Homestead Streamlines Building Projects with New Private Provider Program, Accelerating Construction

Homestead is utilizing Florida's Private Provider Program, allowing licensed professionals to conduct building plan reviews and inspections. This initiative, authorized under Florida Statute Section 553.791, aims to streamline the construction process for local projects while the City maintains essential oversight.

The program permits private providers to handle plan reviews and inspections for building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing disciplines. However, critical approvals and inspections for other areas, such as engineering, zoning, fire, landscape, and utilities, remain under the purview of their respective City divisions. This ensures that specialized municipal expertise continues to be applied where necessary.

A key requirement of the Private Provider Program dictates that if a private provider performs the initial plan review for a project, the same provider must also carry out all subsequent inspections for that specific project. This measure ensures continuity and accountability throughout the construction phases. Additionally, all inspection reports must be submitted to the City within four days of completion.

Firms wishing to participate in the program must complete a one-time registration process through the City’s EPL B.U.I.L.D. system. Once approved, these firms are authorized to offer private provider services. Project-specific permit applications then require the submission of a 'Notice to Building Official' and a 'Private Provider Plan Compliance Affidavit' to initiate the process.