Home
BlogPinellas County Building Permit Guide
Pinellas County Building Permit Guide
Francis Thumpasery
Last updated:
May 16, 2025
If you’re a contractor, builder, or developer taking on projects in Pinellas County, Florida, getting the right permits is critical for keeping timelines on track and avoiding costly delays. This guide breaks down the essentials of navigating the permitting process, helping you cut through red tape and keep your crews moving. From plan reviews to final inspections, we’ve got you covered.
Simplify permitting in Pinellas County with PermitFlow. Learn more here.
What requires a building permit in Pinellas County?
Pinellas County permits are required for any construction or modification work to prove that your project adheres to safety standards and follows local codes.
This includes:
- New construction (residential or commercial)
- Additions or alterations to existing structures
- Demolition of structures
- Projects requiring inspections, such as:
- Roof replacements
- Window and door replacements
- HVAC installations or replacements
- Electrical or plumbing work
- Swimming pool installations
- Construction of sheds over 100 square feet
- Installation of fences over six feet in height
What doesn’t require a building permit in Pinellas County?
Not all projects require you to obtain a permit.
These projects don’t require a building permit but do require need zoning clearance or other approvals:
- Residential utility sheds under 100 square feet
- Fences under six feet in height
- Paving and driveway work
These projects don’t require a permit or zoning clearance:
- Work that is strictly cosmetic, including painting, wallpapering, carpeting, kitchen cabinets, etc.
- Roof work that is less than $750 in value. View the Roofing Policy for more details.
Always verify with the Pinellas County Permitting Guide or contact the Building Services Department at (727) 464-3888 to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Pinellas County?
Yes, you will likely need a permit to remove a tree. Exact permitting requirements and fees depend on the location and property type.
- Removing a tree in the public right-of-way requires a Utilization Permit.
- Removing a tree on private property in unincorporated areas requires a Habitat Permit
- Removing a dead tree requires a Habitat Permit
Tree removal permit fees in Pinellas County depend on multiple factors, including lot size and the quantity and quality of trees being removed.
To apply for a tree removal permit:
- Confirm your property is within the applicable jurisdiction
- Create an account or log into the Pinellas County Access Portal
- Select "Develop," then "Create an Application"
- Choose "Tree Removal/Habitat Permit" and complete the application
- Upload required documents (e.g., a site plan/survey showing the location of the tree)
How long do building permits last in Pinellas County?
In Pinellas County, your building permit stays valid for 6 months from when you get it or from your last passed inspection. If your project is dormant during 6 six months, your permit will expire.
Need more time? You can ask for an extension, but make sure to send a written request to the Building Official before your permit runs out.
How to look up permits in Pinellas County
To search for building permits in unincorporated Pinellas County and certain municipalities (e.g., Belleair Beach, Belleair Bluffs, Belleair Shore, Indian Rocks Beach, Kenneth City, Oldsmar, and Safety Harbor), use the Pinellas County Access Portal. Here you can search by address, permit number, or contractor name.
Pinellas building permit fees
Some Pinellas County building permit fees are charged as a flat rate, while others are based on the total valuation of the project. Below is a summary of common fees:
Residential permit fees
| Permit Type |
Fee |
Residential construction
(includes building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, inspections, and plan review)
|
- Valuation < $600,000:
- $11.00 per $1,000.00
- Min. $100.00 per inspection
- Valuation > $600,000:
- $8.00 per $1,000.00
- Min. $100.00 per inspection
|
| Demolition |
$225 |
| Reroof |
$180 for first 20 squares, $1.50/each additional square |
| Windows, doors, shutters, garage doors |
$145 per 20 openings; $5/each additional opening |
Solar - photovoltaic systems
(includes plan review for wind resistance engineering)
|
$250 |
| Spas, swimming pools and hot tubs |
- $550
- + $5.50 per $1,000.00 for additional value exceeding $40,000
|
Generator
(includes all trades and plan review)
|
$300 |
| Electrical service change |
$135 |
| Water heater replacement |
$85 |
| New utility site work, sewer or water |
$100.00 first 100 ft.; $75.00 each add'l 100 ft. |
| Plan review |
25.0% of permit fee; Min. $125.00 |
Commercial permit fees
| Permit Type |
Fee |
Commercial construction
(includes building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, inspections, and plan review)
|
- Valuation < $1M:
- $9.00 per $1,000
- Min. $100 per inspection
- Valuation > $1M:
- $8.00 per $1,000
- Min. $100 per inspection
|
| Demolition |
$325 |
| Reroof |
$180 for first 20 squares, $1.50/each additional square |
| Windows, doors, shutters, garage doors |
$145 per 20 openings; $5/each additional opening |
Solar - photovoltaic systems
(includes plan review for wind resistance engineering)
|
$250 |
| Electrical service change |
$170 |
| Water heater replacement |
$85 |
| New utility site work, sewer or water |
$100.00 first 100 ft.; $75.00 each add'l 100 ft. |
| Plan review |
25.0% of permit fee; Min. $125.00 |
Additional charges
| Fee Type |
Amount |
| Reinspection fee |
$75 |
| Flood variance request |
$400 |
| Mail-in permit submittal processing fee |
$100 |
| Permit reinstatement (reinstatement of expired permit) |
$125 |
| After-the-fact permit |
2 times the normal permit fee |
How to get a building permit in Pinellas County
Step 1: Determine permit requirements
Figure out what your project involves and which permits you'll need. Not sure? Take a look at the Pinellas County Permitting Guide — it breaks down all the permit requirements in detail so you won't miss anything.
Step 2: Prepare your application
Gather all required documents, which include:
- Completed permit application
- Detailed drawings of the proposed work
- Site plan
- Energy compliance forms
- Stormwater requirements checklist
- Owner-builder verification form
- Project contact information form
- Hazardous materials questionnaire
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application and supporting documents through the Pinellas County Access Portal.
Step 4: Plan review
The Building Department will review your application and plans for compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
Step 5: Permit issuance
Once your application is approved, you will receive your building permit. Make sure to post it where everyone can see it at your work site, and keep all your construction in line with the plans that were approved.
Step 6: Inspections
Schedule required inspections at various stages of construction. These checkups make sure everything meets building codes. Remember, you need to pass these inspections before moving on to the next step of your construction work.
Pinellas County permitting resources
For assistance and more information, please refer to the following resources:
Streamline Pinellas County permitting with PermitFlow
Don’t let permit issues slow down your next project in Pinellas County. Whether you’re managing a commercial build or a large-scale residential development, having the right permitting support can make all the difference.
PermitFlow is permit management software for construction businesses, contractors, and developers. We handle permit preparation, submission, and tracking nationwide — across all municipalities you’re building in.
Why choose PermitFlow:
- We know the local rules: Our team understands exactly what Pinellas County officials are looking for, so we get it right the first time
- Everything in one place: See all your permits on a single screen — no more hunting through emails and paperwork
- Get building sooner: We submit everything correctly from the start, cutting down wait times so you can break ground faster
Don't let permit problems delay your project. Contact us today to learn how PermitFlow can save you time.
If you’re a contractor, builder, or developer taking on projects in Pinellas County, Florida, getting the right permits is critical for keeping timelines on track and avoiding costly delays. This guide breaks down the essentials of navigating the permitting process, helping you cut through red tape and keep your crews moving. From plan reviews to final inspections, we’ve got you covered.
Simplify permitting in Pinellas County with PermitFlow. Learn more here.
What requires a building permit in Pinellas County?
Pinellas County permits are required for any construction or modification work to prove that your project adheres to safety standards and follows local codes.
This includes:
- New construction (residential or commercial)
- Additions or alterations to existing structures
- Demolition of structures
- Projects requiring inspections, such as:
- Roof replacements
- Window and door replacements
- HVAC installations or replacements
- Electrical or plumbing work
- Swimming pool installations
- Construction of sheds over 100 square feet
- Installation of fences over six feet in height
What doesn’t require a building permit in Pinellas County?
Not all projects require you to obtain a permit.
These projects don’t require a building permit but do require need zoning clearance or other approvals:
- Residential utility sheds under 100 square feet
- Fences under six feet in height
- Paving and driveway work
These projects don’t require a permit or zoning clearance:
- Work that is strictly cosmetic, including painting, wallpapering, carpeting, kitchen cabinets, etc.
- Roof work that is less than $750 in value. View the Roofing Policy for more details.
Always verify with the Pinellas County Permitting Guide or contact the Building Services Department at (727) 464-3888 to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Pinellas County?
Yes, you will likely need a permit to remove a tree. Exact permitting requirements and fees depend on the location and property type.
- Removing a tree in the public right-of-way requires a Utilization Permit.
- Removing a tree on private property in unincorporated areas requires a Habitat Permit
- Removing a dead tree requires a Habitat Permit
Tree removal permit fees in Pinellas County depend on multiple factors, including lot size and the quantity and quality of trees being removed.
To apply for a tree removal permit:
- Confirm your property is within the applicable jurisdiction
- Create an account or log into the Pinellas County Access Portal
- Select "Develop," then "Create an Application"
- Choose "Tree Removal/Habitat Permit" and complete the application
- Upload required documents (e.g., a site plan/survey showing the location of the tree)
How long do building permits last in Pinellas County?
In Pinellas County, your building permit stays valid for 6 months from when you get it or from your last passed inspection. If your project is dormant during 6 six months, your permit will expire.
Need more time? You can ask for an extension, but make sure to send a written request to the Building Official before your permit runs out.
How to look up permits in Pinellas County
To search for building permits in unincorporated Pinellas County and certain municipalities (e.g., Belleair Beach, Belleair Bluffs, Belleair Shore, Indian Rocks Beach, Kenneth City, Oldsmar, and Safety Harbor), use the Pinellas County Access Portal. Here you can search by address, permit number, or contractor name.
Pinellas building permit fees
Some Pinellas County building permit fees are charged as a flat rate, while others are based on the total valuation of the project. Below is a summary of common fees:
Residential permit fees
| Permit Type |
Fee |
Residential construction
(includes building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, inspections, and plan review)
|
- Valuation < $600,000:
- $11.00 per $1,000.00
- Min. $100.00 per inspection
- Valuation > $600,000:
- $8.00 per $1,000.00
- Min. $100.00 per inspection
|
| Demolition |
$225 |
| Reroof |
$180 for first 20 squares, $1.50/each additional square |
| Windows, doors, shutters, garage doors |
$145 per 20 openings; $5/each additional opening |
Solar - photovoltaic systems
(includes plan review for wind resistance engineering)
|
$250 |
| Spas, swimming pools and hot tubs |
- $550
- + $5.50 per $1,000.00 for additional value exceeding $40,000
|
Generator
(includes all trades and plan review)
|
$300 |
| Electrical service change |
$135 |
| Water heater replacement |
$85 |
| New utility site work, sewer or water |
$100.00 first 100 ft.; $75.00 each add'l 100 ft. |
| Plan review |
25.0% of permit fee; Min. $125.00 |
Commercial permit fees
| Permit Type |
Fee |
Commercial construction
(includes building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, inspections, and plan review)
|
- Valuation < $1M:
- $9.00 per $1,000
- Min. $100 per inspection
- Valuation > $1M:
- $8.00 per $1,000
- Min. $100 per inspection
|
| Demolition |
$325 |
| Reroof |
$180 for first 20 squares, $1.50/each additional square |
| Windows, doors, shutters, garage doors |
$145 per 20 openings; $5/each additional opening |
Solar - photovoltaic systems
(includes plan review for wind resistance engineering)
|
$250 |
| Electrical service change |
$170 |
| Water heater replacement |
$85 |
| New utility site work, sewer or water |
$100.00 first 100 ft.; $75.00 each add'l 100 ft. |
| Plan review |
25.0% of permit fee; Min. $125.00 |
Additional charges
| Fee Type |
Amount |
| Reinspection fee |
$75 |
| Flood variance request |
$400 |
| Mail-in permit submittal processing fee |
$100 |
| Permit reinstatement (reinstatement of expired permit) |
$125 |
| After-the-fact permit |
2 times the normal permit fee |
How to get a building permit in Pinellas County
Step 1: Determine permit requirements
Figure out what your project involves and which permits you'll need. Not sure? Take a look at the Pinellas County Permitting Guide — it breaks down all the permit requirements in detail so you won't miss anything.
Step 2: Prepare your application
Gather all required documents, which include:
- Completed permit application
- Detailed drawings of the proposed work
- Site plan
- Energy compliance forms
- Stormwater requirements checklist
- Owner-builder verification form
- Project contact information form
- Hazardous materials questionnaire
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application and supporting documents through the Pinellas County Access Portal.
Step 4: Plan review
The Building Department will review your application and plans for compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
Step 5: Permit issuance
Once your application is approved, you will receive your building permit. Make sure to post it where everyone can see it at your work site, and keep all your construction in line with the plans that were approved.
Step 6: Inspections
Schedule required inspections at various stages of construction. These checkups make sure everything meets building codes. Remember, you need to pass these inspections before moving on to the next step of your construction work.
Pinellas County permitting resources
For assistance and more information, please refer to the following resources:
Streamline Pinellas County permitting with PermitFlow
Don’t let permit issues slow down your next project in Pinellas County. Whether you’re managing a commercial build or a large-scale residential development, having the right permitting support can make all the difference.
PermitFlow is permit management software for construction businesses, contractors, and developers. We handle permit preparation, submission, and tracking nationwide — across all municipalities you’re building in.
Why choose PermitFlow:
- We know the local rules: Our team understands exactly what Pinellas County officials are looking for, so we get it right the first time
- Everything in one place: See all your permits on a single screen — no more hunting through emails and paperwork
- Get building sooner: We submit everything correctly from the start, cutting down wait times so you can break ground faster
Don't let permit problems delay your project. Contact us today to learn how PermitFlow can save you time.
