Below you will find a list of the most frequently asked questions by individuals regarding requirements and procedures.

How can I get help using the EnerGov system?

Go to the EnerGov Instructional Videos page to view a set of six videos that offer step-by-step instructions for how to use components of the City’s EnerGov system that relate to permits and inspections. If you need additional assistance, please call the Building Division at 321-608-7900.

On April 16, necessary updates will be made to the City of Melbourne’s EnerGov system. EnerGov will not be available during this time. Service is expected to be restored by the end of the day. Once the update is complete, all current registered users will need to follow specific steps to re-establish their login access. 

• Instructions for Existing Users
• Instructions for New Users

Why does the city require building permits for various projects?

Building permits are required to ensure that the construction meets the requirements of all state, city and fire prevention codes. Inspections are completed on all permits issued to ensure the safety and welfare of the citizens of Melbourne.

Is a permit required?

Most people are aware that building permits are required for new commercial buildings, tenant build-outs, construction trailers, temporary power poles, new homes, mobile homes, room additions, and in-ground swimming pools. 

Unfortunately, some realize only after work is underway or finished that permits are needed for other projects, such as carports; garages; fences; sheds; re-roofing; window replacement; door replacement; garage-door replacement; above-ground swimming pools; A/C change-outs; electrical work; plumbing work; gas piping and connections; generators; fire-protection systems (alarms, sprinklers, stand-pipes); walk-in coolers; and low-voltage wiring. 

Projects started without a building permit can result in greatly increased costs, delays, and even removal of structures.  The structures may be placed in the wrong location or they may not comply with building codes. 

The Florida Building Code, Seventh Edition (2020), requires that a building permit be obtained prior to construction, alterations, repairs, and relocations.  A property owner or contractor who starts work without first obtaining a permit could be subject to a penalty of 100% of the usual permit fee.  Section 109 of the Florida Building Code sets fees, which are authorized by Florida State Statute 553.80. 

The permitting process allows a determination that improvements such as pools, screen rooms, sheds, garages, and carports comply with setbacks that specify where structures can be placed on a lot. 

A variance is required for any encroachment on the required setbacks. A variance can be requested through the Community Development Department.

Improvement plans must also avoid placing a structure in an easement, which is an area that has been legally reserved for a public use. However, a property owner can ask the City Council to approve abandonment of an easement. 

What type of work requires a permit?

Any new construction, addition or alteration of existing structures, fences, driveways, parking lots, roofing, swimming pools, solar pool heaters, structural changes, signage, commercial awnings, irrigation systems, tree removal, land disturbing activity, plumbing, electrical, gas or HVAC work requires a permit. Contact the Building Dept. at 321/ 608-7915 for any additional questions.

What licenses are required for those who apply for a permit in the City of Melbourne?

• State Certified Contractors: Copy of State Certification & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption.
• State Registered Contractors: Copy of State Registration, Brevard County Competency Card & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption.
• Subcontractors: Copy of county occupational license & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption.
• Specialty Contractors: Licensed by the County.

How long does it take for a permit to be approved?

If plans only require a single review:

• Residential Construction Permits typically average 5 to 7 working days for approval or response.
• Commercial Construction Permits typically average 14 to 21 working days for approval or response.
• Fire System Permits (Alarms, Sprinklers, etc.) typically average 7 to 10 working days for approval or response. 
• Certain permits may be issued immediately or within 3 days if plan review is required.

How do I apply for a permit?

A permit application must be submitted through our online permitting system, along with drawings when applicable, surveys for any new construction or additions to the property, proof of property ownership from the property owner (deed or tax statement), description of work being done, and estimated value of construction. 

Why do I need to submit surveys of my property?

Surveys are required for any new construction or additions to existing properties to verify that the proposed construction is wholly located on the owner’s property and that it meets all setback requirements for the zoning district.

Can I receive a permit as owner/builder?

Yes, if all of the following apply:

• If applicant is the owner.
• If ownership is by an individual.
• If property is not for sale or lease for a period of one year.
• (Commercial only) if construction value is less than $75,000.

Do my plans need to be signed and sealed?

Yes, if any of the following apply:

Residential:

• If proposed work is attached to main structure.
• If proposed work is an in ground swimming pool.
• If proposed work must meet wind load requirements, i.e. flag pole, satellite dish, all types of aluminum construction, and solar panel installation.

All proposed commercial work, with the following exceptions:

• Parking lots.
• Proposed work less than $2,500 in value, which does not affect structural or means of egress components.

How long does my permit last? 

Once a permit application is applied for online, the permit application is valid for 180 days or with current review activity. If a permit has been approved (Fee’s Due Status) or in an “In Review” status it will automatically be placed in the expired status if no activity is done in 180 days.

For permits that have been issued (status of the permit will say Issued) you have 180 days to achieve an approved (Passed) inspection or it will be automatically placed in the expired status due to inactivity.

What happens if my permit is put in an Expired Status?

A permit application or an issued permit will have another 180 days after being placed in expired status to achieve an approved inspection or approved plan review. A reinstatement request letter will need to be uploaded to the permit online under your “Attachment” tab. Failure to provide a reinstatement letter to the permit online will result in the permit being voided and a new permit will need to be applied for.

Please be sure to list the following on your extension request letter. 

1. The permit number
2. The address of the project
3. A request to have the permit reinstated
4. Explanation as to why the permit was inactive to allow it to be placed in an expired status.
5. An estimated completed date of the project or when you plan on having the final inspection performed.

Hardships and unique situations will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please be as detailed as possible in your reinstatement letters.