Navigating the Brevard County Building Permit Search

Finding the right Florida building permit is an important part of any project in the Sunshine State. For construction work in Brevard County, Florida, understanding the application process can help you speed up permit approval and prevent the kinds of mistakes that delay projects. 

There’s plenty of room for error when applying for a permit. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the Brevard County permit application process, including what to include, who to contact, and what to expect.

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How building permits work in Brevard County 

Permits give local governments control over what developers build, preventing new construction and renovation projects from disrupting the comfort and functionality of its neighborhoods. They also ensure that construction is safe and up to code. 

When you apply for a permit, you’re informing your local government about what you plan to build and who will be working on it. Brevard County’s Planning and Development Department weighs in on how the project fits into its plans, and then approves accordingly.

What requires a building permit in Brevard County?

Most construction, renovation, and major repair projects in Brevard County require a building permit. Basically, if a licensed contractor is involved, the project probably requires a permit. 

Common projects that typically need a permit can include:

• New construction (homes, commercial buildings, etc.)
• Major additions, renovations, and remodels
• Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work
• Roofing projects
• Window and door replacements
• Swimming pool installation

While some smaller projects may not require a permit, it's always a good idea to check with the County before starting work. Failure to obtain the right permit can result in fines, delays, and even removal of work.

Do I need a permit for a shed in Brevard County, Florida?

One common question for many contractors is whether they need a permit to build a shed on a client’s property. In Brevard County, the answer depends on the size of the shed:

• Sheds under 100 square feet: You do not need a permit for smaller sheds as long as they're not attached to your home and don't have electricity or plumbing.
• Sheds 100 square feet or larger: You will need to obtain a permit for larger structures.

Even if your shed doesn't require a permit, it's important to check local zoning regulations and homeowners association rules, as they may impose different requirements or restrictions.

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Who issues building permits in Brevard County?

Building permits in Brevard County are issued by the Brevard County Planning and Development Department. This department is responsible for reviewing permit applications, conducting inspections, and ensuring that all construction projects meet local building codes and safety standards.

Some developers and permit expediters have relationships with county departments that ease communication roadblocks and speed up the process. If you can make inroads with Brevard County’s permitting officials, it can make life a little easier.

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How do I look up a building permit in Florida?

Brevard County has an online database called BASS (Brevard Advanced Service Site) that you can use to find existing permits for a property. If you want to look up new or existing permits related to your property, this is the place to start. 

Here's how to use BASS:

1. Visit the BASS website
2. Create an account to access the database
3. Enter the required property information (address, permit number, etc.)
4. Review the results

This tool can help you find information about existing permits, check the status of your application, or verify if a contractor has pulled the necessary permits for a project.

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How to pull a permit in Brevard County, Florida

Now that you understand what requires a permit and who issues them, let's walk through the process of actually obtaining a permit in Brevard County.

Get your paperwork together

Before you can get started on the application process, you’ll need to locate all the necessary documents related to your project. 

This usually includes:

1. Proof of property ownership or authorization from the property owner
2. Detailed plans or drawings of your project
3. A site plan showing the location of the proposed work
4. Contractor license information for professionals working on the project
5. Any relevant engineering or architectural drawings
6. Environmental impact assessments (for larger projects)

Paperwork is one of the more difficult parts of pulling a permit. If you don’t have the documents that Brevard County requires, they will deny your permit application.

Complete your application

Once you have all your paperwork in order, it's time to fill out the permit application. Brevard County offers an online option for filling out an application, but you can also apply in person.

Here’s how to apply online for a Brevard County building permit:

1. Navigate to the BASS website
2. Create an account if you don't already have one
3. Choose the appropriate permit type for your project
4. Fill out the application form by providing all required information
5. Upload scans and/or PDFs of supporting documents
6. Pay the application fee

Different permits may require different documentation. Check with Brevard County if you have questions about the requirements and forms needed for your permit.

Contacting Brevard County Planning and Development Department

The Brevard County Planning and Development Department is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Here's how you can reach them:

• Phone: (321) 633-2068
• Email: Impact.Fees@BrevardFL.gov
• Address: 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940

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How PermitFlow simplifies permitting

Plenty of things can go wrong during a construction project, but permit issues don’t have to be part of the headache. PermitFlow is a software-based permitting tool that helps you upload and store project documents and submit them to Brevard County. 

With a team of permitting and development experts, PermitFlow has the in-depth knowledge and insights to ease your permitting process. In many cases, we can pull a permit faster and more accurately, letting you focus on what you do best: building.

PermitFlow helps to simplify permitting through:

1. Centralized application management: Keep all your permit applications in a single place, regardless of the jurisdiction.
2. Document organization: Upload and store project documents securely in the cloud, and access them at your convenience.
3. Status tracking: Get real-time updates on the status of your permit applications so you always know where you stand.
4. Expert support: Access to a team of permitting experts who can answer questions, provide guidance, and even communicate with Brevard County on your behalf.
5. Jurisdiction-specific guidance: PermitFlow has tailored information and requirements for each jurisdiction, providing you with the most up-to-date information.

Get started with PermitFlow

Using PermitFlow can help you save time, reduce errors, and streamline your entire permitting process in Brevard County and beyond. You don’t have to navigate the permitting process on your own. Get started today by contacting PermitFlow’s team of permitting experts.