Building in the heart of Florida, Polk County, comes with big opportunities…but also plenty of red tape. Sitting between Tampa and Orlando, Polk County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state. Whether you’re working on a subdivision, a multifamily community, or a custom home, securing your Polk County building permit is the first step toward breaking ground.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from which projects require permits, to fees, applications, inspections, and trade-specific rules so you can keep your timeline moving.
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What requires a building permit in Polk County?
According to Polk County’s guidelines and FBC §105.1, permits are required for:
- Any new construction, demolition, or alteration involving structural components or systems (electrical, plumbing, gas, mechanical, fire, solar)
- Converting non-habitable spaces (e.g., enclosing garages, porches) to livable areas
- Pools/spas: in-ground or above-ground deeper than 24″
- Decks, porches, walkways, stairs, platforms, landings
- All roofing, including reroofs and insulated coverings
- Fences and walls: masonry walls with pilasters or solid fences over 8 feet
- Retaining walls (structural/erosion control)
- Docks, piers, sea walls, boathouses, bulkheads, and boat ramps
- Tree houses (unless a tiny, no‑roof/no‑utility type under 32 ft²)
- Flagpoles over 50 feet tall
- Replacement or installation of windows, doors, skylights, siding, soffit, security bars, ramps (handicap), plumbing systems, HVAC change‑outs, and solar systems
- Foundation remediation (requires engineer)
What doesn’t require a permit?
Some minor projects don't require a permit. These include:
- Minor roof repairs (< 25% coverage)
- Replacing screening with like materials
- Interior remodels/repairs on ANSI units or RVs
- Minor repairs to electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems (no extensions)
- Chain link fences of any height; stockade fences up to 8 feet
- Small prefabricated storage sheds (“closet” use only): max 5 ft height, 50 ft² area, 250 ft³ volume, no utilities
Who handles permitting in Polk County?
The Building & Permits Department administers all permitting through the Polk County permit portal, an Accela Citizen Access system.
- Address: 330 W. Church Street, Bartow, FL 33830
- Phone: (863) 534-6000
- Permit Tech: (863) 534-6080
Polk County building permit cost
Polk County building permit fees are based on the total valuation of the project plus additional fees for trade permits. Here’s what you should know.
Residential fees
Commercial fees
Note: Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, HVAC/mechanical, gas, irrigation, etc.) are separate fees and not included in building permit costs, except in the special Single Family Residential Combined Permit.
Polk County trade permits
Electrical permits
Required to install or modify electrical systems, from panel upgrades to low-voltage and solar installs.
Plumbing permits
Needed for plumbing system work, such as drains, fixtures, gas lines, water heaters, etc.
Mechanical (HVAC) permits
Required for any HVAC work, including ductwork and system replacements.
Miscellaneous
Permits required for exterior structural work, including roofing, decks, accessory buildings, pool installs, and substantial fencing.
To find more information on your specific case, refer to the construction permit fees page.
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How to get a building permit in Polk County
Step 1: Confirm permit requirements
Check whether your project requires a permit, based on Florida Building Code regulations or Polk County criteria. If unsure, contact the permit office or speak with a plans examiner at (863) 534‑6080.
Step 2: Prepare your documentation
Gather and prepare:
- Owner information, property address, parcel ID, and job valuation
- Site/lot plan, floor plans, structural drawings, and other project documents
- Trade-related documents if applicable (e.g., electrical, plumbing)
- These are uploaded via the Access Portal during application
Step 3: Submit your application
Register or log in to the Polk County Access Portal (Accela Citizen Access). Complete the Polk County building permit form and upload all required documents.
Step 4: Review & approvals
County staff will review your submission. They may ask for revisions or additional materials to ensure code compliance.
Step 5: Pay fees & issue permit
Once approved, you can pay applicable fees through the portal. After payment, the building permit is officially issued, often electronically.
Step 6: Schedule inspections
Use the Access Portal to schedule your required inspections. Virtual or on-site inspections are available through tools like VuSpex and can be arranged online.
Additional Polk County permitting resources
- Polk County Building Division
- Address: County Administration Building, 330 W. Church Street, Bartow, FL 33830
- Phone: (863) 534‑6080 (Building Division main line)
- Email: BuildingDivision@polk-county.net
- Access Portal
- Florida Building Code regulations
- Construction fees
- Polk County’s guidelines
- FBC §105.1
- Do I Need a Permit?
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