When do I need a permit?
A permit is required whenever a building is constructed, altered, moved, demolished, enlarged or structurally altered.

Do I need blueprints for a new home or room addition, and do they need to be drawn by an architect?
Yes, you will need Residential construction plans or the plans must comply with SSTD 10 (Standard For Hurricane Resistant Residential Construction) written by the  International/International Code Council .  Screen rooms or aluminum type structures must have engineering submitted at the time of permitting.

What are the requirements for obtaining a permit for a commercial building?
This question has multiple answers. Please see Requirements for Commercial Plan Review

Where and how do I apply for a permit?
Highlands County Building Department is located at 501 S. Commerce Ave. (Suite 1), Sebring Florida. Our hours are 7:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Securing a permit can be a little frightening to some people, but you should not have any problems if you follow these guidelines.

How do I know if I am hiring a reputable contractor?
First is the person you are dealing with licensed? If you aren't sure you can call the Building Department (402-6644) or the Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation (850-488-3109). If you follow a few simple guidelines in choosing a contractor, you shouldn't have any problems. DBPR Protection for disaster victims and unlicensed contractors:

Do I need a permit for a fence?
Yes, and you must be sure that you comply with any Zoning Department regulations. You may contact the Zoning Department at 402-6638.

Must I place street numbers on my house or business?
Yes, these are required under county ordinance Sec. 9-35. They must be over the front entrance and 4" minimum in height. 

How do I know what inspections I need?
There are many different types of required inspections, this will depend on the type of project you are undertaking. Follow the link to Required Inspections and hopefully it should answer all your question.

Do I need a permit for a driveway?
Yes, a building permit is required if concrete is being poured and a permit from the County Engineer's Office, however  if it will not be concrete you will only need to obtain a  driveway permit from the County Engineer's Department (402-6877).

How long is a building permit valid?
A permit is valid one year from date of issuance and as long as work is being performed on the project the permit is valid. If the project is dormant for six months then the permit is expired. A permit that expires can be reinstated only by a written request to the Building Official.

How many layers of roofing can be installed before I have to remove the old roofing material?
You may install one layer of roofing material over the original roof before it would need to be stripped to apply another roof.

Where can I obtain the code books that are enforced in Highlands County?
All of the Standard Codes can be obtained through The International Code Council. The National electrical code and the N.F.P.A. codes can be obtained through The National Fire Protection Association. You also may find them in your local library, or at some of the larger book stores.