Lake Hamilton Building Permits: Dept Clarifies Process

The Lake Hamilton Community Development Department reminds residents and contractors to follow established procedures when applying for building permits.

To apply, individuals must download and complete the Building Permit Application Form. Submit the form and all required documents to the Permitting Department for review by the building and zoning department before approval.

While the department encourages using its online portal for faster application submissions, some plans require physical submission. Large plans and new construction projects necessitate bringing physical documents to the Permitting Department.

Contractors undertaking new construction must adhere to Water Star Program guidelines or formally request an exemption. The contractor is responsible for securing all proper inspections and certifications before a Certificate of Occupancy (C/O) is issued.

Contractors seeking to apply for a building permit must register and submit several documents: a copy of their Florida State License, County Business Tax Receipt, a Power of Attorney if applicable, a Certificate of Liability naming the Town, and proof of workers' compensation or an exemption. Contractor registration is free but requires annual renewal.

Florida State Statute 713.13 requires a Notice of Commencement (NOC) for certain projects. This notice must be recorded with the clerk before work begins, and a certified copy or notarized statement of its filing must be posted at the job site.

Residents should be aware that under Florida law, email addresses are public records. To prevent potential release, contact the department by phone or in writing instead of email.