Permit Guide

Building Permits in Pinellas County

Everything you need to know about building permits in Pinellas County. Or skip it all and let us handle everything.

Permit Office

Office

Pinellas County Building Services

Online Portal

Accela Citizen Access

View Pinellas County Permit Fee Schedule

Permit Types

Common Permit Types

New residential construction
Room additions and renovations
Kitchen and bathroom remodels
Roofing permits
Impact window and door installation
Coastal construction zone permits

Service Areas

Cities We Serve in Pinellas County

Clearwater

FAQ

Pinellas County Permit Questions

Does Clearwater have its own permit office separate from Pinellas County?

Yes. The City of Clearwater has its own inspection office at 2741 State Road 580, (727) 562-4567. Properties within Clearwater city limits may go through the city office. We know which jurisdiction applies to your address and file with the correct office.

Are there special permit requirements for coastal properties in Pinellas County?

Yes. Pinellas County has coastal construction zone regulations that apply to beach and waterfront properties. These may require additional engineering, elevated construction, and impact-rated materials. We handle all coastal construction zone requirements.

How long does permit review take in Pinellas County?

Pinellas County publishes typical review timing: express permits are often issued immediately after payment, residential permits typically take about 14 days, and commercial permits about 21 days. Current timing should be checked against the Building Permit Review Times & Activity Dashboard. We submit through Accela Citizen Access and track progress so you do not have to follow up.

Permit Process

How to Get a Building Permit in Pinellas County.

  1. 1

    Hire a licensed CGC

    A Florida Certified General Contractor (CGC1515971) manages the entire permit process on your behalf. You do not visit the permit office.

  2. 2

    Submit plans

    Plans are submitted through Accela Citizen Access. Structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical plans all submitted together with the application.

  3. 3

    Plan review

    Pinellas County publishes typical review timing: express permits are often issued immediately after payment, residential permits typically take about 14 days, and commercial permits about 21 days. Current timing should be checked against the Building Permit Review Times & Activity Dashboard. Complex projects may take longer.

  4. 4

    Permit issuance

    Once approved, the permit is issued. Work may not begin until the permit is posted at the job site.

  5. 5

    Inspections

    Each trade is inspected as work progresses. Rough-in inspections occur before walls close.

  6. 6

    Certificate of completion

    Final inspection passed. Certificate of completion issued. Permit closed.

We Handle It for You

You should not have to navigate Accela Citizen Access or call (727) 464-3888. We pull every permit, schedule every inspection, and manage every code requirement in Pinellas County.

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