Palm Beach County, FL Permit Requirements: Renovation Permits (2026)

Palm Beach County requires building permits for most renovation work in unincorporated areas. The Florida Building Code, as adopted locally, requires permits for structural modifications, electrical work, plumbing work, mechanical/HVAC work, roofing, window and door replacement (particularly important for hurricane impact ratings), and most interior remodeling that affects building systems. Permit-exempt work includes painting, wallpapering, flooring replacement (not structural), and minor cosmetic repairs. Palm Beach County has additional requirements driven by its hurricane zone location: window and door replacements must meet impact resistance standards or have approved shutters; roofing materials must be rated for the applicable wind zone; and structural modifications must be engineered for wind loads. Florida law requires that most construction work be performed by licensed contractors. The PZB Department processes permit applications, and plans may need to be prepared by a licensed Florida architect or engineer depending on the project scope. Inspections are required at multiple stages.