FAQs
Is a building permit required for every improvement or change I make to my house or property?
State law requires that each municipality or county enforce the requirements of the Florida Building Code when a structure is built, altered, added to, removed or otherwise changed. In addition, there are local zoning laws to govern the location, height, and - in some cases - the color of structures and assure adherence to community standards. The permitting process promotes safety and quality, helping to make sure your contractor is doing his or her best.
The Building Division's technical staff reviews plans for proposed work and, by issuing approval, indicates that Florida Building Code requirements will be met. The department's field inspectors observe the work as it progresses to assure that the project is being done in accordance with the approved plans, and is safe and sound. Work conducted without permits cannot be inspected and certified, and may therefore be incorrect, incomplete and/or hazardous.
Aesthetic, non-permanent improvements such as paint, wall and floor finishes, furnishings, etc. generally do not need building permits. If you are unsure if your project requires a permit, please contact the Building Division at (954) 572-2363 for guidance.
How long does it take to get a permit approved?
By law, building permits and the accompanying plans must be reviewed and approved by the applicable building disciplines, i.e., Structural, Electrical, Mechanical (air conditioning, etc.), Plumbing, and - for commercial and multi-story residential buildings - Fire. Simple permits, such as those required to install a fence or re-roof a house, generally take only two days, if the plans and permit application requirements are correct. Permits for single-family homes (construction, alterations or additions) may be approved within two to three weeks, again, if the plans and permit application requirements are correct, and do not need to be returned to the architect for correction. Delays are most often caused when plans are not promptly corrected and resubmitted for review. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the contractor, architect or engineer to submit completed or corrected plans in a timely manner.
I've just discovered that the previous owner of my home performed alterations that were not permitted. What must I do to correct the violation?
First and foremost, please contact the Building Division. Generally, there is no penalty to you. Rather, it is our goal to assist you with the correction process in order to assure that the work will be made safe and meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code. Most often, an architect or contractor can create an "as-built" drawing including any changes required to comply with the Code, and submit it for permitting - albeit after the fact. We will perform the necessary inspections and, upon completion, issue final approval. This is an important step that will establish a legal record and prevent any future sale of the home from being jeopardized due to non-permitted work.
Can I pull permits as a homeowner, or must I hire a contractor?
Florida Statute Section 489.103 provides for an exemption to the requirement for construction work to be performed by a licensed contractor. As a homeowner/builder, you must supervise all of the work yourself, or hire licensed subcontractors only. You may not hire an unlicensed contractor to perform the work. When you apply for a homeowner/builder permit, you must execute an affidavit that affirms you are acting as your own contractor and must comply with all codes, ordinances, etc., as if you were a licensed contractor.
What is a C.O.?
C.O. is the abbreviation for Certificate of Occupancy, which is the legal document that permits the human occupancy of a building. All new construction, additions or building that changes occupancy classifications requires the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy before the space is inhabited. The City's Building Official is the only person authorized by law to issue a Certificate of Occupancy.
What is the zoning on a subject property and what may be built on it?
To determine the answer, first identify the location of the subject property by reviewing a survey, and then find it on a City Zoning Map, determine the zoning designation and refer to Article V (District Regulations) of the Land Development Code for permitted uses.
Where can I obtain a copy of an existing survey for a specific parcel of land?
Please contact the Building Division's plans custodian at (954) 572-2353 for a copy of an existing survey.
What are the required structural setbacks for a subject property?
First identify the location of the subject property by reviewing a survey, and then find it on the City Zoning Map, determine the zoning designation, and refer to the Yard Setbacks section of the identified zoning designation in the City's Land Development Code.
How big of a shed am I permitted to have and where on my property can I place it?
Refer to Section 16-118 (Accessory Uses and Structures) of the City's Land Development Code to find standards for the placement of sheds, pools, screen enclosures, satellite-receiving amateur radio antennas, flags and other accessory structures.
Where and how in the City can I develop a particular use (e.g., residential)?
Find a vacant parcel of land and determine its zoning designation by checking the Zoning Map. If approved for that particular use, confirm that it has been platted for that particular use (density, unit type, etc.) in the public records of Broward County. Once units are confirmed vested or available, follow the City's Site Plan submittal procedure as explained in the Site Plan application.
How are plant connection fees calculated?
Pursuant to Chapter 15 of the City of Sunrise Code, plant connection fees are calculated by using standard water consumption rates developed by the Broward County Health Department. The consumption rates are based upon the type of use that will be consuming the water (i.e. retail, restaurant, office...). Historical consumption rates can be provided, to be used in lieu of the standard consumption rates. Refer to our Historical Consumption Information for submittal requirements.
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10770 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD