By Maria Rossiter · NextPermit.org · Owner-Builder · Florida Permits
⚡ Update: Florida HB 803 — Effective July 1, 2026
Starting July 1, 2026, Florida’s HB 803 law may exempt certain small residential projects under $7,500 from permit requirements entirely — which means some homeowners won’t need to pull a permit at all, owner-builder or not. This applies only to non-structural, non-electrical, non-plumbing work. For projects that still require a permit, owner-builder rules remain the same. Always verify with your local building department first.
Short answer: yes, in many cases — but with important limitations. Florida law allows homeowners to act as their own contractor and pull permits for work on their primary residence. However, the rules are specific, vary by project type, and carry real personal liability.
What Florida Law Says
Florida Statute 489.103(7) allows homeowners to apply for and obtain building permits for their own primary residence without a licensed contractor, as long as they meet specific conditions. You must own the property, it must be your primary residence, and you must personally supervise the work. You cannot use the owner-builder exemption to build homes for sale.
What You Can and Cannot Do
Generally allowed as owner-builder
- Roofing (with restrictions in some counties)
- Additions and renovations to your primary home
- Fences, decks, and patios
- Window and door replacements
- Minor electrical and plumbing (check local rules)
Generally NOT allowed as owner-builder
- Work on properties you don’t own or don’t live in
- Building homes for sale or rent
- Commercial properties
- Work requiring a licensed trade in your specific county (varies)
The Owner-Builder Disclosure Form
When you pull a permit as an owner-builder in Florida, you must sign a disclosure statement acknowledging that you understand you are taking on full responsibility for the work — including compliance with codes, safety, and any liability if something goes wrong. This is not optional. Most Florida counties require it as part of the permit application.
The Real Risk: Insurance and Resale
Pulling your own permit is legal. But it comes with risk. If work is done incorrectly and causes damage or injury, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover it — because the work wasn’t performed by a licensed contractor. Additionally, when you sell your home, buyers and their lenders will see that permits were pulled under an owner-builder exemption, which can raise questions about work quality.
What to Do Before You Decide
Before pulling your own permit, call your local building department and confirm:
- Whether owner-builder is allowed for your specific project type
- What documentation you’ll need to submit
- Whether your county has any additional restrictions
- What inspections will be required and when
⚠️ Permitting rules vary across Florida’s 389+ jurisdictions and change regularly. This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always verify current requirements with your local building department before starting any project.
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