Development and Neighborhood Services

Building Division Frequently Asked Questions

General:

• What are the services/responsibilities of the Development and Neighborhood Services Department?
• What codes does Development and Neighborhood Services enforce?
• I want to erect signs at my business. What do I need to know?
• What are the City of Clearwater's roofing requirements?
• What is a red tag?
• What is a stop work order?
• Is it necessary to upgrade a commercial building to meet ADA/handicapped standards and Fire Code requirements?
• Where do I report an unsafe building?
• How should I choose a contractor?
• What are the most common code/ordinance violations and which departments are responsible for enforcement?

Questions about Permitting:

• When is a building permit NOT required
• Can I get forms and applications online?
• How can I get a building permit by FAX or mail?

General Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What are the services/responsibilities of the Development and Neighborhood Services Department?

A: The Development and Neighborhood Services Department is responsible for the following:

• Permitting and inspecting construction projects
• Collecting Business Tax Receipt fees
• Insuring that businesses meet local, state and federal rules
• Advising the public of construction and development requirements

Q: What codes does the City of Clearwater enforce?

A: Codes:

• 2004 Florida Building Code with 2005, 2006 and 2007 updates
• 2004 Florida Building Code-Mechanical with 2005, 2006 and 2007 updates
• 2004 Florida Building Code-Plumbing with 2005, 2006 and 2007 updates  
• 2004 Florida Building Code-Fuel Gas with 2005, 2006 and 2007 updates
• 2004 Florida Fire Prevention Code
• Standard for Unsafe Building Abatement Code, 1985 Edition
• NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, 2003 Edition
• NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, 2005 Edition
• NFPA 58 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, 2001 Edition
• Chapter 51, Flood Protection, City Code of Ordinances
• Chapter 53, Marine Improvements, City Code of Ordinances
• Standard Housing Code, 1991 Edition & Chapter 49, City Code of Ordinances
• 2001 Florida Building Code, Section 3107, Pinellas Gulf Beaches Coastal Construction Code
• NFPA291, 2002
• NFPA1142, 2001
• NFPA1, 2003

FEMA-Related Publications:

• FEMA - 13 Flood Emergency and Residential Repair Handbook
• FEMA - 15 Design Guidelines for Flood Damage Reduction
• FEMA - 54 Elevated Residential Structures
• FEMA - 55 Coastal Construction Manual
• FEMA - 85 Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Zones
• FEMA - 100 A Unified National Program for Flood-Plain Management
• FEMA - 102 Flood-Proofing Non-Residential Structures
• FEMA - 114 Design Manual for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures
• FEMA - 213 Answers to Questions About Substantially Damaged Buildings

If you would like to order any of the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) publications, please send your request in writing to:

Federal Emergency Management Agency
ATTN:  Publications
P O Box 70274
Washington DC  20023

Or call 1-(800)-480-2520

Other References:

• Hurricane Resistant Construction - Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI)
• Standard for Hurricane Resistant Residential Construction Regions SSTD 10-99 - SBCCI
• http://infosolutions.com/icce/gateway.dll?f=templates&fn=default.htm&vid=icc:florida_accessibility

Q: I want to erect signs at my business. What do I need to know?

A: The City has a Sign Code, which regulates the number, type, size, height and location of signs, most of which require sign permits. Before placing any signage, please call the Zoning Division of the Development and Neighborhood Services Department at 727-562-4567, or 727-562-4726. They will be able to tell you what signage your business is allowed and what the permit requirements are.

For a GRAND OPENING, you are allowed the following signage without a sign permit:

• One temporary grand opening sign shall be permitted for thirty (30) days after the issuance of a Business Tax Receipt for any new business, new owner of an existing business, or business name change. Such sign shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet in total sign face area or such sign may be a temporary covering, such as a toaster cover, sign boot, or sign sock, which covers an existing permitted attached or freestanding sign. The one grand opening sign must be located within five feet of all property lines of a parcel proposed for development

PERMANENT SIGNAGE is regulated by the Sign Regulations according to the Zoning District in which the business is located. Again, please call Zoning at 727-562-4567 or 727-562-4726 to get specific information regarding signage at your location.

Q: What are the City of Clearwater's roofing requirements?

A: Permits are required for all jobs of $500.00 or more, and a Notice of Commencement is required for all jobs with a value of $2,500.00 or more. Both the Notice of Commencement and the Permit must be posted at the job before any inspections will be completed. Failure to have these documents posted will result in a $30.00 fee and no inspection will be granted until both documents are posted and payment of the fee has been received by the Development and Neighborhood Services Department.

The minimum inspections required for roofing permits are as follows:

Final (901) roof completed
Partial (917) in progress

IMPORTANT: If tear off and reroof occurs during weekends or holidays, in-progress pictures must be taken and made available for inspectors' review at the final inspection.

NOTE: The City of Clearwater looks for some type of provisions of anchoring all roof top equipment at time of reroofing.

THE CITY OF CLEARWATER REQUIRES THE MANUFACTURER'S SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF THE ROOFING TO BE ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION.

FEES

• Correction Notice: $32.00
• 2nd Correction Notice for same offense on the same job: $80.00
• Working without a Permit:
  • 1st offense: 3 x normal Permit fee
  • 2nd offense: 10 x normal Permit fee
  • 3rd offense: 10 x Permit fee and notification of PCCLB and DPR
• Failure to call for PARTIAL ROOF Inspections: $30.00
• Job not ready for inspection: $30.00 (except for weather)

To cancel an inspection, call the 24 hour computer line at (727) 462-562-4580 to cancel your original request. This call must be placed before 12:00 midnight.

Q: What is a red tag?

A: A red tag is a fine that is issued if the inspector is not able to access the premises for an inspection and/or if the work is done improperly. The following are some the areas most often "red tagged":

SHINGLES

1. Short nailed (not enough nails per shingle) six nails required by SBC.
2. Drip edge on eaves installed over felt without cementing.
3. Rakes not cemented.
4. 1 ply # 1 5 felt on roof pitches up to 4:1 2. (2 ply with a 1 9' lap required.)
5. Closed valleys not cemented close enough to cutline. (2" from cutline is recommended.)
6. Felt, starter and first row of shingles not spot cemented down at flat deck tie-ins.
7. Failure to spot cement under each tab on mansard roofs.

1. Improper nailing pattern on base sheet.
2. Inadequate mopping of #90 mineral surface.
3. Not backnailing #90 on roof slopes of 2 1/2:12 and up.
4. Weep holes on eaves not extending through cement into the tile cavity for proper drainage.
5. Improper mortar mix (must be Type M). Inadequate amount of mortar and improper placement of mortar (must follow code or manufacturer's specs).
6. Base ply not installed with a weave pattern at valleys.

1. Improper nailing of felt underlayment.
2. Insufficient coverage of mopped on reflective coatings.
3. Improper type asphalt on built-up roofs for the slope of roof: Example; for roof slopes zero to, and including, 1/2:12, dead level asphalt (ASTM D-312, Type 1).
4. Modified not properly torched in place.

Q: What is a stop work order?

A: This is a notice to stop work because either a permit hasn't been obtained, the work being done exceeds the job for which the permit was issued, or the work is being done improperly. The charge ranges from three to ten times the permit fee.

Q: Is it necessary to upgrade a commercial building to meet ADA/handicapped standards and Fire Code requirements?

A: In most cases, yes. Please contact us at (727) 562-4567 for information.

Q: Where do I report an unsafe building?

A: Please call us at (727) 562-4567 if you think a building is in an unsafe condition.

Q: How should I choose a contractor?

A: Here are some suggestions:

CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR

• Ask people you know for names of contractors they have used.
• Call the following for information on the type of contractor you need.
  • Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board at (727) 536-4720
  • Office of Consumer Affairs at (727) 530-6200
  • Better Business Bureau at (727) 535-5522
  • Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce at (727) 461-0011
• Once you have a list of contractors, ask for references.
• Make sure you are comfortable with the contractor and that good lines of communication exist.
• Check the contractor license, by calling the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board (PCCLB) at (727) 536-4720. They can tell you what type of license the person has, and if any complaints are filed on the contractor.
• Check the contractor's insurance coverage. The contractor should carry comprehensive policies to protect his business and your home, including public liability, property damage protection, and workers' compensation. May want an original from the insurance company, listing your name.
• Ask for written quotes with all details from more than one contractor. It is advisable to get, at least three contractors to provide bids. Remember - the lowest price is not always the best one. It could mean a misunderstanding of the project.

THE CONTRACT

Regardless of the relationship you develop with your contractor, the details and agreements of the job should be in writing. Here are some tips:

• Include the building plans and/or work specifications in the contract.
• Specify the start and finish dates in the contract to protect your interests. You need to realize that bad weather, unavailable materials or other problems may change these dates.
• Include pay schedules for the work and itemized prices for the work.
• You may want to have a lawyer review all contracts and related documents before you sign.
• Don't make a large first payment. You may want to consider not paying for the project in full until you have a completed project and an approved final inspection.
• Have any warranties or guarantees of the work clearly stated in writing and signed by the contractor and or manufacturer. They should include all terms and conditions.
• Make sure you and the contractor both sign the agreement, with each of you keeping original copies.
• ASK THE CONTRACTOR FOR THE PERMIT BEFORE WORK BEGINS.
• ASK ABOUT THE NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT

SOURCES FOR RETROFITTING INFORMATION

• Local architects and engineers
• Protecting Manufactured Homes from High Winds - FEMA Doc. TR-75
• Flood Emergency and Residential Repair Handbook - FEMA Doc. FIA-13
• Retrofitting Flood-prone Residential Structures - FEMA-114
• Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas - FEMA-85
• Design Guidelines for Flood Damage Reduction - FEMA-15
• Elevated Residential Structures - FEMA-54
• Coastal Construction Manual - FEMA-55
• Repairing Your Flooded Home - FEMA-234
• Hurricane Resistant Construction - Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI)
• Standard for Hurricane Resistant Residential Construction SSTD 10-93 - SBCCI
• Construction Standard for Residential Structures RCS-94. The Contractors and Builders Association of Pinellas County, Inc.

NOTE: Some of these publications are available at the Clearwater Public Library.

All FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) documents are available from:

FEMA Publications
P.O. Box 2012
Jessup, MD 20794-2012
or call (800) 480-2520

Q: What are the most common code/ordinance violations and which departments are responsible for enforcement?

A:

1. Automobile Issues: abandoned; commercial and/or recreational vehicles, in residential neighborhoods (Including semi-trucks or trailers); for sale in right-of-way handled by Community Response Team; Illegal parking: in right-of-way, handicap spaces, fire lanes-handled by Police Department, Fire Department, Community Response Team.
2. Housing Issues: construction without a permit; fence violations; standard housing violations; unsafe structures - handled by Planning and Development and Neighborhood Services; overgrown lots - handled by Community Response Team, LP gas in residences - handled by Fire Department.
3. Debris Issues: debris around residential or commercial property; in streets, alleys, or waterways; lot clearing (overgrown grass) - handled by Community Response Team, Illegal dumping or littering-handled by Community Response Team and Police Department; ditches blocked or overgrown - handled by PW-Environmental, dumpster violations-handled by Solid Waste.
4. Occupational Licensing Issues: solicitors; operating business out of residence; telemarketing operations requirements; vendors-handled by Community Response Team; conditional use permit requirements-handled by Planning and Development and Neighborhood Services and Community Response Team.
5. Business Issues: operating without a license (should be posted In conspicuous place) - handled by Community Response Team, inoperative exit and/or emergency lighting; exits locked or blocked; improper storage; stock too close to ceiling; smoke detectors-handled by Fire Department.
6. Noise Violations: loud music; business noise; muffler violations, etc. (Commercial complaints handled by Community Response Team, residential and in streets handled by Police Department.)
7. Signage Issues: on rights-of-way; residential and commercial address numbering; etc. handled by Community Response Team.
8. Park Problems/Issues: enforcement of closing time; alcohol violations; animal violations-handled by Police Department.
9. Graffiti and Vandalism Enforcement: handled by Community Response Team and Police Department.

Questions about Permitting:

Q. When is a building permit NOT required?

A. A building permit is not required in the following cases (for Single Family Residences ONLY):

• When the job value is less than $500.00 and does not involve anything structural
• Siding, soffit and fascia repair
• Painting, carpeting, vinyl flooring
• Kitchen cabinets

ALL WORK is to be done by a licensed contractor (licensed in the appropriate field). ALL commercial work requires a building permit.

Q: Can I get forms and applications online?

A: Yes. They are available here in Adobe Acrobat/PDF format.

Q: How can I get a building permit by fax or mail?

A: Contractors may request the following permits by fax or mail:

BUILDING
New siding, new soffit and fascia, reroofs and roof repairs, electric shutters, and any other work that does not require plans.

ELECTRIC
All electric work under 600 amps, including security alarms, where plans are not required.

PLUMBING
Replacement of sewer and water lines, water heaters, solar water heaters, sewer cap-offs, and lawn sprinklers. (If adding a new or upgrading an existing water meter, there are impact fees to be paid in addition to the permit fees.) Any other work where plans are not required.

MECHANICAL
Any type of heating, air conditioning and ventilation work except new installations of equipment onto the roof of a structure and walk-in coolers. Any other work where plans are not required.

GAS
Any type of L.P. or natural gas work.

PROCEDURE BY FAX

1. Fax a completed permit application and Charge Authorization Form to Development & Neighborhood Services (Fax 727-562-4576). The license holder or their approved authorized agent on file with the City of Clearwater, must sign the application. If you are not required to have a PCCLB card, then you must provide proof of insurance.



2. Within 24 hours we will enter the application information into our computer and FAX you a permit with the receipt. You may start working once you receive the faxed copy of the permit.

PROCEDURE BY MAIL

1. Submit a completed permit application to Development & Neighborhood Services, City of Clearwater, P.O. Box 4748, Clearwater, FL 33756-5520-4748. The license holder, or their approved authorized agent on file with the City, must sign the application. If you are not required to have a PCCLB card, then you must provide proof of workers’ compensation.



2. A check, payable to the City of Clearwater or a Charge Authorization Form for the fee must accompany the application. You may obtain a copy of the fee schedule from this office or on the internet at myclearwater.com.



3. A stamped, self-addressed, legal size envelope or larger, to return the permit documents, must accompany the application.



4. Work may start when you receive the permit. Please post the permit at the job site. If not, the inspector may issue a correction notice. Additionally, jobs more than $2,500.00 in value ($5,000.00 for a direct contract to repair or replace an existing heating or air conditioning system) shall submit a recorded Notice of Commencement from the Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court along with the permit application.



5. Development & Neighborhood Services will have the permits in the mail 24 hours after receipt. Direct your questions or suggestions to Development & Neighborhood Services at 727-562-4567.

PERMITS NOT REQUIRED

1. Replacing or repairing siding, including stucco on a detached one or two family dwelling, or maximum floor area of 2,000 square feet.



2. Replacing of soffit and fascia material on a detached one or two family dwelling.



3. Permits are generally not required for carpeting, painting, wallpapering, paneling over existing walls, and tile nor where the valuation of labor, materials, and all other items does not exceed $500.00 and the work or operation is of casual, minor, inconsequential nature, and does not violate any city codes or ordinances, or is exempt pursuant to Chapter 75-489, Laws of Florida ( Special Acts), Section 25.