In This Article
St. Augustine's rich history and unique architecture make it a special place to own a home. However, this also means navigating a permit process that can be more complex than other Florida cities, especially if your home is in a historic district. Here's everything you need to know about home renovation permits in St. Augustine.
When Do You Need a Permit?
In St. Augustine, permits are required for most renovation work that goes beyond cosmetic updates.Projects That Require Permits
- • Electrical work (new circuits, panel upgrades, rewiring)
- • Plumbing modifications (moving fixtures, new lines)
- • Structural changes (removing walls, adding openings)
- • HVAC system changes
- • Roofing replacement
- • Window and door replacements (in some cases)
- • Home additions
- • New construction
- • Swimming pools
Projects That Typically Don't Require Permits
- • Interior painting
- • Flooring replacement (non-structural)
- • Cabinet replacement (same location)
- • Fixture replacement (same location)
- • Landscaping (with some exceptions)
St. Augustine's Historic District Requirements
If your property is in one of St. Augustine's historic districts, you'll need additional approvals.Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)
Properties in the historic district must obtain HARB approval for exterior changes:- • Window replacements
- • Door replacements
- • Roofing changes
- • Siding or stucco modifications
- • Additions visible from the street
- • Exterior color changes
- • Fence installations
What HARB Considers
- • Compatibility with historic character
- • Appropriate materials and methods
- • Impact on neighboring properties
- • Preservation of original features
Tips for HARB Approval
- • Research your home's history before proposing changes
- • Use period-appropriate materials when possible
- • Consult with experienced contractors familiar with historic properties
- • Attend HARB meetings before submitting your application
The Permit Process
Step 1: Determine Requirements
Contact the St. Johns County Building Department or work with a licensed contractor to determine what permits you need.Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Required documents typically include:- • Completed permit application
- • Site plan showing property boundaries
- • Construction plans (for major work)
- • Engineering calculations (if structural)
- • Product specifications
- • Contractor license information
Step 3: Submit Application
Applications can be submitted:- • Online through the county portal
- • In person at the Building Department
- • Through your licensed contractor
Step 4: Plan Review
The building department reviews your plans for code compliance. This typically takes:- • Simple permits: 1-3 business days
- • Complex projects: 2-4 weeks
- • Historic district projects: Additional 2-4 weeks for HARB
Step 5: Inspections
During construction, inspections are required at various stages:- • Foundation (for additions)
- • Rough-in (electrical, plumbing, framing)
- • Insulation
- • Final inspection
Common Permit Mistakes to Avoid
Starting Work Without Permits
Working without required permits can result in:- • Stop-work orders
- • Fines
- • Required removal of unpermitted work
- • Issues when selling your home
- • Insurance complications
Hiring Unlicensed Contractors
Florida law requires contractors to be licensed for most construction work. Unlicensed work:- • Won't pass inspection
- • May void your insurance
- • Has no warranty protection
- • Could create liability issues
Incomplete Applications
Speed up approval by ensuring your application includes:- • All required documentation
- • Accurate measurements and specifications
- • Current surveys if required
- • HOA approval if applicable
Working With Wilson & Co Design Build
As a licensed General Contractor (CGC1532295), Wilson & Co Design Build handles the entire permit process for you:- • We determine all required permits
- • We prepare and submit documentation
- • We schedule and attend inspections
- • We ensure code compliance
- • We coordinate with HARB for historic properties
FAQ
How long does it take to get a permit in St. Augustine? Simple permits can be approved in 1-3 business days. Complex projects take 2-4 weeks. Historic district projects require additional HARB review, adding 2-4 weeks to the timeline. How much do permits cost in St. Augustine? Permit fees vary based on project value and type. Typical fees range from $100 for minor work to several thousand dollars for major renovations. We provide permit cost estimates as part of our project proposals. Can I pull my own permits as a homeowner? Florida allows homeowners to pull permits for their own residence. However, you must personally perform the work, pass inspections, and accept liability. Most homeowners find working with a licensed contractor to be safer and more efficient. What happens if I renovate without a permit? Unpermitted work can result in fines, required removal of work, issues selling your home, and insurance complications. If you discover unpermitted work in your home, consult with a licensed contractor about remediation options. Do I need HARB approval for interior renovations? HARB only reviews exterior changes. Interior renovations don't require HARB approval, though you still need standard building permits for electrical, plumbing, and structural work.Ready to Start Your Project?
Contact Wilson & Co Design Build for a free consultation on your remodeling project.