Permit Exemptions (Projects $7,500 or Lower)
Florida law provides a permitting exemption for certain small-scale home improvement projects valued under $7,500 (applies to single-family residential properties only).
Ineligible for the exemption are projects that include:
- Structural changes: moving walls, framing new spaces, providing new openings, or building accessory structures
- Trade work: any electrical, plumbing, mechanical (A/C), or gas line work
- Affecting the building envelope: Replacing windows, exterior doors, shutters, or repairing a roof, because the Town is located in a high-wind coastal zone
Furthermore, state law explicitly states the exemption cannot be used for any project on a property that is partially or wholly located within a Flood Hazard Area. Most properties in Orchid have at least 1 portion that falls into Zone AE, which is such a Flood Hazard Area. Check your property’s flood zone(s) on the Indian River County Interactive Map.
How to Apply for the Exemption
If you’re confident that your project is eligible for the exemption and would require a permit if the value exceeded $7,500, just a little bit of paperwork is needed before you skip the permit. Property owners or contractors must submit a Permit Exemption Application from the Supplemental Forms to the Town’s Building Department.
This should be accompanied by a copy of the contract or other documentation demonstrating the nature and value of the work to be performed. Please deliver at Town Hall or send the packet by emailing the Building Clerk.
The Plans Examiner will verify project eligibility in order to determine if the official green light can be given. Because this regards a permit exemption and thus is processed outside of the Town’s building permit software, please note that the associated fee can only be paid by cash, check, or cashier’s check.
The Town of Orchid has no legal duty to the owner, contractor, successor, or assigns thereof for exempted work performed under this state law.