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Charlotte County Building Permit Guide
Britain Jacobson
Last updated:
May 10, 2025
For developers, builders, and home services contractors working in Charlotte County, Florida, understanding the local building permit process is crucial. Whether you’re planning a residential subdivision, commercial build, or specialized installation, having a clear roadmap for permitting can save you significant time and money.
Simplify permitting in Charlotte County with PermitFlow. Learn more here.
What requires a building permit in Charlotte County?
Charlotte County permits are typically required for most major construction, remodeling, and installation projects.
This includes:
- New construction: Building new residential or commercial structures
- Additions and expansions: Adding square footage to an existing structure, such as rooms, garages, or decks
- Interior remodels: Structural changes like removing load-bearing walls, modifying floor plans, or upgrading electrical and plumbing systems
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work: Installing or upgrading HVAC systems, plumbing fixtures, or electrical panels
- Accessory structures: Sheds, garages, and other detached buildings over 120 square feet
- Swimming pools and spas: In-ground and above-ground pools, hot tubs, and spas
- Retaining walls: Walls over 4 feet in height or those designed to support a surcharge
- Fences: Installing fences over 6 feet tall or those with concrete footings
- Demolitions: Removing entire structures or significant portions thereof
Smaller projects, like cosmetic repairs, simple plumbing fixture replacements, or minor electrical work, often don’t require a permit. That said, it’s always best to verify with the Charlotte County Community Development Department, which oversees building permits, plan reviews, inspections, Florida Building Code compliance, and contractor licensing regulations.
Who issues building permits in Charlotte County?
The Charlotte County Community Development Department — specifically the Building Construction Services division — issues permits. They oversee permitting for both residential and commercial projects, including plan reviews, inspections, and final approvals.
How to look up permits in Charlotte County
If you need to verify the status of a permit or check Charlotte County building permit records, you can use the county’s Online Services Portal. This portal allows you to search for active permits, view inspection results, and confirm project statuses.
To look up permits, go to the portal and search by permit number, property address, or project type.
Charlotte County building permit costs
Permit fees in Charlotte County vary based on the size and scope of the project. Generally, fees are calculated based on project valuation or specific project types. You can pay permit fees by credit or debit card, or by check made payable to either "CCBCC" or Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners.
Residential building permit fees:
| Permit Type |
Fee |
| Single-family home construction |
- 0.004 x ICC valuation if more than or equal to $50,000 in valuation
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- $150 pre-application fee
- Address assignment: $15
- Zoning review: $50
- Natural resources: $55
- Tree: $70
- Line & grade: $310
|
| Additions |
- Flat fee: $200
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $5
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
- Right-of-way review: $90
- Zoning review: $50
|
| Demolitions |
- Flat fee: $90
- Surcharge: $4
- Right-of-way review: $90
- Zoning review: $22
|
| Remodels |
- Flat fee: $200
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $5
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
|
| Carports |
- Flat rate: $90
- Surcharge: $4
- Zoning review: $22
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Swimming pool or spa |
- $94 (above ground)
- $200 (in ground)
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $5
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
- Zoning review: $22
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Electrical, Gas, Mechanical, Plumbing, Siding or soffit, Generator, Windows, Doors |
- $90 + $4 surcharge
- Generator: $90 + $4 surcharge + $22 zoning fee
- Windows:
- Flat fee: $90
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $4
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
|
View all residential permit fees.
Commercial building permit fees:
| Permit Type |
Fee |
| Commercial building construction |
- Building: $200 flat, + 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- $200 pre-application fee
- Address assignment: $15
- Zoning review: $65
- Tree review: $80
- Landscaping review: $80
- Right-of-way review: $90
- Line & grade: $310
|
| Additions |
- $200 pre-application fee
- Building: $200 flat, + 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- Address assignment: $15
- Zoning review: $65
- Tree: $80
- Landscaping: $80
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Demolitions |
- $90 + $4 surcharge
- Zoning review: $22
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Remodels |
- $200 pre-application fee
- Building Flat: $200 if ICC valuation < $50,000
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- Building: 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
|
| Carport |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Roof |
- $90 if ICC valuation < $50,000
- Surcharge: $4
- 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
|
| Electrical |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Gas |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Mechanical |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Plumbing |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Generator |
- $94
- Surcharge: $5 if valuation is less than $50,000
- If valuation is $50,000 or more, the surcharge = 0.025 x building fee
- 0.004 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
|
| Windows |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Doors |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Fence |
- $90 + $4 surcharge
- Zoning review: $30
|
View all commercial permit fees.
How to get a building permit in Charlotte County
Getting a building permit in Charlotte County can be straightforward if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine permit requirements
Determine the specific permits required for your project based on its scope and type.
This may include:
- Building permits for new construction
- Mechanical permits for HVAC systems
- Plumbing permits for water and gas lines
- Electrical permits for wiring and lighting
- Specialty permits for pools, fences, or accessory structures
Be sure to confirm the exact requirements with the Charlotte County Community Development Department to avoid project delays.
Step 2: Prepare your application
Gather all required documents, which may include:
- Completed permit application
- Construction plans and specifications
- Site plans and surveys
- Energy compliance reports (if applicable)
- Project-specific engineering calculations (if needed)
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application through the Charlotte County Permit Portal or in person at the Community Development Department.
Step 4: Plan review and approval
Your application will be reviewed for compliance with local building codes and regulations. Be prepared for potential revisions or additional documentation requests.
Step 5: Permit issuance
Once approved, you’ll receive your building permit. Make sure to display it prominently at the job site.
Step 6: Inspections
Scheduling inspections is a critical step in the construction process, ensuring that your project meets local safety and building standards. In Charlotte County, inspections are required at various stages of construction and must be completed before moving on to the next phase. To avoid delays, make sure you’re prepared and understand what inspectors are looking for.
Refer to the Charlotte County Inspections page for information on scheduling inspections.
Tips for successful inspections:
- Have permits on-site for the inspector to review.
- Make sure inspectors have clear, safe access to all areas being inspected
- Only schedule inspections when the work is fully completed. Partial or incomplete work can lead to re-inspection fees and project delays.
- Make sure your team is aware of the inspection schedule and prepared for their portion of the review.
Charlotte County permitting resources
Community Development Department
- Address: 18500 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
- Phone: (941) 743-1201
- Email: building@charlottecountyfl.gov
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Community Development website
Online services
Additional resources
Streamline permitting in Charlotte County with PermitFlow
Navigating the permitting process in Charlotte County doesn’t have to be a headache. PermitFlow helps professional builders, construction companies, GCs, and home services contractors submit, track, and manage permits efficiently.
With PermitFlow, you get:
- Pre-vetted research: Accurate, up-to-date permitting requirements for every jurisdiction you build in.
- Centralized permit management: Keep all your permits, timelines, and communication in one place.
- Faster approvals: Reduce delays and avoid common mistakes that slow down the permitting process.
- End-to-end support: From initial research to final inspections, PermitFlow provides expert guidance at every step.
Ready to simplify your next project in Charlotte County? Contact our permitting experts today.
For developers, builders, and home services contractors working in Charlotte County, Florida, understanding the local building permit process is crucial. Whether you’re planning a residential subdivision, commercial build, or specialized installation, having a clear roadmap for permitting can save you significant time and money.
Simplify permitting in Charlotte County with PermitFlow. Learn more here.
What requires a building permit in Charlotte County?
Charlotte County permits are typically required for most major construction, remodeling, and installation projects.
This includes:
- New construction: Building new residential or commercial structures
- Additions and expansions: Adding square footage to an existing structure, such as rooms, garages, or decks
- Interior remodels: Structural changes like removing load-bearing walls, modifying floor plans, or upgrading electrical and plumbing systems
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work: Installing or upgrading HVAC systems, plumbing fixtures, or electrical panels
- Accessory structures: Sheds, garages, and other detached buildings over 120 square feet
- Swimming pools and spas: In-ground and above-ground pools, hot tubs, and spas
- Retaining walls: Walls over 4 feet in height or those designed to support a surcharge
- Fences: Installing fences over 6 feet tall or those with concrete footings
- Demolitions: Removing entire structures or significant portions thereof
Smaller projects, like cosmetic repairs, simple plumbing fixture replacements, or minor electrical work, often don’t require a permit. That said, it’s always best to verify with the Charlotte County Community Development Department, which oversees building permits, plan reviews, inspections, Florida Building Code compliance, and contractor licensing regulations.
Who issues building permits in Charlotte County?
The Charlotte County Community Development Department — specifically the Building Construction Services division — issues permits. They oversee permitting for both residential and commercial projects, including plan reviews, inspections, and final approvals.
How to look up permits in Charlotte County
If you need to verify the status of a permit or check Charlotte County building permit records, you can use the county’s Online Services Portal. This portal allows you to search for active permits, view inspection results, and confirm project statuses.
To look up permits, go to the portal and search by permit number, property address, or project type.
Charlotte County building permit costs
Permit fees in Charlotte County vary based on the size and scope of the project. Generally, fees are calculated based on project valuation or specific project types. You can pay permit fees by credit or debit card, or by check made payable to either "CCBCC" or Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners.
Residential building permit fees:
| Permit Type |
Fee |
| Single-family home construction |
- 0.004 x ICC valuation if more than or equal to $50,000 in valuation
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- $150 pre-application fee
- Address assignment: $15
- Zoning review: $50
- Natural resources: $55
- Tree: $70
- Line & grade: $310
|
| Additions |
- Flat fee: $200
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $5
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
- Right-of-way review: $90
- Zoning review: $50
|
| Demolitions |
- Flat fee: $90
- Surcharge: $4
- Right-of-way review: $90
- Zoning review: $22
|
| Remodels |
- Flat fee: $200
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $5
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
|
| Carports |
- Flat rate: $90
- Surcharge: $4
- Zoning review: $22
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Swimming pool or spa |
- $94 (above ground)
- $200 (in ground)
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $5
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
- Zoning review: $22
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Electrical, Gas, Mechanical, Plumbing, Siding or soffit, Generator, Windows, Doors |
- $90 + $4 surcharge
- Generator: $90 + $4 surcharge + $22 zoning fee
- Windows:
- Flat fee: $90
- Surcharge if valuation < $50,000: $4
- Surcharge if valuation > $50,000: 0.025 x building fee
|
View all residential permit fees.
Commercial building permit fees:
| Permit Type |
Fee |
| Commercial building construction |
- Building: $200 flat, + 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- $200 pre-application fee
- Address assignment: $15
- Zoning review: $65
- Tree review: $80
- Landscaping review: $80
- Right-of-way review: $90
- Line & grade: $310
|
| Additions |
- $200 pre-application fee
- Building: $200 flat, + 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- Address assignment: $15
- Zoning review: $65
- Tree: $80
- Landscaping: $80
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Demolitions |
- $90 + $4 surcharge
- Zoning review: $22
- Right-of-way review: $90
|
| Remodels |
- $200 pre-application fee
- Building Flat: $200 if ICC valuation < $50,000
- Surcharge: 0.025 x building fee; minimum of $5
- Building: 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
|
| Carport |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Roof |
- $90 if ICC valuation < $50,000
- Surcharge: $4
- 0.005 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
|
| Electrical |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Gas |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Mechanical |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Plumbing |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Generator |
- $94
- Surcharge: $5 if valuation is less than $50,000
- If valuation is $50,000 or more, the surcharge = 0.025 x building fee
- 0.004 x ICC valuation if > $50,000 in valuation
|
| Windows |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Doors |
$90 + $4 surcharge |
| Fence |
- $90 + $4 surcharge
- Zoning review: $30
|
View all commercial permit fees.
How to get a building permit in Charlotte County
Getting a building permit in Charlotte County can be straightforward if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine permit requirements
Determine the specific permits required for your project based on its scope and type.
This may include:
- Building permits for new construction
- Mechanical permits for HVAC systems
- Plumbing permits for water and gas lines
- Electrical permits for wiring and lighting
- Specialty permits for pools, fences, or accessory structures
Be sure to confirm the exact requirements with the Charlotte County Community Development Department to avoid project delays.
Step 2: Prepare your application
Gather all required documents, which may include:
- Completed permit application
- Construction plans and specifications
- Site plans and surveys
- Energy compliance reports (if applicable)
- Project-specific engineering calculations (if needed)
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application through the Charlotte County Permit Portal or in person at the Community Development Department.
Step 4: Plan review and approval
Your application will be reviewed for compliance with local building codes and regulations. Be prepared for potential revisions or additional documentation requests.
Step 5: Permit issuance
Once approved, you’ll receive your building permit. Make sure to display it prominently at the job site.
Step 6: Inspections
Scheduling inspections is a critical step in the construction process, ensuring that your project meets local safety and building standards. In Charlotte County, inspections are required at various stages of construction and must be completed before moving on to the next phase. To avoid delays, make sure you’re prepared and understand what inspectors are looking for.
Refer to the Charlotte County Inspections page for information on scheduling inspections.
Tips for successful inspections:
- Have permits on-site for the inspector to review.
- Make sure inspectors have clear, safe access to all areas being inspected
- Only schedule inspections when the work is fully completed. Partial or incomplete work can lead to re-inspection fees and project delays.
- Make sure your team is aware of the inspection schedule and prepared for their portion of the review.
Charlotte County permitting resources
Community Development Department
- Address: 18500 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
- Phone: (941) 743-1201
- Email: building@charlottecountyfl.gov
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Community Development website
Online services
Additional resources
Streamline permitting in Charlotte County with PermitFlow
Navigating the permitting process in Charlotte County doesn’t have to be a headache. PermitFlow helps professional builders, construction companies, GCs, and home services contractors submit, track, and manage permits efficiently.
With PermitFlow, you get:
- Pre-vetted research: Accurate, up-to-date permitting requirements for every jurisdiction you build in.
- Centralized permit management: Keep all your permits, timelines, and communication in one place.
- Faster approvals: Reduce delays and avoid common mistakes that slow down the permitting process.
- End-to-end support: From initial research to final inspections, PermitFlow provides expert guidance at every step.
Ready to simplify your next project in Charlotte County? Contact our permitting experts today.
