Responsibilities and Risks of Being an Owner/Builder

What is a Building Code?

Building codes set safety and structural standards. Updated every three years, they help ensure safe construction and energy efficiency.

Why do Building Codes Matter?

Building codes protect your property and community by ensuring:

• Safety: Prevents structural failures and hazards.
• Fire Prevention: Reduces fire risks.
• Energy Efficiency: Lowers costs and conserves resources.
• Property Value: Keeps your home safe and valuable.

Can I Pull My Own Permit as a Property Owner?

If you own property in Florida, understanding building codes is important for safety and legal compliance. This guide explains owner-builder permits and what work you can do without hiring a contractor.

What is an Owner-Builder Permit?

An owner-builder permit allows property owners to obtain a permit and complete construction work themselves instead of hiring a contractor.

Florida law (Statute 489) generally requires licensed contractors for construction work. However, an exception (Statute 489.103) allows owner-builders to apply for their own permits to either do the work themselves or supervise the work by others.

Who is not Allowed to get an Owner-Builder Permit?

If your commercial building or home is owned by one of the following, you must hire a licensed contractor. These groups cannot obtain permits directly. 

• Corporation
• LLC
• Partnership
• Trust

What Work can you do as an Owner-Builder?

Residential (Single-Family Homes or Duplexes only):

• New construction & additions
• Interior/exterior alterations
• Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work
• Accessory structures & pools

Commercial:

• Only for projects that cost less than $75,000

Owner-Builder Permit Rules & Regulations

• Personal Use Only – Deed must be in your legal name and for your full-time personal use and/or occupancy. Home must have a Homestead Exemption. See Osceola County Tax Collector for information.
• No Selling or Renting – You cannot sell, rent, or lease the property for at least one year after completing the project.
• Supervision Required – You must personally oversee all work.
• Hiring a Contractor/Handyman – If you hire someone to help with the work, make sure they have the right licenses and insurances. You should not hire anyone who doesn’t have a license. If you do, you might have to pay for things like taxes and other important costs.
• No Consultants or Construction Managers You must manage the project yourself.
• Building Inspections – You must ensure the project passes inspections and meets building codes.

Penalties for Violation

Failing to follow owner-builder rules may result in a fine from the state up to $5,000 and mandatory reporting to the State Contractor’s Board.