Fort Myers, FL Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)
Key Facts
- No-start lapse
- 180 days after issuance, no work
- Inactivity lapse
- 180 days after last passing inspection
- Missed-deadline result
- Stop-work order, utility disconnection possible
- Reinstatement
- Written request, possible on-site inspection
- Jurisdiction
- City of Fort Myers, Lee County
Summary
In Fort Myers, Lee County, a building permit expires 180 days after issuance if work hasn't started, or 180 days after the last passing inspection, triggering stop-work orders and utility disconnection if not renewed.
(a)A building permit shall expire:(1)180 days after that date of issuance if work has not commenced; or(2)180 days after the last recorded passing inspection activity; or(3)As otherwise defined by the adopted building code.(b)Failure to renew or close a permit prior to the expiration date shall constitute a violation of this ordinance and may result in the following:(1)A stop work order, where applicable...(3)Disconnection of utilities.(4)Initiation to code enforcement for further action.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 60).
Full Breakdown
Fort Myers ties a building permit's validity directly to inspection activity. Under the Land Development Code, a permit expires 180 days after issuance if work has not commenced, or 180 days after the last recorded passing inspection: whichever milestone governs, or as otherwise set by the adopted building code. Missing that window is a code violation: the building official can issue a stop-work order, withhold future permit approvals for the property, disconnect utilities, and refer the matter to code enforcement. Reinstating an expired permit requires a written request with the permit number, a status of work completed, and an explanation of the delay, and the building official may order an on-site inspection to verify completed work before reactivating it.
Violations & Fines
Missing the inspection-driven 180-day window can bring a stop-work order, withheld future permit approvals, utility disconnection, and referral to code enforcement until the expired permit is resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a Fort Myers building permit valid without a passing inspection?
What happens if my Fort Myers building permit expires?
Can an expired Fort Myers permit be reinstated?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Myers
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Fort Myers to another location·View the Florida building safety overview
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