You have building permit questions?
We have answers!

• What’s a soil test and how do I know if I need one?
• I have an old survey of my property.  Can I use it for permitting or do I need to get a new one?
• I want to do some interior renovating, do I need a permit?
• I’m excited about my new project and anxious to get started.  Can I begin construction before the permit is issued?
• Is a permit required if I want to add a covered deck or driveway?
• I thought I could apply for a permit myself but after looking through the paperwork, it’s more confusing and complicated than I thought it would be.  Can you help?
• What wind zone am I in?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Permitting Questions in Ocala Florida

What’s a soil test and how do I know if I need one?

We consider a soil test mandatory to clearly understand the subsurface soils.  In Florida, we have many different types of soil conditions and it is critically important that a soil test be completed in order to design the proper foundation solution for those soils.

We would be happy to coordinate this work between you and a geotechnical company that specializes in sinkholes.

If you plan to put in a septic tank and drain field then a soil test is required by the State of Florida Health Department. We can complete and submit the paperwork for you at a nominal fee.
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I have an old survey of my property.  Can I use it for permitting or do I need to get a new one?

It depends on how old the survey is and what improvements have been made to the property since the survey was done.  One of our experts would need to look at both your property and survey before a determination can be made.

Lending institutions will require that a boundary, slab, and final survey be completed during construction if your project is to be financed.

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I want to do some interior renovating, do I need a permit?

It all depends on what you plan to do.  If you’re just going to repaint or refinish existing floors, you won’t need a permit.  However, if you plan to change out the bathroom fixtures, replace windows and exterior doors, and/or add new electrical fixtures, you will need a permit.  The safest thing to do is call us (352) 732-8566 or the Building Department before you start any renovation project.

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I’m excited about my new project and anxious to get started.  Can I begin construction before the permit is issued?

No. Some counties require environmental inspections, surveys and/or land clearing permits so before you do anything it is best to call us first at (352) 732-8566.

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Is a permit required if I want to add a covered deck or driveway?

Yes.  Accessory structures like decks, utility sheds, and garages require a permit.

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I thought I could apply for a permit myself but after looking through the paperwork, it’s more confusing and complicated than I thought it would be.  Can you help?

Yes, we would be happy to help you.  Since 1993, after hurricane Andrew, the permitting process has become more complicated as building codes have become more stringent.  We spend a great deal of time working to stay current with changes in the building codes and permitting requirements.

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What wind zone am I in?

The Florida Residential 2009 Building Code shows the wind-borne debris region and the basic wind speed zone boundaries.   See the map.

 

 

To find out more visit our permitting services page.