Permits

City Government Permits

From renovations and building to guns and work approvals, your city government is responsible for issuing a myriad of permits. Securing the appropriate permit ensures you can conduct your activities or business in a lawful manner.

Obtaining building permits and construction permits

While some cities are responsible for issuing gun permits and work permits, the most common types of issuances are building permits and construction permits.

Some of the permits typically issued by the building or zoning divisions in your city are for:

• New construction
• Renovations or repairs
• Plumbing or gas
• Sprinkler and fire protection
• Occupancy

For most cities, any type of construction or repair that changes a structure requires a city building permit. Some local governments have even stricter permit regulations; for example, if you live in Miami, you need to obtain Florida building permits for simply adding a burglar alarm, lawn sprinkler system, and cable satellite dishes.

It is required that all permits be in compliance with your state and city zoning codes. Once a permit is issued, an inspector is alerted to work being performed at your job site. It is the inspector’s job to visit the building site and enforce the city’s building codes.

You have to visit the building department in your city to get the necessary forms to apply for a building permit. For example, if you are seeking a Florida building permit, you visit the city’s Building Inspection Department in person or online to secure an application form.

Typically, any permits older than 30 days need re-applications. The application has to be signed in person and paid for before any work can begin.

Please keep in mind other permits tied to your construction project may be required. Some of those other permits can include a septic permit, electrical permit, plumbing permit, HVAC, and even a fence permit.

Applying for a residential parking permit

In areas of some cities where on-street parking spaces are at a premium, it is necessary for local residents to apply for a parking permit. In these areas, on-street parking is closely regulated as “Resident Parking Only.” Residents in these areas must apply for a residential parking permit to avoid receiving parking tickets. Many cities allow you to reapply on-line. The city then mails your new parking permit. The procedure is relatively straightforward.

• Completely fill out the appropriate application. It can be downloaded off the Internet or a hard copy can be obtained at city hall.
• You need to present a valid vehicle registration showing your current address
• You also need to submit a gas, electric, phone, water, sewer, credit card bill, or bank statement showing your current address and postmarked within the last 30 days.

Applying for a street use/special event permit

If you are planning an event, you need to secure the appropriate county permits and parking permits. Check with your city far enough in advance to ensure you provide the government with the adequate amount of time to review your application. Upon completing the permit application, some basic information will be required:

• An approximate number of people attending the event
• The date of the event
• The time and length of the event
• The name of the group sponsoring the event
• The name, address, and telephone number of a contact person

During your special event, “street closed” signs and/or barricades will be required. Check to ensure your signage meets your city’s requirements. All signage must be supplied by the organization or persons involved in the street closures. In some cities, neighborhood block party signs may not be acceptable.

You will, of course, have to pay your fees before a permit will be issued. If your event will attract 300 or more people, or continue on after dark, your city may require additional insurance for your event. Check with your city if you need additional liability insurance.

Also keep in mind if you require the services of your local police department, permitting procedures or requirements may be different. Lastly, if you’re using valet parking at your special event, the valet company will have to apply for a city permit as well.