Pulling a Roofing Permit in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

You’ve decided it’s time for a new roof or major repairs—perhaps after hurricane damage or years of Florida’s intense sun and rain have taken their toll. As you begin planning your roofing project, you’re immediately faced with a crucial question: “Do I need a roofing permit in Florida?”

The answer is almost always yes, but that’s just the beginning of your journey. Many property owners and contractors find themselves overwhelmed by the complexities of Florida’s roofing permit requirements. Each county and municipality has its own set of rules, forms, and procedures. Without proper guidance, you might face:

• Project delays and costly setbacks
• Potential legal issues and fines
• Insurance claim complications
• The risk of having to remove completed work
• Unexpected expenses and budget overruns

However, there’s good news. With the right information and preparation, applying for a roofing permit in Florida can be a straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Florida roofing permit requirements, ensuring your project starts—and finishes—the right way.

This guide simplifies the process of applying for a roofing permit in Florida, breaking it into actionable steps that empower you to handle it confidently. Whether you’re asking, “Do I need a roofing permit in Florida?” or “How much does a roofing permit cost in Florida?”, we’ve got you covered.

Do You Need a Roofing Permit in Florida?

Florida law requires permits for most construction projects exceeding $2,500 in value. This includes:

• New roof installations
• Complete re-roofing projects
• Major repairs or modifications
• Structural changes to existing roofs

Who Can Pull a Roofing Permit?

1. Licensed Roofing Contractors: Contractors with a Florida Roofing License are eligible to pull permits.
2. General Contractors (GCs): GCs can pull roofing permits if the job is part of a broader project they’re managing.
3. Owner-Builders: Homeowners acting as their own contractor can pull permits under the Owner/Builder Exemption, provided they live on the property.

Steps to Apply for a Roofing Permit in Florida

Let’s break the process into clear steps:

1. Determine Your Jurisdiction

First, identify your property’s municipality. Use your county’s property appraiser website, like Lee County Property Appraiser, to find details such as:

• Parcel ID or Tax Folio Number
• Legal property description
• Owner’s name

The easiest way to find this information is to search for the County’s Property Appraiser.

2. Prepare the Notice of Commencement (NOC)

For projects exceeding $2,500, you’ll need to file a Notice of Commencement (NOC). This document officially records the project’s start and ensures accountability.

• Filing Options: File in person or online using services like SignNow.com (costs ~$80).
• Steps to Fill Out the NOC: Include the Tax Folio number, property details, project description (e.g., reroofing), and contractor information.
• Filing the NOC: Submit it to the county clerk either in person or online through Simplifile.com (cost ~$14.25).

3. Register with the Local Building Department

Contractors need to register with the appropriate building department in the municipality where the project is located. Required documents include:

• Florida Roofing License
• Liability insurance naming the municipality as the certificate holder
• Workers’ compensation certificate naming the municipality as the certificate holder
• Business tax receipt

For example, Lee County contractors can email their documents to ContractorLicensing@leegov.com. You can find the information you need by searching for the County’s Building department and they will have forms available for you or an email address you can use to contact them.  For example Lee County’s Building Department here

4. Gather Supporting Documents

Every jurisdiction has unique requirements, but you’ll typically need:

• Job Valuation: Total estimated project cost.
• NOAs (Notice of Acceptance): Product approval documents for roofing materials, underlayment, and vents. Use Miami-Dade’s Product Search to ensure your NOAs are up to date.
• Additional Forms: Some municipalities require extra forms. For instance, Palm Beach County demands multiple forms, including an expedited worksheet.

5. Submit Your Application

Once you’ve compiled all the necessary documentation, submit your application via the municipality’s permitting platform, such as Accela or Citizen Access portals. Fees will vary based on jurisdiction and project valuation.