Bradenton, FL Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 18-31 adopts the most current version of the Florida Building Code, including appendices A through J, for the construction, alteration, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal, maintenance and demolition of buildings or structures, including permits and penalties. A current copy stays on file in the city planning and community development department for public use, inspection and examination. When the Florida Legislature adopts a new code, it automatically replaces the previous one without further action by the city council. The permit requirements come through that adopted code as it reads at the time.

Section 18-35 adds local amendments to Section 104.5. A permit is a license to proceed with the work and not authority to violate, cancel, alter or set aside any provision of the technical codes, and issuing one does not stop the building official from later requiring correction of errors in plans, construction or violations. Every permit becomes invalid unless the city inspects the authorized work within six months after issuance, or if the building official determines through reasonable evidence that the work has been suspended or abandoned for 90 consecutive days while the permit is valid. A one-time 180-day extension is authorized only when the building official determines through reasonable evidence that the reason for expiration was beyond the control of the applicant or property owner.

If work has commenced and the permit is revoked, becomes null and void or expires, a new permit covering the proposed construction must be obtained before proceeding. If no new permit is obtained within 30 days from the date the initial permit became null and void, the building official can require any work commenced or completed to be removed from the site. Alternately, a new permit can be issued on application if the work in place meets all regulations in effect when the initial permit became void and any that took effect since.

Other sections tie to permits. Section 18-84 makes a building permit a prerequisite to temporary electrical service for construction or remodeling power, and a temporary service permit is also required. Section 18-33 bars a certificate of occupancy unless the building has a number visible from the street.