Goodbye to these permits in Florida: how HB 803 signed by DeSantis changes things

Florida homeowners will no longer need to obtain a building permit for some smaller home improvement projects after a new law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis took effect.

The legislation, HB 803, updates several provisions of the Florida Building Code with the aim of reducing red tape, speeding up project approvals, and making the state’s inspection system more efficient.

Which homeowners no longer need a building permit in Florida?

Under HB 803, Florida local governments that issue building permits must exempt the owner of a single-family home – or their contractor – from obtaining a building permit for any construction work valued at less than $7,500.

The law also exempts homeowners and their contractors from obtaining a permit to install temporary hurricane or flood protection walls or barriers, provided they meet all of the following requirements:

• The wall or barrier is not habitable and does not support structural loads.
• It is installed on the residential property of a single-family, two-family, or townhouse residence.
• It is built to help prevent or reduce damage from storm surge or flooding.
• It is installed by a licensed contractor.
• It complies with local zoning, drainage, easement, and setback requirements.

However, the exemption does not mean homeowners can begin work without notifying local authorities. To qualify, the homeowner or contractor must submit a written exemption request to the appropriate local government agency, along with documentation showing the nature of the work and its estimated value.

When is a building permit still required in Florida?

Projects valued at more than $7,500 will still require a building permit. The exemption also does not apply to hurricane or flood protection work carried out on properties located in designated flood hazard areas.

In addition, local governments may still require permits for any electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, or structural work, regardless of the project’s cost.

The law also makes clear that homeowners and contractors cannot split a larger construction project into multiple smaller ones to avoid the permit requirement.

HB 803 officially took effect on July 1, 2026.

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