Sarasota City Building Permits
Permitting Process
Permits are required for:
New construction (homes, commercial buildings).
Renovations (structural, electrical, plumbing).
Repairs (e.g., roof replacements, HVAC upgrades).
Applications are submitted via City of Sarasota Development Services, requiring:
Detailed plans and specifications.
Contractor licensing verification.
Neighborhood association affidavits (e.g., Bird Key).
Processing typically takes 5–15 business days, depending on project complexity.
Milestone Inspections
Effective January 1, 2025, milestone inspections will be required for certain buildings, including condominiums that are more than 30 years old or three stories or taller. Property owners must submit their inspection reports through the City of Sarasota’s online portal. For more information, contact Macy Grochowski at Macy.Grochowski@sarasotafl.gov.
Flood Zone Requirements
Sarasota’s coastal location mandates strict flood zone rules, per FBC R322.1.6:
Elevate structures and appliances (e.g., HVAC units) above base flood elevation.
Use flood-resistant materials below elevation levels.
Obtain flood insurance for FEMA flood zone properties.
Check flood zones at Sarasota County.
Practical Tips
Verify Contractors
Ensure licensing via DBPR.
Submit Complete Plans
Incomplete applications delay approvals.
Plan for Inspections
Schedule early to avoid delays.
Review Local Rules
Check neighborhood association requirements.
FAQs
What projects need permits?
New construction, renovations, and major repairs.
When do milestone inspections start?
January 1, 2025.
How do I check flood zone status?
Use Sarasota County.