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general information description of jobs application process

Do I need a permit to replace a fence?

The City of Altamonte Springs divides fence work into following tow categories:

Maintenance/Repair - Which consists of the replacement of the wooden or vinyl slats, chain link or horizontal cross braces of an existing fence. This type of work does not require a permit.

The elevation of the new slats or fence sections shall not exceed the height of the pre-existing fence. In areas where the fence abuts an existing right of way, the city would prefer that the smooth side of the fence face the right of way.

Replacement - Consists of the removal and/or replacement of the support poles of an existing fence. This type of work does require a permit be obtained from the Altamonte Springs Building/Fire Safety Division.

Along with the application, you will need to provide three copies of your property's site plan or boundary survey indicating where the fence is being placed.

Do I need a permit to have a garage sale?

No - but signs must not be placed in street right-of-way.

Do I need a permit to paint?

No - any type of work that would be considered cosmetic (i.e. painting, carpeting, replacement of cabinetry) does not require a permit. Any work that would change the structural integrity of a building does require a permit. (See Permit Listing for a complete listing of projects that require a permit)

*** Changes to exterior color of buildings in the West Town Center or Gateway Center areas do require the pre-approval of the Development Review Committee ***

Can a homeowner / Building owner pull their own permit?

Yes - however the homeowner / building owner must also be the sole occupant of the building. We strongly recommend that a licensed contractor be hired to pull the permit and perform the work. Please see the Homeowner/Contractor Disclosure Statement on the website that will further explain the legal responsibilities of the homeowner/building owner pulling their own permit.

How long is a permit valid for?

A permit will expire 6 months from date of issue if no inspections are called in for the project. In order to reinstate a permit, a written request must be directed to the Building Official.

What codes have been adopted by the City?

The City of Altamonte Springs is under the 2004 Edition of the Florida Building and Florida Fire Prevention Code.

How long does it take for a plan review?

This depends on the size of the project and the current workload of the Building/Fire Safety Division. However, our division attempts to do commercial plan review within 10 - 15 working days. Residential projects are normally done in 2 - 3 working days.

Can I start work on a project before my plan is reviewed?

No - the City of Altamonte Springs does not issue an early start permit. A permit can be pulled to begin demolition on a project, however, this must also go through a review process.

Can a homeowner submit their own hand drawn plans?

It is possible that hand-drawn plans would be accepted for a residential project. However, they must comply with SSTD 10-96 (Standard for Hurricane Resistant Residential Construction) published by the Southern Building Code Congress International or RCS-96 (Residential Construction Standard) written by O.E. Olsen & Associates, Structural Engineers.

So, should I get an architect or engineer?

We would recommend that you do have their plan prepared by a registered Florida architect or engineer. Their signature and seal on a blueprint shows us the plan has been prepared under the proper codes. Most commercial projects will require an engineer or architect prepared plans.

What is the minimum windspeed design in the City of Altamonte Springs?

What does a contractor need to do in order to pull a permit in Altamonte Springs?

A contractor must present a copy of a Florida issued state license, a copy of a local occupational license and proof of workers compensation coverage, or proof of workers comp. exemption. This information is entered into our database and as long as the information remains current, permits can be pulled. There is no charge to the contractor for this service.

Where do I call to get an inspection?

Please call the Building / Fire Safety Division administrative staff at: 407-571-8433. Inspections are taken between the hours of 7:30am and 4:00pm for the following day. Please be sure to have your permit number ready to give the staff person!

How do I know the work done by a contractor has been done correctly?

Any permitted construction work must be inspected by the City. It is the responsibility of your contractor to ensure that finals are called in and pass inspection. Contractors that fail to do so can be reported to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. You can also check with the DBPR to ensure that the contractor you hire is properly licensed. (Please see our Consumer Tips page for additional guidance in dealing with contractors.)