Yulee Building Department Reflects on Past Fiscal Year Goals, Looks Ahead

YULEE – The Yulee Building Department has been busy over the past fiscal year, implementing new codes, enhancing customer service, and preparing for future challenges. As of today, September 18, 2026, the department has completed several key initiatives outlined for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, which concluded on September 30, 2025.

A significant undertaking involved the adoption and enforcement of the 2023 Florida Building Code 8th Edition Family and the 2020 National Electric Code/NFPA 70. These codes became effective on December 31, 2023, and the department updated its website and all permitting documents to reflect the new regulations and required changes. Additionally, Chapter 7 of the Local Development Code (LDC) saw updates with local administrative changes to align with the Florida Building Code.

The department also focused on operational readiness and staff development. Staff participated in training for CrisisTrac, aiming to include more personnel and preplan for deployments in cooperation with the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The Milestone Inspection Ordinance, mandated by F.S. 553.899, was completed and implemented. Furthermore, the department updated its Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) files with new required forms.

Customer care remained a priority for the Building Department. They continued to provide excellent service standards for contractors, owner/builders, and the general public, while also working to improve permit turnaround times and overall efficiency. Maintaining State of Florida licenses and ICC certifications for licensed Building staff through ongoing education and training was also a continuous effort. Inspectors received field training and participated in an in-house cross-training program, with inspector trainees working to obtain their Residential Inspector license. Policies and procedures within the Building Department also saw continuous updates as changes arose.

Engagement with the local building community was another area of focus. The department maintained communication with the Northeast Florida Builders Association through participation in sponsored events and Zoom meetings. They also continued to improve website bulletin information for builders and property owners. Their involvement in FEMA's Community Rating System (CRS) program, which focuses on floodplain management, continued to benefit Nassau County property owners with lower flood insurance rates. The Deputy Floodplain Manager and CRS coordinator regularly attended CRS meetings with the City of Fernandina Beach.

Looking ahead, the department will continue its commitment to customer service and efficiency. They are assisting the IT Department in implementing new software, Accela, which will expand the ability to receive online permitting for both large and small projects requiring plan review. This initiative aims to streamline the permitting process for residents and contractors alike. The department also plans to update contractor licensing policies to ensure compliance with new State laws and regulations.

Professional development for staff remains important. The Deputy Building Official, a Plans Examiner, and an Inspector attended the Building Officials Association of Florida (BOAF) conference in Orlando to gain ICC/State Continuing Education Units (CEUs). The Building Official also attended the Association of State Floodplain Managers conference. These efforts ensure the department's staff remains current with industry standards and best practices.