Florida, Union County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Union County Building & Safety Division

The Union County Building Department is the Authority Having Jurisdiction for building permits and safety regulations within the county. They are located at 15 Northeast 1st Street, Lake Butler, FL 32054, and can be reached by phone at (386) 496-2676 or by email at [email protected]. Union County has partnered with Cloudpermit, a cloud-based software system, to manage the entire building permit process online. This allows for online applications, status checks, inspection scheduling, and electronic payments.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

For properties located in the unincorporated areas of Union County, a Letter of Compliance/Flood Data from the Union County Building Department is required. This typically involves a fee.

Specific Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

Demolition permits are required under the Florida Building Code for the demolition or removal of structures prior to work commencing. In Union County, as with most Florida jurisdictions, a demolition permit is required for any partial or complete teardown of a structure. This includes interior demolition. To obtain a demolition permit, you will generally need to submit a demolition permit application, provide proof of utility disconnections, and potentially an asbestos inspection and abatement report if required. A Notice of Demolition must also be submitted to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) at least 10 working days before demolition.

Permit Requirements and Definitions for Altering or Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas generally requires a building permit. This is because such projects involve changing the occupancy of the space and often include structural, electrical, and plumbing modifications. The Florida Building Code mandates permits for "constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, or changing the occupancy" of a structure, as well as for "installing any electrical or plumbing system."

Garages: Converting a garage into a living space almost certainly requires a building permit. This process ensures the converted space meets safety standards, including minimum ceiling heights, proper emergency exits, adequate insulation, and professionally installed electrical and HVAC systems.
Attics: Converting an unfinished attic into a habitable space typically requires a permit. This is due to the need to meet building codes for safety and occupancy, which may include minimum ceiling height and room dimensions, a full-size staircase for access, and an emergency exit. New electrical wiring or HVAC installations in attics will also necessitate permits.
Unfinished Basements: While specific information for unfinished basements in Union County was not detailed in the search results, the general principle for converting non-living spaces into habitable areas applies. Permits are typically required for such conversions to ensure compliance with building codes related to safety, egress, ventilation, and structural integrity.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Florida, including Union County.

Florida Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Florida Building Codes for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Florida has adopted a statewide building code that governs all new construction and substantial renovations, including residential remodels. This code aims to ensure the safety, structural integrity, and general welfare of buildings and their occupants.

1. Adopted State Statutes and Codes

Florida has adopted the Florida Building Code (FBC), which is updated every three years to align with the latest International Code Council (ICC) standards. The current edition is the 2023 Florida Building Code, which is based on the 2021 International Codes. Specifically for residential renovations, the relevant parts of the FBC include:

Florida Building Code, Residential (FBC-R): This volume addresses one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories. It incorporates many provisions from the International Residential Code (IRC).
Florida Building Code, Existing Building (FBC-EB): This code is crucial for remodels and renovations as it provides minimum requirements for existing structures. It is based on the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) and addresses repairs, alterations, additions, and changes of occupancy.
Florida Building Code, Building (FBC-B): This volume applies to all other types of buildings and is based on the International Building Code (IBC).

The FBC-EB is particularly important for understanding demolition guidelines and distinguishing between cosmetic and structural changes. It outlines when permits are required and the standards that must be met during renovation projects.

2. Primary State Board or Agencies

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is the primary state agency responsible for the Florida Building Code. The Florida Building Commission, housed within the DEO, is the entity that adopts and amends the code. Local city and county building departments are responsible for the enforcement of the FBC within their jurisdictions.

3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

The Florida Building Code generally classifies remodels based on their impact on the building's structure and systems.

Cosmetic Remodels: These typically involve minor aesthetic changes that do not affect the structural integrity, fire safety, or occupancy of the building. Examples include painting, replacing flooring, or updating fixtures. These often do not require a permit unless they involve work on electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems that are regulated by the code.
Structural Alterations: These are changes that affect the building's structure, such as removing or altering load-bearing walls, modifying roof structures, or converting spaces like attics or basements into habitable areas. These types of renovations almost always require a building permit and must comply with the FBC, including specific provisions in the FBC-EB.

Demolition Guidelines: Demolition work is also regulated by the FBC, particularly within the FBC-EB. Permits are typically required for demolition, and specific procedures must be followed to ensure safety, prevent environmental hazards, and manage debris. The code outlines requirements for disconnecting utilities, protecting adjacent structures, and proper disposal of materials.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Union County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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