About Construction Projects in Tallahassee, FL

As with all construction, there are laws, building codes, and zoning regulations to take into account. The City of Tallahassee and Leon County require builders to stick to the following process.

Building Permits

Whether you’re building a new house, adding on to a building, doing home improvements, putting in a pool, or replacing a roof, you will need a building permit.

The Growth Management Department of the City of Tallahassee issues permits. These include:

• A combination residential building permit for all structural work and any jobs valued at over $1000
• An environmental permit for any job that will disturb an area of over 1000 square feet
• A roofing permit for roofing jobs that cost over $300
• A gas permit for installing new gas lines, adding extra gas piping and installing or replacing gas appliances
• As well as electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits

Before applying, you need to get your plans approved first. This includes plans for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work.

Solar Permits

Leon County encourages using green technologies, like solar systems, in homes. To fit solar and water heating systems you’ll need a separate permit.

License Requirements

All contractors need a state license. The Construction Industry Licensing Board issues licenses. Certified contractors can work anywhere in the state.

The steps to getting a license are:

• Apply for an examination online or via post
• If they approve your application, you will be given an exam date. The exam is quite tough only two out of five people pass. To better prepare yourself, you can enroll in a construction school.
• Once you pass the exam, you’ll register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Take proof of workers’ compensation or exemption, and general liability insurance along when registering. You can only start working once registered.

Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors will apply at the Department of Business and Professional Regulations.

Insurance Requirements

In Tallahassee, you must carry contractor insurance.

Building and General: $300,000 general liability and workersÊcompensation.

Residential, Swimming Pool and Roofing: $100,000 general liability and workers compensation.

General Information

Be Aware of Sinkholes

Sinkholes are common in Florida. Because builders do not have to test the site for sinkholes before building, you need to know how to identify the common signs of a sinkhole. One could form at any time during construction or renovation.

Signs of a Sinkhole Problem:

• Cracks in floors, ceilings, or walls
• Sloping floors
• Interior wall separation
• Cracks in window and door frames
• Leaning fences
• Driveway, foundation, or sidewalk cracks

How to Prevent Triggering Sinkholes:

• Keep an eye on water run-offs. Too much or too little water can cause a sinkhole to form. Check gutters to make sure they don’t run off too close to a foundation.
• Install steel push piers or helical anchors to help prevent sinkholes.

Renting Building Equipment

Getting the right equipment to build with is easy thanks to rental equipment. Equipment rental companies offer all types of aerial and material handling equipment. You can rent forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, and manlifts to get the job done quickly. And if you do come across a sinkhole, earth moving machines like backhoe loaders and compactors can fix it.

Building codes and laws are in place so that building can progress smoothly and safely. Experienced builders know that these rules protect both the builder and client. This means sound homes and safer cities for citizens. If you want to avoid the hassle of getting licensed yourself, contract a company with all the licenses needed instead!