CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Notice of Commencement Submittals

October 8, 2021

We have seen an increase of incorrect Notice of Commencements submitted.   It has typically been for the same issues and is causing frustrations for applicants.   

• DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY - description sufficient for identification of the real property to be improved.   The description should include the legal description of the property and also include the street address and tax folio number.  

   

• DESCRIPTION OF IMPROVEMENT - this should be a brief description of your project - single family residence, swimming pool, driveway, HVAC, screen enclosure,   interior alterations, etc. 

   

• CONTRACTOR NAME - The name and address of the contractor - this is to match the application provided by the license holder.

   

• NOTARIZATION - the signed name must be the name on the Notice of Commencement.   The notary must print the name of the person's signature (s) they are notarizing, identify if they are personally known or produce identification, sign their name and place their seal on the document.  

   

• NOT LEGIBLE - we are increasingly receiving documents that are not legible.   We receive many blurry and / or dark copies.   Please be sure your scanned copy is legible or it will not be accepted.   

   

The document submitted to the Building Division must match the document that has been recorded.  

Any changes to the document must be re-recorded.    Changes to the recorded copy without being re-recorded are not lega/acceptable.

References:   

Florida Statute 713.13 Notice of Commencement http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0713/Sections/0713.13.html

Florida Statute 117 Notaries Public http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0100-0199/0117/0117.html

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Swimming Pool Permit Application Submittal Changes

September 17, 2021

ATTENTION POOL CONTRACTORS:

Due to changes to the 2020 Florida Building and Energy Conservation Codes and related referenced standards (e.g. ANSI / APSP - American National Standards Institute / Association of Pool and Spa Professionals), the City has updated its Simplified Total Dynamic Head (TDH) worksheet and Energy Efficiency worksheet for pool equipment.  A single form that can be used for both has been developed.   

Take note:  This is a required form to be completed for each pool permit.  The form must be completed by the pool contractor or Florida licensed engineer or architect and includes a signature block and owner information block for the location of the pool - the entire worksheet and both of these sections need to be completed in order for the form to be accepted.  Please begin using this form immediately. 

Please also check the City's website here:    https://www.palmcoastgov.com/government/building/contractordocumentdetails/100   for other changes to pool submittal requirements

City of Palm Coast

Building Division

386-986-3780

palmcoastgov.com

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

Residential HVAC Change-Outs

(Like for like)

September 9, 2021

Effective Immediately

AHRI (Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute) will no longer be a required submittal for residential HVAC Change-Out permit applications. 

The AHRI must be at the job site for the inspector upon inspection. 

The job description when submitting the permit application should read "HVAC   - like for like tonnage"   (Do not include the Seer and Tonnage or Brand of unit).

Mini-Splits will continue to require the submittal of Energy Calculations with the permit application for plan review.

Permits that are currently in the plan review HOLD status will need to be resolved before the permit can be issued. 

CONTRACTOR NEWSFLASH

Engineer and Architect Prepared Plans

September 3, 2021

We have been receiving more and more inquiries on a regular basis regarding plans and seals  prepared by an engineer and architect.  

One of the common questions is:  

• Are engineer and architect plans required to be prepared for a specific project and / or location?

The answer:

• is YES.  

  The Florida Administrative Rules attached clearly outline the requirements in all three. 

Exceptions:

• State approved manufactured / prototype buildings where the plans are approved by a State agency for use anywhere in the State of Florida and are photocopies. 

• Manufactured products including design and installation instructions under the Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance programs which are also photocopies

• Other manufacturer's specifications, installation instructions and similar which may be general engineering design and not designed for a specific location.

• Other supporting plan sheets prepared by contractors and similar that are not required to be signed and sealed by a Florida licensed engineer or architect.

• City approved master pool plans where the engineer or architect have authorized use for multiple properties over time by the contractor. 

Specific project location means:  At the very minimum the street address and Palm Coast.  A zip code is helpful, but not required. Although information in the attachments also refer to lot and block and legal description, our default position is to require the street address. Engineer and architect prepared plans that do not include project location will be rejected. 

Please be cognizant of your plan sheets and verify this information is on your plans prior to submittal for a permit to avoid delays.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Unable to Obtain a Final Inspection

08-31-21

There have been questions raised how to handle a final inspection when the property owner will not make the inspection area available for inspection. 

It is strongly encouraged to schedule the inspection directly following the completion of the work, it is our experience that the more time lapses, the more difficult it is for a contractor to obtain the final inspection when a homeowner needs to be home.

The Building Department cannot release a contractor's responsibility from a permit where the work has been completed.

The Building Department will pursue the property owner through the Code Enforcement Board proving a minimum of the following items have been done and provided to the Building Department

1. Inspection has been requested.

2. Letters / notice requesting inspection has been sent to property owner via certified mail - return receipt requested and copies (including certified mail receipt) have been provided to the Building Department.

3. Letter / notice posted on property (picture for proof)

4. Phone log of attempted calls to property owner.

These steps must be throughout the 6 months of the active permit PRIOR to the expiration.  These actions are to protect YOU the contractor from action with the Department of Business and Professional Regulations / Flagler County Contractor Licensing Review Board. 

The evidence you supply must be enough to convince the Department of Business and Professional Regulations you have done everything possible to gain compliance.   

If the permit expires, a new permit will be required if the above steps have not been taken.   These steps must be taken during the course of an ACTIVE permit.   Phone logs should continue throughout the 6 months.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Submittal of Documents

August 26, 2021

Phishing scams are the most common delivery systems for ransomware to take access of your computer/ network.   Government agencies and medical facilities are often targeted due the need for immediate access to files to continue with daily operations.   

The Building Department receives upwards of 100 emails a day - many of these are scam emails that appear to be business related. 

In an effort to reduce the City's vulnerability to a Cyberattack/Ransomware to our network, and to ensure permit documents associated with a permit are quickly attended to, you will need to  upload through the online permit portal.  This includes, but is not limited to:

• Notice of Commencement

• Roof Nailing Affidavits

• Envelope Leakage Test

• Blower Door Test

• Termite Certificates

• Foundation surveys

• Final surveys

If you have outside agencies sending information on your behalf, they can upload to the portal through the guest access using the permit # or the address.   They do not require your log-in information. 

Please forward this information to those in your organization who may be affected by this change.  

Permitting documents submitted via email will not be accepted.   

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Park and Fire Impact Fee Increase  

August 23, 2021

The Fire and Parks Impact Fees will increase for new residential and commercial construction as described below. 

Effective for permits applied for on or after October 20, 2021

Permit applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m.  October 19, 2021

Fire Impact Fee

• Residential -$388.65 per dwelling unit

• Non-residential- $.62 per square foot

Parks Impact Fee

• Residential  - $1,455.13  per dwelling unit

CONTRACTOR NEWSFLASH

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Storm Preparedness

August 10, 2021

As of this morning, Flagler County /Palm Coast has been placed in the "cone" of what is predicted to become a tropical storm.  

As we enter into the active Hurricane Season, when severe weather hits, will your job site be ready?

Buildings under construction are at high risk of catastrophic damage during severe weather / hurricane.  Materials and debris can become projectiles, and expensive equipment may be lost or damaged. 

Don't wait for last minute to protect your project from an approaching hurricane or severe weather. You need to be prepared!   

Here are some tips for securing your construction sites:

Secure Structures and Equipment

Once the National Weather Service issues a Hurricane Watch (or possible severe weather) , it's time to prepare your job site for the storm ahead. 

• Use rope, sand bags, ground anchors and other items to weigh down materials that could easily fly away. 
• Cover materials with plastic sheeting, netting or garbage bags to prevent water damage.
• Stack loose materials together and secure them with rope or duct tape to keep them from dispersing.
• Complete work on partially completed structures to minimize damage, if time allows.

Remove Materials and Equipment When Possible

If you're able to remove loose materials or expensive equipment, do so immediately after a severe warning has been issued. 

• Have your construction dumpster picked up or cover the container with a tarp.
• Remove or tie down portable bathrooms.
• Remove hazardous chemicals to prevent them from being released into the environment.
• Remove materials, tools or equipment that can be damaged by rising water.
• Remove or move heavy equipment and machinery to a garage if available.
• Tear down and store light-weight fence screens and job site signage.
• Move any portable electronics, job site plans and other important documents from the construction trailer to a safe location offsite.
• Turn off power to the site and make sure fuel is available for power generators.

Safeguard the Building Structure

Now that you've secured or removed materials and equipment, it's time to defend the structure. Whether you're working on a renovation or you're constructing a new building, water can significantly damage the interior.

• Board up door and window openings.
• Tarp or board up any other large openings.
• Place sandbags around the perimeter of the structure as reinforcement.  

In addition, please make sure all swales are free flowing and are not obstructed in any way and check all appropriate erosion/sediment control measures as needed. 

Thank you in advance for being a good neighbor in your community. 

Reduction in Permitting Fees / Implementation of New Fee Schedule

July 22, 2021

Please be advised, permitting fees will resume August 1st, 2021. 

This will affect permits applied for on or after August 1, 2021.

As a result of a fee rate study, over the past 6 months, a new schedule of fees has been adopted by City Council July 20th and will take affect August 2nd.  

The new schedules are attached, however, a condensed version will be posted on the website soon.   

Scheduling Roofing Inspections

July 22, 2021

In addition to requesting the AM/ PM Roof In-Progress / Dry-In Inspection online,  please contact the inspector when you receive the email notification with the inspector and phone # to coordinate a two hour time frame.  

The purpose of the in-progress / dry-in inspection is primarily so inspectors can check underlayment installation, to verify roof deck condition and spot check roof sheathing re-nailing but to also check materials in use match what is shown on roofing worksheets.  The in-progress / dry-in inspection must be scheduled at a point where installation of roofing underlayment is at least 50% to 100% complete and the roof covering installation is not more than 25% complete.  All drip edge flashings complete.  There is some flexibility to these parameters and inspectors will work to coordinate inspection times throughout the day to keep re-roofing projects moving. 

Please contact Robert Martin, Palm Coast Chief Building Inspector at 386-559-0729 with questions or if more information is needed.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Florida Product Approval

July 7, 2021

To avoid disapproval of submittals that require a Florida Product Approval Number, please be sure to provide the entire number to include the specific product to be used.   

Example #1    Mullions Window - 18504 R5  

Form should be completed as  

• 18504.1
• 18504.2
• 18504.3
• 18504.4
• 18504.5   ETC.

Example #2    MI Windows and Doors 15332 R6

Form should be completed as

• 15332.1
• 15332.2
• 15332.3
• 15332.4
• 15332.5   ETC.

If you have any questions, please contact our plan review division at 386-986-3782.

As mentioned in the previous notification, city offices and services will be closed 

July 2nd and July 5th 

We encourage you to not schedule any land clearing work during this time as the city will not have the staff to make repairs if damage occurs to existing water and sewer utilities.

If work done during these days,  the contractors will be subject to time and materials charges for any damage occurred.

Aside from the holiday closure,  landlcearing in the right of way preferably should be done between 7:00am and 4:00pm when City repair crews are present to make repairs when necessary.  Cost incurred for City staff to make repairs  after hours will  be charged  to the builder.

We hope you enjoy the holiday weekend. 

Holiday Closure 

June 30, 2021 

City offices will be closed in honor of Independence Day Friday, July 2nd and Monday July 5th.  

Building permitting and inspections services will not be performed on those days.   

We hope you enjoy the holiday weekend.  

Credit Card Convenience Fee

June 23, 2021

Effective August 1, 2021

Please be reminded- an additional 2.75% convenience fee (of the total payment) will be incurred for ALL payments made online.  This fee will be will be added to the amount of your transaction and is in addition to any fees that may be charged by your financial institution

This will affect payments made by credit card and e-checks.

Unable to Obtain a Final Inspection

6-22-21

There have been questions raised how to handle a final inspection when the property owner will not make the inspection area available for inspection. 

It is strongly encouraged to schedule the inspection directly following the completion of the work, it is our experience that the more time lapses, the more difficult it is for a contractor to obtain the final inspection when a homeowner needs to be home.

The Building Department cannot release a contractor's responsibility from a permit where the work has been begun / completed.

The Building Department will pursue the property owner through the Code Enforcement Board proving a minimum of the following items have been done and provided to the Building Department (the more you provide for proof of due dilligence, the better the case will be to pursue a property owner).  

1. Inspection has been requested.

2. Letters / notice requesting inspection has been sent to property owner via certified mail - return receipt requested and copies (including certified mail receipt) have been provided to the Building Department.

3. Letter / notice posted on property (picture for proof)

4. Phone log of attempted calls to property owner.

These steps must be throughout the 6 months of the ACTIVE  permit PRIOR to the expiration.  These actions are to protect YOU the contractor from action with the Department of Business and Professional Regulations / Flagler County Contractor Licensing Review Board.  Without the above information, we do not have proof to defend you did your due diligence in gaining compliance. 

The evidence you supply must be enough to convince the Department of Business and Professional Regulations you have done everything possible to gain compliance.   

If the permit expires, a new permit will be required if the above steps have not been taken.   These steps must be taken during the course of an ACTIVE permit.   Phone logs should continue throughout the 6 months.

Roofing Inspections AM / PM

To assist with the coordination of the Roof In-Progress/Dry-In inspection, please choose the AM or PM option to allow the inspector to make every accommodation to be at the job site during the correct time frame. 

The purpose of the in-progress / dry-in inspection is primarily so inspectors can check underlayment installation, to verify roof deck condition and spot check roof sheathing re-nailing but to also check materials in use match what is shown on roofing worksheets.  The in-progress / dry-in inspection must be scheduled at a point where installation of roofing underlayment is at least 50% to 100% complete and the roof covering installation is not more than 25% complete.  All drip edge flashings complete.  There is some flexibility to these parameters and inspectors will work to coordinate inspection times throughout the day to keep re-roofing projects moving. 

Please contact Robert Martin, Palm Coast Chief Building Inspector at 386-559-0729 with questions or if more information is needed.

Automated Inspection Line Down for Maintenance

June 18, 2021

The automated inspection line  is currently undergoing maintenance. 

Please schedule any inspections through the online portal at palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview or the Alexa system (directions below) to ensure inspections scheduled for Monday are requested.

We regret any inconvenience this may cause.

October 6, 2020

We are excited to announce that you can now request, cancel and check the status of your building inspection as well as check a permit status through Amazon's Alexa.

The following commands will be recognized:

• Request Inspection

   

  • Alexa ask Palm Coast to request inspection

  • Alexa schedule an inspection in Palm Coast

  • Alexa schedule a building inspection in Palm Coast

  • Alexa schedule my building inspection in Palm Coast

     

• Cancel Inspection

   

  • Alexa ask palm coast to cancel inspection

  • Alexa cancel an inspection in Palm Coast

  • Alexa cancel a building inspection in Palm Coast

  • Alexa cancel my building inspection in Palm Coast

     

• Permit Status

   

  • Alexa, ask palm coast for permit status

  • Alexa, check my permit status in Palm Coast

  • Alexa, check the status of my permit in Palm Coast

     

• Inspection Status

   

  • Alexa, ask Palm Coast for inspection status

  • Alexa check my inspection status in Palm Coast

  • Alexa check the status of my inspection in Palm Coast

You can also ask Alexa to 'OPEN PALM COAST' to get all Palm Coast options. 

If you experience difficulties with the commands, be reminded Alexa doesn't know 'where' you want to schedule an inspection unless you specify Palm Coast. 

Please view the attachment for additional directions and how to use Alexa from your telephone.

Reduction in Permitting Fees

(2nd reminder) 

June 18, 2021

Please be advised, permitting fees will resume August 1^st, 2021. 

This will affect permits applied for on or after August 1, 2021.

CONTRACTOR NEWSFLASH

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June 10, 2021

Re:  Fence Permits

Effective Immediately

Please be advised, a permit will no longer be required to install a fence, however, acknowledgement by the property owner of the City Land Development Code for fence installation is required before proceeding.

The online permitting system will now guide the property owner through the fence regulations and the acknowledgement form for approval to proceed. 

A permit will be generated in the database to retain the acknowledgement form, but will NOT require any fees or inspections.

This process must be completed by the property owner, the contractor may not do this on their behalf. 

Attached is a "How To" guide to assist your customers in navigating through the online approval process.

Any fence not meeting the City Land Development Code regulations will result in action through code enforcement.

Outstanding fence permits that have not received a final inspection will be administratively closed out. 

If you have any questions, please contact the Zoning Division at 386-986-3751. 

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Utility Installation Delays

June 1, 2021

Due to a temporary interruption in the delivery of raw materials to our normal suppliers of residential water meters and wastewater pep tanks, we wanted to inform you to expect some potential delays in installation times. Our vendors have indicated that this is only a temporary delay but will not guarantee delivery times.

Raw materials, such as resin and glass for pep tanks and microchips for water meters, have caused some delivery delays. The Utility Department has issued purchase orders to backup suppliers to help alleviate these delays but, as with many other construction materials, the backup pep tanks and meters are also in limited supply.

The Utility Department has also brought in contractors for both pep tanks and meters to help facilitate the new service installations.

We will keep you informed as to any changes, but until then we ask for your patience as we work to get your services installed based on the order in which they are received as well as the current stage of your project's construction.

With this situation it important to keep to the protocol of having your site confirmed ready for meter and tank installation, and to be vigilant in making sure your sites are clear from obstructions that may delay the installation.

Thank you for your understanding.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Reduction in Permitting Fees

June 1, 2020

Please be advised, permitting fees will resume August 1^st, 2021. 

This will affect permits applied for on or after August 1, 2021. 

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Roof Inspection Changes

May 3, 2021

Due to the recent transition to the 2020 Florida Building and Residential Codes and numerous changes to Chapter 9 (Residential Code) and Chapter 15 (Building Code) related to roof covering and underlayment materials and installation requirements, the Palm Coast Building Services Division is making the following adjustments to the permitting and inspection of roofing / re-roofing permits.

Permitting changes: 

Roofing / re-roofing worksheets have been revised for all roof covering and underlayment types with expanded descriptions of approved underlayment types based on the proposed roof covering.  Worksheets are available on-line and contain fillable fields to be completed by the roofing contractor identifying the roof covering, asphalt shingle classification (Class F and Class H) along with the specific choice of underlayment, a description of the applicable ASTM or other standard and Florida Product Approval Number. 

Four worksheets have been created.  One for asphalt, metal, photovoltaic, mineral rolled roofing and

slate / slate type roofing materials, a second for concrete and clay tiles, a third for built-up, modified bitumen, thermoset and thermoplastic single-ply and spray polyurethane foam and a fourth for wood shake and shingles.  Worksheets do ask for more specific information.  Help answering questions and assistance with competing worksheets is available. 

Link to roofing worksheets here: 

https://www.palmcoastgov.com/government/building/contractordocumentdetails/102

 Inspection changes:

Please take note!  All re-roofing applied for after 5:00 p.m.  May 14, 2021 require an in-progress / dry-in inspection.  The purpose of the in-progress / dry-in inspection is primarily so inspectors can check underlayment installation, to verify roof deck condition and spot check roof sheathing re-nailing but to also check materials in use match what is shown on roofing worksheets.  The in-progress / dry-in inspection must be scheduled at a point where installation of roofing underlayment is at least 50% to 100% complete and the roof covering installation is not more than 25% complete.  All drip edge flashings complete.  There is some flexibility to these parameters and inspectors will work to coordinate inspection times throughout the day to keep re-roofing projects moving. 

The roof nailing affidavit is still required and has not been changed.  Affidavits must be submitted prior to scheduling and receiving a final roof inspection. 

Please be advised, re-roofing permits applied for after 5:00p.m.  May 14, 2021 that do not schedule and obtain an in-progress inspection are ineligible to receive a final roof inspection and permits will not be finaled.

To assist inspectors with in-progress / dry-in AND final inspections, the following shall be on the job site at time of inspections and available to the inspector:

• The issued building permit

• The building inspection signature card

• The approved roofing worksheet(s)

• Roof covering and underlayment packaging materials sufficiently intact so the inspector can verify materials are consistent with the approved roofing worksheet as well as manufacturer, materials type, ASTM or other applicable standard and installation instructions.

• Underlayment at least 50% complete up to 100% complete

• Roof covering not more than 25% complete

• All drip edge flashings completed

• Random spot checking of roof sheathing re-nailing!

• Safe access to roofs for all inspections pursuant to 2020 FBC-Building Section 110.1.

Please contact Patrick Buckley, Palm Coast Chief Building Official at 386-986-3786 or at pbuckley@palmcoastgov.com with questions or if more information is needed.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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                                                                  Accommodation for Window Delays

April 30, 2021

Due to increasing lag times for window deliveries and resulting construction delays, the Building Services Division has received several requests to allow scheduling and completion of certain inspections without all windows installed.  Generally, the City will not approve an insulation inspection if any windows and doors are missing therefore effectively halting construction at that point preventing the installation of drywall.  In order to address construction delays caused by window shortages, the Building Division is authorizing the following:

Insulation inspections will now be approved without all windows and doors installed subject to the following conditions:

• At time of insulation inspection, window and door rough openings shall be covered by wood structural panels applied over the water resistive barrier and sufficiently fastened and sealed to prevent any water entry into the building AND in between exterior cladding materials and the wall surface. 

• If the inspector determines the panel attachment is inadequate, the insulation inspection will be failed with a correction to properly fasten, secure and seal the wood panel(s) and a re-inspection fee charged. 

• Upon approval of the insulation inspection where windows or doors are missing, the inspector will create a window/door inspection.  The window/door inspection will automatically be assigned an inspection priority code that will prevent scheduling of a building final inspection until the window / door inspection is approved. 

Please take note!  It is the license holder's responsibility to ensure window and door openings remain sealed to the entry of water for the duration windows and doors are not installed and to schedule the window and door inspection before concealing fasteners from view.  Please plan accordingly to prevent delays in obtaining final building inspections and issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. 

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Credit Card Convenience Fee

April 29, 2021

Effective August 1, 2021

An additional 2.75% convenience fee (of the total payment) will be incurred for ALL payments made online.  This fee will be will be added to the amount of your transaction and is in addition to any fees that may be charged by your financial institution

This will affect payments made by credit card and e-checks.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Sod Installation prior to Pep Tank Completion

April 26, 2021

The Wastewater Operations Department has seen an increase in the installation of sod prior to the tap or bore.  

This is resulting in damage to the newly installed sod around the pep tank. 

Please do not install sod until the tap or bore has been completed as this will result in damage to the new sod laid.

Plumbing Plans and Reviews

April 19, 2021

Effective Immediately for 1 & 2 Family Homes

A Plumbing Plan and Riser Diagram is no longer required to be submitted with a 1 & 2 Family Home permit application package.

Plumbing inspections are still required as required by Florida Building Code.

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

April 9, 2021

We continue to receive emails that are not able to be processed promptly. (Sometimes up to two days)   Please pass this along to your staff. 

In reference to the notices sent last week, please do not send time sensitive documents through email ( NOC's, affidavits, termite certs, surveys, blower door tests, etc.)  as we continue to experience email issues.  We cannot guarantee it will be processed timely.    We URGE you to upload through the online portal to ensure your submittal will be processed.   

We are receiving many phone calls inquring about their email submittals not being processed.   Please share this notice with others that may not be on this notification list but may submit documents for your company.  

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Roof Framing Deferred Submittal

April 6, 2021

Due to the difficulties in obtaining the required documents for Roof Framing at the time of permit application, we will allow a deferred submittal of these documents.    

The request for the deferred submittal must be submitted on your company letterhead. 

A document type has been created in the online portal named 'Deferred Submittal'.   Please name your file 'Roof Framing Deferred Submittal"  

You will be responsible for submitting the documents for review prior to the installation / inspection. 

If you have any questions, please contact the Building Division.

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 31, 2021

We continue to receive emails that are not able to be processed promptly. (Sometimes up to two days)   Please pass this along to your staff. 

In reference to the notices sent last week, please do not send time sensitive documents through email ( NOC's, affidavits, termite certs, blower door tests, etc.)  as we continue to experience email issues.  We cannot guarantee it will be processed timely.    We URGE you to upload through the online portal to ensure your submittal will be processed.   

We are receiving many phone calls inquring about their email submittals not being processed.   Please share this notice with others that may not be on this notification list but may submit documents for your company.  

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

*As of this notice, there are currently have 59 emails that cannot be processed.  We are able to see they are there, but not open them, many of these are roof affidavits, notice of commencements, foundation and final surveys, etc. 

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Roofing Worksheets

March 29, 2021

In addition to the previous newsflash sent yesterday regarding Roofing Worksheets, additional Roofing Worksheets have been designed to cover those types that are not as common. 

The previous two worksheets have been updated with some changes to make the fillable forms a little easier to complete.  

Please find the most current version attached to this notification. 

PREVIOUS EMAIL SENT

March 28, 2021

Effective Immediately

A roofing worksheet will be required when submitting a reroof or new construction permit application. 

Prior versions of the worksheet will not be accepted.

Applications received without a worksheet or a prior version will be rejected. 

The roofing worksheets are attached

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Roofing Worksheets

March 28, 2021

Effective Immediately

A roofing worksheet will be required when submitting a reroof or new construction permit application. 

Prior versions of the worksheet will not be accepted.

Applications received without a worksheet or a prior version will be rejected. 

The roofing worksheets are attached. 

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 22, 2021

In reference to the notices sent last week, please do not send time sensitive documents through email ( NOC's, affidavits, termite certs, blower door tests, etc.)  as we continue to experience email issues.  We cannot guarantee it will be processed timely.    We URGE you to upload through the online portal to ensure your submittal will be processed.   

We are receiving many phone calls inquring about their email submittals not being processed.   Please share this notice with others that may not be on this notification list but may submit documents for your company.  

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

.

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 16, 2021

In reference to the notices sent last week, please do not send time sensitive documents through email ( NOC's, affidavits, termite certs, blower door tests, etc.)  as we continue to experience email issues.  We cannot guarantee it will be processed timely.    We URGE you to upload through the online portal to ensure your submittal will be processed.   

We are receiving many phone calls inquring about their email submittals not being processed.   Please share this notice with others that may not be on this notification list but may submit documents for your company.  

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

This is the latest from our IT Department as of today. 

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 11, 2021

We continue to experience  connection issues with our email server.  

Emails sent with time sensitive documents may not be processed for hours or even the next day.  

We strongly encourage you to upload all documents through the online portal to ensure they are  received and they are processed.

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 10, 2021

We are experiencing intermittent connection issues with our email server. 

City staff is working on it dilligently for a resolution.  

We have experienced hours in delays in sending and receiving emails.

We strongly encourage you to upload all documents through the online portal to ensure they are  received and they are processed.

REMINDER - VERY IMPORTANT

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 10, 2021

We are experiencing intermittent connection issues with our email server. 

City staff is working on it dilligently for a resolution.  

We have experienced hours in delays in sending and receiving emails.

We strongly encourage you to upload all documents through the online portal to ensure they are  received and they are processed.

Sending and Receiving Emails Delays

March 9, 2021

We are experiencing intermittent connection issues with our email server. 

City staff is working on it dilligently for a resolution.  

We have experienced hours in delays in sending and receiving emails.

We strongly encourage you to upload all documents through the online portal to ensure they are  received and they are processed. 

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Duplex Firewall Inspections

February 24, 2021

Firewall Inspections have been added as a required inspection for Duplex permits.

These inspections will ensure proper installation, fastening and through penetrations protection. 

A Firewall Drywall Nailing and Firewall Final Inspections will be effective for all new permits issued.

(Inspection codes 2443 & 2445)

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Clearing and Construction Reminders

February 19, 2020

There has been an increase in damages to city utilities and clearing without prior approvals.

Please be reminded, clearing of any lots prior to an issued building permit is not permitted.    Clearing without the locates/permit issued not only may result in damage to utilities, but will result in a double permitting fee for commencing work without a permit.

We request that you do not clear after hours or on weekends as the Utility Department is not staffed to respond in a timely manner to damages. 

Care must be given to the utilities in the right-of-ways.

When damage has occurred, the contractor of record will be charged to cover the cost of repairs.  (Which can be very costly)

Extra care should be taken when trees are close to utility lines to ensure they are not damaged or ripped out (along with utility lines).  Trees may be cut at the ground level and the stumps may be milled below ground level.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this, please contact

Danny Ashburn, Utility Systems Manager.

 386-986-2370

 dashburn@palmcoastgov.com

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Online Submittals - Digitally Signed and Sealed

February 11, 2021

Effective Monday, February 15, 2021

The temporarily rule that expanded the use of electronically or digitally signed and sealed engineering plans and documents to include printed copies (due to Covid-19) has expired. 

Plans and documents submitted online, requiring a signature and seal from an architect or engineer, must be digitally signed and sealed per F.S. 471.025 and F.A.C. 61G15-23.004

Copies of digital signatures or physically signed and sealed documents will no longer be accepted. 

We encourage you to utilize digital signatures and continue to use the online permitting portal for streamlining your permits. 

You may find additional information regarding the requirements for architects and engineer seals here - https://fbpe.org/legal/signing-and-sealing-engineering-documents/

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Customer Survey

January 28, 2021

In an effort to identify gaps in our customer service, we will be launching a survey for our active customers who can provide the most valuable feedback.

Surveys will be sent at the time of permit issuance and completion.  The survey is designed to be brief and take no more than one minute to complete.

Your participation is important and may have a significant impact on our future level of service.  

We look forward to hearing your feedback to help us identify areas for improvement. 

Unable to Obtain a Final Inspection

1-8-20

There have been questions raised how to handle a final inspection when the property owner will not make the inspection area available for inspection. 

It is strongly encouraged to schedule the inspection directly following the completion of the work, as it is our experience that the more time lapses, the more difficult it is for a contractor to obtain the final inspection when a homeowner needs to be home.

The Building Department cannot release a contractor's responsibility from a permit where the work has been completed.

The Building Department will pursue the property owner through the Code Enforcement Board proving a minimum of the following items have been done and provided to the Building Department

1. Inspection has been requested.

2. Letters / notice requesting inspection has been sent to property owner via certified mail - return receipt requested and copies (including certified mail receipt) have been provided to the Building Department.

3. Letter / notice posted on property (picture for proof)

4. Phone log of attempted calls to property owner.  (Should continue throughout the 6 months)

These steps must be throughout the 6 months of the active permit PRIOR to the expiration.  These actions are to protect YOU the contractor from action with the Department of Business and Professional Regulations / Flagler County Contractor Licensing Review Board.  Without the above information, we do not have proof to defend that you did your due diligence. 

The evidence you supply must be enough to convince the local Code Enforcement Board , Loca Contractor Licensing Review Board and Department of Business and Professional Regulations you have done everything possible to gain compliance.   

If the permit expires, a new permit will be required if the above steps have not been taken.   These steps must be taken during the course of an ACTIVE permit.   

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Transportation Impact Fee Increase Reminder

December 29, 2020

Effective for permits applied for on or after January 1^st.

This table addresses residential construction only.  

For a complete list of the transportation impact

Fees, please visit our website https://docs.palmcoastgov.com/departments/building/appimpactfeesummary.pdf

Residential Homebuilders will see an increase in transportation impact fees effective for residential permits applied for January 1^st or after. 

Original ITT platted lot - a residential lot with final plat approval as of December 30, 1977.  In most cases, it will be a legal description beginning with Section, Block and Lot (07-11-31-70)

Please check our website for official copies of the fee schedule. 

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Holiday Scheduling for Land Clearing

December 18, 2020

City offices and services will be closed for the Holidays on the following days:

Christmas - December 24^th & 25^th

New Years - December 31^st & January 1^st

We encourage you to not schedule any land clearing work during this time as the city will not have the staff to make repairs if damage occurs to existing water and sewer utilities.

If work done during these days,  the contractors will be subject to time and materials charges for any damage occurred.

Aside from the holiday seaon, landlcearing in the right of way preferably should be done between 7:00am and 4:00pm when City repair crews are present to make repairs when necessary.  Cost incurred for City staff to make repairs  after hours will  be charged  to the builder.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays!

Final Survey Reviews

December 18, 2020

To help clarify review comments the Stormwater Division has completed a checklist specific to Final Survey Reviews.

Beginning January 4^th, all Final Survey reviews will include an attached Final Survey Checklist that will identify any outstanding issues.

If you have any questions, please contact the Stormwater Division at 386-986-4789.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Holiday Schedule

December 11, 2020

City offices and services will be closed for the Holidays on the following days:

Christmas - December 24^th & 25^th

New Years - December 31^st & January 1^st

Please note, any permit application submitted after 5:00 p.m. December 30^th must adhere to the new edition of the Florida Building Code.

We wish you and your family the happiest and safest of Holiday seasons.

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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New Edition of the Florida Building Code

(Revised)

December 11, 2020

On January 1, 2021, the 7^th Edition of the Florida Building Code will in effect. 

All permit applications applied for on or after January 1, 2021 must comply with the 7^th Edition Florida Building Codes and all referenced Standards.

The 2017 National Electrical Code NFPA 70 will be the referenced Electrical Code.

(The previous noticed indicated the 2014 National Electric Code)

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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New Edition of the Florida Building Code

December 10, 2020

On January 1, 2021, the 7^th Edition of the Florida Building Code will go into effect. 

All permit applications applied for on or after January 1, 2021 must comply with the 7^th Edition Florida Building Codes and all referenced Standards.

The 2014 National Electrical Code NFPA 70 will be the referenced Electrical Code.

City of Palm Coast

Building Division

386-986-3780

palmcoastgov.com

CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH

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Utility Installation Delays

November 17, 2020

The City of Palm Coast Utility Wastewater Operations Department is experiencing increased installation times for installing new Pep Tanks, Service Taps, and Bores performed by our contractors due increased building growth, staffing shortages, and unusually wet weather starting in August of this year.

Rest assured we are working diligently to try and keep up as to not cause delays for your projects. Because of the current staffing situation placed on the Utility and caused by the pandemic the Utility has hired contractors to assist in this backlog of work. No doubt you are experiencing delays as well with both materials delays and labor issues caused by staff that have to quarantine as we have had this happen within our workforce.

We are asking for your patience in working with us to try and meet your schedules but there will be an extension on the timeline for the service installations especially in the pep areas.  Please be patient and take into consideration the current circumstances and know we will be doing our best to keep from delaying your projects but our first priority will be to keep the sanitary sewer system in Palm Coast functioning as to not have sewer overflows or backups. Those of you that have been here for some time know that this difficult time will pass and things will return to normal.

We still welcome your communication with Wastewater Operations as to the status of our schedule to install your tanks but to assist you in your planning this is a temporary guideline for you to go by.

The process to request your tank based on meeting the criteria as to being site ready has not changed nor has the Utility inspection process that verifies (resulted) status that will start the timeline for the tank installation. Please allow a minimum of six weeks from the time you submit for your pep tank for the installation to be completed.

Moving forward hopefully this timeline can be improved on but under the current situation please use this for planning your project. The installation of the pep panel and pump assembly will follow in a timely manner.

Thank you,

Danny Ashburn

Manager of Wastewater Operations