Permitting FAQ's

• How long will my permit be valid?

  Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within six months after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of six months after the time the work is commenced. If work has commenced and the permit is revoked, becomes null and void, or expires because of lack of progress or abandonment, a new permit covering the proposed construction shall be obtained before proceeding with the work. Work shall be considered to be in active progress when the permit has received an approved inspection within 180 days.

• Can I check the status of my permit application?

  Yes, you can check the status of your permit application using the City's 'Online Permitting' service.

• How long does it take to process an application?

  Processing time will vary depending on the scope of work and the clarity and accuracy of the drawings and/or construction documents. Most minor reviews for applications such as window replacement will be processed in one or two days, a single family residence will normally be processed in ten to fifteen days and a commercial building will normally be processed in thirty days.

• Are impact fees required?

  Impact fees are required as a one time charge on new development to pay its proportionate share of the cost of infrastructure needed to service it. Please refer to the Sarasota County Mobility & Impact Fee Schedule and the City of Venice Impact fee Schedule for more detail.

• Where do I apply?

  You can apply for your permit using our 'Online Permitting' service.  The Building Department is no longer accepting paper permit applications.

• Who can apply for a permit?

  The owner or owners authorized agent. An owner may apply for a building permit in accordance with F.S. 489.103(7) if the requirements for an Owner/Builder Exemption are met. The owners authorized agent must be a state registered, state certified or specialty contractor and must be registered with the City of Venice. Where the aggregate contract for labor, materials and all other items is less than $5000, any person licensed under Part I of Chapter 475 F.S. may act as the owners agent when contracting for repair, maintenance, remodeling or improvement pursuant to that license.

• What work requires a permit?

  Please refer to the building permit 'requirement guidelines'.