The mission of the Building Division is to protect the public's health, safety and welfare, as it relates to construction, use and occupancy of buildings and structures, by interpreting, administering, monitoring and enforcing codes and standards which govern construction industry activities.

For information pertaining to permits, building codes, inspections, or contractor licensing email Building Department

*Please contact Zoning for the following information: Questions regarding the kinds of activities allowed on particular lots; the amount of space a structure may occupy, the location of a building on the lot (setbacks), and all other Zoning related issues.

It is vital that the public verify licenses and hire licensed professionals.

ATTENTION CONTRACTORS:

As of July 1, 2025, changes to Florida law (section 489.117, F.S.) affect how local governments issue specialty contractor licenses.

Local governments may now only license specialty contractor types that substantially match the license categories recognized by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) or those that are specifically allowed by statute.

Specialty contractors are limited to specific areas of construction such as:

  • Structural aluminum or screen enclosures
  • Marine work (seawalls, docks, bulkheads, pile driving)
  • Structural masonry or precast concrete
  • Rooftop solar heating
  • Structural steel
  • Window, door, or garage door installation
  • Stucco and plaster work
  • Carpentry and irrigation

Locally authorized licenses that may continue include:

  • Fencing
  • Vinyl gutters, siding, soffit, fascia
  • Additionally, individuals performing work under the supervision of a licensed contractor (per F.S. 489.105) do not need a separate specialty license unless they perform work directly for the public.

IF YOUR LICENSE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED BY A LOCAL JURISDICTION

If your local specialty contractor license type has already been, or will be, eliminated effective July 1, 2025, and you would like to pursue licensure as a state certified contractor, options and department resources are available as provided below:

  • Individuals may apply to obtain a state certified contractor license needed to perform the scope of work authorized by your previously held local specialty license. Information regarding the state licensure process, including scope of licensure and examination exemption requirements, can be found by visiting the CILB’s homepage or contacting the department here.

Questions? Call Highlands County Development Services for more information at 863-402-6650.