlando permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Orlando, FL? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Orlando, FL? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Orlando, FL? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Orlando, FL? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Orlando Permitting Services Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.