FAQs • Dania Beach • CivicEngage

Do my plans need to be signed and sealed by an Architect/Engineer?: Yes. In most cases the plans are required to have the Engineer’s or Architect’s signature and seal.

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Building Division

1. When do I need a building permit?: You need a building permit to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, or demolish any building, structure, or any part thereof, or any equipment, device or facility therein or thereon and if the work entails changes in the use or occupancy of the building. A structure can be limited to a driveway, patio, deck, walkway, fence, retaining wall, shed, gazebo, trellis, antenna tower, fountain, spa or pool. If you are unsure if a permit is required, please contact the Building Division and direct your question to Chief Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing Inspector.

2. As a contractor, what documents are required to register with the city?: Contractors are required to fill out the Contractors Registration Form, signed and notarized, with a copy of the following: The qualifier’s driver’s license, an occupation license or business tax receipt, state certification or state registration, along with the Broward County Certificate of Competency, and certificates of insurance or exemption. The certificates of insurance must show the City of Dania Beach as the Certificate Holder.

3. Can I apply for an Owner-Builder Permit?: Yes, as long as you own the one-family or two-family residence, and the residence is used for your own use or occupancy. You cannot sell your house or duplex for one year after having a final inspection on any owner builder permit. Additional restrictions may apply. Please review Florida Statutes 489.103(b) (7) for additional information.

4. Do I need approval from my Homeowner’s Association (HOA)?: It is recommended that you check with your homeowner’s association before beginning any renovation/construction project.

5. Do I need to install smoke detectors in my existing house when doing an addition?: Yes, when doing an addition, the existing smoke alarm system must be upgraded to include one smoke detector in each bedroom and outside in the bedroom areas.

6. Do I need a permit to replace/repair my fence with the same fence?: Yes, whether destroyed by an act of nature or just changing the type of fence.

7. Does my Building Permit expire?: Issued permits expire if work is not commenced within 180 days or if abandoned for a period of 90 days. When a permit expires, the permit holder is to submit the expired permit request, and pay a fee to reactivate the permit.

8. Does my permit application expire if not issued?: A permit application will become null and void 60 calendar days after the last notification that a review has been done, if no action is taken as in new documentation being submitted or having the permit issued. If the application does expire, the Process fee is non-refundable and would be required to be paid again.

9. How do I make changes to my permit while it is still under review?: Submit a letter of transmittal to the applicable disciplines with two sets of revisions and all supporting documents.

10. Do my plans need to be signed and sealed by an Architect/Engineer?: Yes. In most cases the plans are required to have the Engineer’s or Architect’s signature and seal.

11. How many copies are required?: All documents are required to be submitted in duplicate. After review and approval, one copy will be retained by the city and one copy returned to the applicant, when the permit is issued.

12. When do I need a tree permit?: An approved tree removal permit from planning is required for all properties.

13. What documents do I need to obtain a permit for additions/renovations?: Documents for an addition are identical to the ones required for new construction. A Florida registered Architect/Engineer is required to sign and seal the drawings.

14. Do I need a permit to do landscaping?: New construction requires a landscape sub-permit as an addendum to the building permit. The clearing of a lot for future construction requires an approved, tree removal permit from the Planning Department.

15. Do I have to display my permit card?: Yes, a permit card or a copy shall be displayed during the hours of work in progress and available to the inspector for all inspections

16. What is the purpose of the Notice of Commencement form?: A certified copy of the recorded Notice of Commencement must be submitted to the Building Division prior to the first inspection for permitted work where the direct contract is greater than $2,500, or in the case of existing heating or A/C equipment replacement, greater than $7,500. For more information, please see the Overview of the Construction Lien Law Posted on this site.