PERMITING IN FLORIDA

Building a deck or outdoor structure in South Florida is not the same as building one in other parts of the country. Because of Florida’s strict building codes, coastal exposure, and wind-load requirements, many deck projects require engineering and permits before construction can begin.

Understanding this process upfront helps prevent delays, unexpected costs, and serious legal or safety issues.

In most cases, yes.

Permits are typically required for:

• Elevated or structural decks
• Waterfront decks or docks 
• Decks attached to a structure 
• Commercial, HOA, or multi-unit properties 
• Any deck requiring footings, piles, or structural framing
   

Even ground-level decks may require permits depending on:

• Municipality 
• Size and height 
• Location (coastal, flood zones, setbacks)
   

Every city and county is different, which is why experienced contractors verify permit requirements before construction begins.

Florida’s building code requires many decks to be designed by a licensed professional engineer, especially when they involve:

• Structural loads 
• Elevated platforms 
• Wind resistance 
• Waterfront or coastal exposure
   

Engineering plans define:

• Footings, piles, and foundations 
• Structural framing and connections 
• Load calculations 
• Code and wind-load compliance
   

At South Florida Decks, we work with multiple licensed engineers and coordinate the engineering process on behalf of our clients.

Typical engineering timeline:
Once a design is finalized, engineering plans generally take approximately 30 days, though complex projects may take longer.

1. Design & Engineering
   A design is finalized and sent to an engineer for structural drawings. 
2. Permit Submission
   Engineered plans are submitted to the local municipality. 
3. Municipal Review
   Most municipalities have up to 30 days to review plans. 
4. Revisions (If Required)
   If comments are issued, plans must be revised by the engineer and resubmitted. 
5. Permit Issuance
   Once approved, construction can legally begin.
    

Permit fees are typically based on the declared value of the project, which is why costs can be difficult to predict early. We provide realistic estimates whenever possible.

Hiring an unlicensed contractor can expose homeowners and property owners to serious risk, including:

• Stop-work orders 
• Fines and penalties 
• Voided insurance coverage 
• Difficulty selling or refinancing the property 
• Liability for injuries or damages
   

In many cases, the property owner becomes responsible, even if they were unaware the contractor was unlicensed.

Building without required permits can lead to:

• Forced removal or demolition 
• Costly retroactive engineering 
• Failed inspections 
• Legal and insurance complications 
• Delays during property sale or HOA approval
   

Unpermitted work often ends up costing far more than doing it correctly from the start.

While permitting and engineering can feel time-consuming, they exist to:

• Ensure structural safety 
• Protect occupants and property 
• Verify code compliance 
• Preserve property value 
• Reduce long-term liability
   

Properly permitted and engineered decks are safer, stronger, and easier to insure, sell, and maintain.

We guide clients through the process from start to finish by:

• Coordinating with licensed engineers 
• Submitting permit applications 
• Responding to municipal comments 
• Scheduling inspections 
• Ensuring compliance at every stage
   

Our goal is not to shortcut the process, but to navigate it efficiently and correctly, so your deck is built once and built right.

If you’re planning a deck or outdoor structure in South Florida, understanding the permitting and engineering process is essential. Working with a professional contractor helps eliminate surprises and ensures your project meets Florida’s strict standards.

If you have questions about permits, engineering, or whether your project requires approval, South Florida Decks can help guide you through the process.