HomeRight ArrowBlogRight Arrow

Osceola County Building and Trade Permit Guide

Britain Jacobson

Britain Jacobson

Last updated:

Sep 5, 2025

Published:

September 5, 2025

Reading time:

5

minutes

Osceola County is one of Central Florida’s fastest-growing areas, with new homes, commercial developments, and trade projects popping up across the region. Before breaking ground, most work requires an Osceola County building permit to stay compliant with Florida’s building codes and local safety standards.

This guide covers the essentials: which projects require permits, what’s exempt, fee structures, and how to submit an Osceola County building permit application through the online system.

Simplify permitting in Osceola County with PermitFlow. Learn how.

What requires a building permit in Osceola County?

Understanding Osceola County building permit requirements is essential before starting any construction work. Osceola County requires permits for most building activities to ensure safety and code compliance.

  • New residential or commercial buildings
  • Structural modifications and additions
  • Roofing, decks, pools, and exterior alterations
  • Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and mechanical systems
  • Change of use or occupancy
  • Emergency repairs and fire-related changes

The County reviews these under the Florida Building Code and local regulations.

What doesn’t require a permit?

Minor, low-risk activities may be exempt. These typically include cosmetic upgrades such as interior painting or replacing fixtures, not involving structure or utilities. Always check with County permitting staff to confirm exemptions.

Who handles permitting in Osceola County?

Permitting is managed by the Osceola County Building Department.

  • Location: 1 Courthouse Square, Suite 1400, Kissimmee, FL 34741
  • Phone: 407‑742‑0200
  • Hours: Mon–Thu 7:30 AM–5:00 PM, Fri 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Apply, pay, and schedule inspections via the Osceola County permit portal

Osceola County building permit cost

Osceola County building permit fees vary based on the project type and the value of the project. Here's what you should know.

Residential fees

Square footage range Building permit fee Plan review fee
Up to 1,599 sq ft $400.00 + $20.00
1,600 – 1,999 sq ft $480.00 + $20.00
2,000 – 2,999 sq ft $560.00 + $40.00
3,000 – 3,999 sq ft $640.00 + $40.00
4,000 sq ft & over $720.00 + $80.00

Additional fees for residential permits:

  • Archival fee: 3% of building permit fee
  • Radon fee: 2.5% of building permit fee or $4.00, whichever is greater
  • Technology fee: 3% of building permit fee 

Commercial permit fees

Commercial permit fees are calculated based on construction valuation using a valuation-based table (valuations include structure and all trades). The building permit fee scales with value:

  • Up to $5,000 valuation: $85.00
  • Over $5,000 valuation: $150.00 + $3.25 per $1,000 (or fraction) over $5,000
  • Maximum permit fee: $300,000.00

Nested fees include:

  • Boats, carports, gazebos, etc.: Flat permit and plan review fees vary (e.g., carport: $80 + $60 plan review)
  • Fences: $60 permit fee (includes $30 zoning review), with no plan review required
  • Re-roofing: $80 permit fee; higher fee if solar involved

Osceola County trade permits

free trade permit guides

Electrical permits

Used for installing or modifying electrical systems.

Description Fee
Base Fee $125.00
Low Voltage Electric Permit $40.00
Service – Up to 200 AMP $45.00
Each Additional 100 AMP up to 1200 AMP $3.00
Sub-Feed Panel or Sub-Meter $4.50
Temporary Service $22.50
Additional Disconnects $4.50

Additional electric equipment

Description Fee
Transformer up to 50 AMP $3.00
Transformer over 50 AMP $4.00
Display Cases (Neon, etc.) $4.50
Transformer – First $3.75
Transformer – Additional $1.50

Plumbing permits

Required for plumbing and gas system installations.

Description Fee Notes
Base Fee $125.00
Backflow Preventer $5.00 Each
Commercial Disposal $10.00 Each
Drinking Fountain $5.00 Each
Ice Maker (Commercial) $5.00 Each
Septic Tank Connection $10.00 Each
Sewer Tap $10.00 Each
Water Heater $5.00 Each
Water Heater Replacement $25.00 Flat
Water Service $10.00 Each
Water Softener (Commercial) $5.00 Each

Mechanical (HVAC) permits

Needed for heating, cooling, and ventilation installations.

Description Fee
Mechanical Permit Base Fee $125.00
LP Gas Permit Base Fee $125.00
Burners, Furnaces, Incinerators, A/C Units, Boilers $10.00 each + base fee
Gas piping (1–4 outlets) $22.50 + $3.00 per additional outlet
Wall Furnaces / Water Heaters $5.00 each + base fee

Specialty permits

Description Fee Notes
Re-roofing Permit $80.00 No plan review required
Re-roofing (with solar panel removal) $150.00 No plan review; requires solar + electrical + roof
Re-roofing (Solar Shingles) $150.00 Same as above
Wood Deck $90.00 $40 plan review + $50 permit
Swimming Pool/Spa – In-ground $220.00 $60 plan review + $160 permit
Swimming Pool/Spa – Above-ground $160.00 No plan review
Fence (Wood, Chain Link, Vinyl, etc.) $60.00 Includes $30 zoning fee; no plan review
Sign (Wall or Free-standing, Commercial) $220.00 $60 plan review + $160 permit

To get more information on your specific case, refer to the building permit and related fees page.

Take the stress out of permitting
Count on PermitFlow to handle your permit application with ease. Learn more.

How to get a building permit in Osceola County

Step 1: Determine your permit type

Visit the Osceola County Online Permit Center to identify your project category (residential, commercial, accessory structures, etc.). You’ll find the appropriate application forms and submission requirements there.

Step 2: Prepare required documentation

Most applications will require the following:

  • A complete Osceola County building permit application:
  • Site plan and/or construction drawings (to scale)
  • Proof of ownership or contractor authorization
  • Energy compliance forms (REScheck/COMcheck if applicable)
  • Zoning, floodplain, or environmental approvals (if applicable)

Step 3: Submit your application

Submit your completed application and documents through the Online Permit Center. You’ll need to:

  • Create or log in to your contractor or homeowner account
  • Upload plans and forms
  • Pay any required upfront review fees

Step 4: Plan review & corrections

County staff from Building, Fire, Zoning, Health, and other departments will review your submission. If any corrections are needed, they will be communicated through the online portal. Responding promptly helps prevent delays.

Step 5: Pay final fees & receive permit

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a final invoice. After payment, the permit will be issued and must be posted visibly at the job site.

Step 6: Schedule inspections

Use the Permit Center to request inspections at key phases (e.g., footing, framing, electrical rough, final).

Note: Saturday inspections are now available (between 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.) for added scheduling flexibility.

You can schedule the inspection:

  1. By text:
    1. Text schedule to 877-525-2935
    2. Provide the requested information
      1. Permit number
      2. Inspection code
      3. Date
      4. Comment for inspector
  2. Online:
    1. Login to Permits.Osceola.org
    2. Verify status
    3. Locate your permit
    4. Schedule the inspection

Osceola County permitting resources

Simplify permitting in Osceola County with PermitFlow

Osceola County permits can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you’re juggling multiple projects or navigating the system for the first time. Between application requirements, county reviews, and long approval timelines, even small mistakes can stall your job.

PermitFlow makes the process simple. Our software manages every step — preparing, submitting, and tracking your applications — so your permits get approved faster and with less hassle.

Why contractors choose PermitFlow:

  • Local expertise: Our team knows Osceola County’s permit process inside and out, ensuring smooth approvals.
  • Centralized dashboard: Track and manage all your permits in one place across every project.
  • Faster results: We perfect applications upfront, helping you avoid rejections and cut down on delays.
Don’t let permitting slow you down. Contact us today to see how PermitFlow keeps projects moving forward.

Osceola County is one of Central Florida’s fastest-growing areas, with new homes, commercial developments, and trade projects popping up across the region. Before breaking ground, most work requires an Osceola County building permit to stay compliant with Florida’s building codes and local safety standards.

This guide covers the essentials: which projects require permits, what’s exempt, fee structures, and how to submit an Osceola County building permit application through the online system.

Simplify permitting in Osceola County with PermitFlow. Learn how.

What requires a building permit in Osceola County?

Understanding Osceola County building permit requirements is essential before starting any construction work. Osceola County requires permits for most building activities to ensure safety and code compliance.

  • New residential or commercial buildings
  • Structural modifications and additions
  • Roofing, decks, pools, and exterior alterations
  • Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and mechanical systems
  • Change of use or occupancy
  • Emergency repairs and fire-related changes

The County reviews these under the Florida Building Code and local regulations.

What doesn’t require a permit?

Minor, low-risk activities may be exempt. These typically include cosmetic upgrades such as interior painting or replacing fixtures, not involving structure or utilities. Always check with County permitting staff to confirm exemptions.

Who handles permitting in Osceola County?

Permitting is managed by the Osceola County Building Department.

  • Location: 1 Courthouse Square, Suite 1400, Kissimmee, FL 34741
  • Phone: 407‑742‑0200
  • Hours: Mon–Thu 7:30 AM–5:00 PM, Fri 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Apply, pay, and schedule inspections via the Osceola County permit portal

Osceola County building permit cost

Osceola County building permit fees vary based on the project type and the value of the project. Here's what you should know.

Residential fees

Square footage range Building permit fee Plan review fee
Up to 1,599 sq ft $400.00 + $20.00
1,600 – 1,999 sq ft $480.00 + $20.00
2,000 – 2,999 sq ft $560.00 + $40.00
3,000 – 3,999 sq ft $640.00 + $40.00
4,000 sq ft & over $720.00 + $80.00

Additional fees for residential permits:

  • Archival fee: 3% of building permit fee
  • Radon fee: 2.5% of building permit fee or $4.00, whichever is greater
  • Technology fee: 3% of building permit fee 

Commercial permit fees

Commercial permit fees are calculated based on construction valuation using a valuation-based table (valuations include structure and all trades). The building permit fee scales with value:

  • Up to $5,000 valuation: $85.00
  • Over $5,000 valuation: $150.00 + $3.25 per $1,000 (or fraction) over $5,000
  • Maximum permit fee: $300,000.00

Nested fees include:

  • Boats, carports, gazebos, etc.: Flat permit and plan review fees vary (e.g., carport: $80 + $60 plan review)
  • Fences: $60 permit fee (includes $30 zoning review), with no plan review required
  • Re-roofing: $80 permit fee; higher fee if solar involved

Osceola County trade permits

free trade permit guides

Electrical permits

Used for installing or modifying electrical systems.

Description Fee
Base Fee $125.00
Low Voltage Electric Permit $40.00
Service – Up to 200 AMP $45.00
Each Additional 100 AMP up to 1200 AMP $3.00
Sub-Feed Panel or Sub-Meter $4.50
Temporary Service $22.50
Additional Disconnects $4.50

Additional electric equipment

Description Fee
Transformer up to 50 AMP $3.00
Transformer over 50 AMP $4.00
Display Cases (Neon, etc.) $4.50
Transformer – First $3.75
Transformer – Additional $1.50

Plumbing permits

Required for plumbing and gas system installations.

Description Fee Notes
Base Fee $125.00
Backflow Preventer $5.00 Each
Commercial Disposal $10.00 Each
Drinking Fountain $5.00 Each
Ice Maker (Commercial) $5.00 Each
Septic Tank Connection $10.00 Each
Sewer Tap $10.00 Each
Water Heater $5.00 Each
Water Heater Replacement $25.00 Flat
Water Service $10.00 Each
Water Softener (Commercial) $5.00 Each

Mechanical (HVAC) permits

Needed for heating, cooling, and ventilation installations.

Description Fee
Mechanical Permit Base Fee $125.00
LP Gas Permit Base Fee $125.00
Burners, Furnaces, Incinerators, A/C Units, Boilers $10.00 each + base fee
Gas piping (1–4 outlets) $22.50 + $3.00 per additional outlet
Wall Furnaces / Water Heaters $5.00 each + base fee

Specialty permits

Description Fee Notes
Re-roofing Permit $80.00 No plan review required
Re-roofing (with solar panel removal) $150.00 No plan review; requires solar + electrical + roof
Re-roofing (Solar Shingles) $150.00 Same as above
Wood Deck $90.00 $40 plan review + $50 permit
Swimming Pool/Spa – In-ground $220.00 $60 plan review + $160 permit
Swimming Pool/Spa – Above-ground $160.00 No plan review
Fence (Wood, Chain Link, Vinyl, etc.) $60.00 Includes $30 zoning fee; no plan review
Sign (Wall or Free-standing, Commercial) $220.00 $60 plan review + $160 permit

To get more information on your specific case, refer to the building permit and related fees page.

Take the stress out of permitting
Count on PermitFlow to handle your permit application with ease. Learn more.

How to get a building permit in Osceola County

Step 1: Determine your permit type

Visit the Osceola County Online Permit Center to identify your project category (residential, commercial, accessory structures, etc.). You’ll find the appropriate application forms and submission requirements there.

Step 2: Prepare required documentation

Most applications will require the following:

  • A complete Osceola County building permit application:
  • Site plan and/or construction drawings (to scale)
  • Proof of ownership or contractor authorization
  • Energy compliance forms (REScheck/COMcheck if applicable)
  • Zoning, floodplain, or environmental approvals (if applicable)

Step 3: Submit your application

Submit your completed application and documents through the Online Permit Center. You’ll need to:

  • Create or log in to your contractor or homeowner account
  • Upload plans and forms
  • Pay any required upfront review fees

Step 4: Plan review & corrections

County staff from Building, Fire, Zoning, Health, and other departments will review your submission. If any corrections are needed, they will be communicated through the online portal. Responding promptly helps prevent delays.

Step 5: Pay final fees & receive permit

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a final invoice. After payment, the permit will be issued and must be posted visibly at the job site.

Step 6: Schedule inspections

Use the Permit Center to request inspections at key phases (e.g., footing, framing, electrical rough, final).

Note: Saturday inspections are now available (between 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.) for added scheduling flexibility.

You can schedule the inspection:

  1. By text:
    1. Text schedule to 877-525-2935
    2. Provide the requested information
      1. Permit number
      2. Inspection code
      3. Date
      4. Comment for inspector
  2. Online:
    1. Login to Permits.Osceola.org
    2. Verify status
    3. Locate your permit
    4. Schedule the inspection

Osceola County permitting resources

Simplify permitting in Osceola County with PermitFlow

Osceola County permits can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you’re juggling multiple projects or navigating the system for the first time. Between application requirements, county reviews, and long approval timelines, even small mistakes can stall your job.

PermitFlow makes the process simple. Our software manages every step — preparing, submitting, and tracking your applications — so your permits get approved faster and with less hassle.

Why contractors choose PermitFlow:

  • Local expertise: Our team knows Osceola County’s permit process inside and out, ensuring smooth approvals.
  • Centralized dashboard: Track and manage all your permits in one place across every project.
  • Faster results: We perfect applications upfront, helping you avoid rejections and cut down on delays.
Don’t let permitting slow you down. Contact us today to see how PermitFlow keeps projects moving forward.
contractor working on a frame
Prepare

Prepare and submit permits in days, not weeks

Talk to an Expert
Arrow