Like most cities throughout the US, the City of Orlando requires builders, contractors, and developers to obtain a permit to ensure building safety before they can start working on their projects. Whether you’re familiar with the permitting process or you’ve never navigated it before, it’s important to understand the unique policies and requirements of the city where you’re applying.
In Orlando, Florida, you’ll have to complete the correct forms and submit your plans digitally. Keep reading this guide to learn more about permitting in Orange County’s City of Orlando.
City of Orlando permitting requirements
Building safety is of the utmost importance, so anyone planning to construct, alter, or demolish a building in the City of Orlando will first need to obtain a building permit. You’ll also need a permit for projects involving electrical, plumbing, gas, or mechanical systems.
Building permits in Orlando are overseen by the City of Orlando Building Department, Permitting Services Division. Your permit certifies that your construction project is safe and up to code. Having a permit allows you to begin work on your project in Orange County.
Orlando offers online services for permit applications, so you can apply online to save time.
Examples of projects that require a building permit in Orlando include:
- New development
- Building additions or expansions to existing structures
- Adding garages, sheds, porches, etc. to existing properties
- Reroofing
- Sewer and water service connections
- Installing new HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems
- Demolishing a building
Examples of projects that don’t require a permit:
- Replacing ceiling fans
- Repairing HVAC or plumbing systems
- Painting
- Replacing kitchen cabinets
City of Orlando Building Department, Permitting Services Division
- City of Orlando Building Department phone number: (407) 246-2121
- Email: digitalpermits@orlando.gov
- Address: 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32801
How much is a building permit in Orlando, Florida?
An Orlando building permit varies in cost from about $20 to several thousands of dollars depending on the value of the project and the type of permit required.
Here are fees for common building permits:
- New residential construction permit fee: $26 for first $1,000 of project value (+$3 per each additional $1,000 of value)
- New multifamily/commercial construction permit fee: $26 for first $1,000 of project value (+$4 per each additional $1,000 of value)
- Minimum electrical permit fee: $38
- Plumbing permit fee for new construction or addition: $75
- Gas permit fee (up to $1,000): $64 (+$6 per additional $1,000 of project value)
- Sign permit fee: $38 - $69 depending on sign square footage
City of Orlando permitting process
Submitting City of Orlando permit applications is relatively straightforward. Carefully follow each step to submit your application and receive your permit and start work on your project in Orange County as quickly as possible.
Pro tip: To prepare for the permitting process, you may request a pre-application meeting with a planner. The Planning Division can answer questions about zoning, construction permits, and more.
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to get a permit in Orlando:
1. Submit permit applications
In Orlando, different types of construction projects require different types of permits. So first, you’ll have to determine which application form to fill out.
Here’s an overview of the different types of forms the Permitting Division requires: