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Homeowner & Small Business Permitting Assistance

Miami-Dade County has developed free Homeowner and Small Business Permitting Assistance services to assist these individuals with their permit needs. 

Whether you are renovating or remodeling your dream home, opening a small business, or correcting a zoning or building violation, the Homeowner and Small Business Assistance Team helps to navigate you through the permitting process at no additional cost. The only fees required to obtain your permits are the regular permit fees set forth in the fee schedule.

What is the cost of this service?

There is no cost associated with this permitting advisory. Consultations with our permitting assistance specialists are free of charge.

How will the service be provided?

We provide our services in person, over the phone, or via email. It is recommended to schedule in-person appointments for complex cases because several trade disciplines may need to be consulted. Our permitting specialists will provide you with step-by-step support includes:
  • Verification of whether a permit is required, and the type of permit required for your project or business
  • Steps for the permitting process that apply to your case
  • Applications and requirements needed for your project
  • Learn how to complete forms, submit applications, receive and check status updates, retrieve your permit and other approved documents, and schedule/track your inspections
  • Where to find permit fee information
  • When a different department or section should be consulted by you, it will be indicated by our specialists. Depending on the complexity of your case, they may accompany you to meet in-person with the relevant discipline. 

What should I expect of this service?

Our specialists will provide you with the proper procedure to obtain your permit. In a violation case, you will be presented with as many routes as possible to comply with the codes, giving you options for your decision. Since every case is different, you should expect:
  • Your property address will be checked for any building or zoning violations, open permits, and applications and how to address them
  • The process for obtaining a permit for your specific case (new or legalization projects) will be explained and you will be guided by our specialists through the entire permitting process
  • You will receive assistance in completing your forms and preparing the appropriate requirements for a seamless review from plan processors
  • You will receive follow-ups regarding your application status and how to check it online
  • Depending on the scope of your project, you may have to speak or meet with several disciplines to verify the requirements (in person, by phone or virtually)
  • In some cases, our team will review the pending disapproval remarks with Plan Review Staff so we can provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of what is required
  • Depending on the scope of your project or legalization, you may be required to hire a design professional (architect or engineer) to prepare plans and drawings to obtain the permit
  • You will be informed if a licensed contractor is necessary or if you are eligible to apply for an owner-builder permit
  • For some permits, you may submit sketches or drawings prepared by yourself with our guidance
  • Become familiar with your responsibilities as a property owner when applying for a permit.

Is there anything I should bring to my first consultation?

When you come in for your first appointment, bring the following with you: 
  • Proof of ownership of the property (warranty deed or tax receipt); or a copy of the lease if a small business; especially if you recently purchased your property or started a new business
  • If available, existing plans for your home or business showing floor layout; or plans for proposed work from an architect or engineer
  • If available, a survey or site plan for the property
  • If applicable, a copy of the notice of any violations for which you started work without the required permits; or for which your existing permit expired with pending inspections or completion holds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Online Options

Schedule appointment

Related Resources

How to apply for a permit

Phone

786-315-2388