Gulfport Permit Exemptions for Home Projects July 1

Gulfport homeowners and contractors will no longer need permits for certain small residential construction projects under Florida House Bill 803, which Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law May 7.

Starting July 1, non-structural projects valued under $7,500 qualify for exemptions. Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and gas work remain subject to permitting. Homeowners cannot split larger projects into smaller ones to avoid permits.

To request an exemption, property owners must submit a written request to the City Building Official with a description of the work and a signed, itemized contract. The Building Official must approve the request before work begins.

HB 803 also exempts certain temporary flood barriers at single-family homes, duplexes, and townhouses if they are non-load-bearing, uninhabitable, installed by a licensed contractor, and comply with zoning and setback rules. Properties in flood hazard areas do not qualify.

Approved exemption documentation must remain on-site throughout construction. Code Enforcement may inspect it. A Stop Work Order will be issued if documentation is missing.

The city will not inspect exempt work. Property owners and contractors must ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards.

For exemption forms and details, contact the Building Division at (727) 893-1024 or [email protected].