Contractor Alerts
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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
City of Palm Coast Building Division 386-986-3780
palmcoastgov.com
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Permitting Portal down for Maintenance
REMINDER !
Starting tonight October 9, 2020
The online permitting portal will undergo maintenance this weekend and will not be available during the following times:
Friday 7:00 p.m. - Sunday 1:00 p.m.
We regret any inconvenience this may cause you and urge you to plan accordingly
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City of Palm Coast
Building Division
386-986-3780
palmcoastgov.com
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Permitting Portal down for Maintenance
October 8, 2020
The online permitting portal will undergo maintenance this weekend and will not be available during the following times:
Friday 7:00 p.m. - Sunday 1:00 p.m.
We regret any inconvenience this may cause you and urge you to plan accordingly.
City of Palm Coast
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CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Inspection Requests with Alexa!
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:
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Request Inspection
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Alexa ask Palm Coast to request inspection
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Alexa schedule an inspection in Palm Coast
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Alexa schedule a building inspection in Palm Coast
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Alexa schedule my building inspection in Palm Coast
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Cancel Inspection
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Alexa ask palm coast to cancel inspection
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Alexa cancel an inspection in Palm Coast
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Alexa cancel a building inspection in Palm Coast
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Alexa cancel my building inspection in Palm Coast
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Permit Status
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Alexa, ask palm coast for permit status
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Alexa, check my permit status in Palm Coast
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Alexa, check the status of my permit in Palm Coast
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Inspection Status
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Alexa, ask Palm Coast for inspection status
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Alexa check my inspection status in Palm Coast
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Alexa check the status of my inspection in Palm Coast
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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.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Permitting Portal down for Maintenance
October 6, 2020
The online permitting portal will undergo maintenance this weekend and will not be available during the following times:
October 9th - 11th
Friday 7:00 p.m. - Sunday 1:00 p.m.
We regret any inconvenience this may cause you and urge you to plan accordingly.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Erosion Control
September 22, 2020
The city has been receiving an increasing number of complaints and inspectors are seeing missing, damaged, non-functioning, silt fencing made worse by the recent rainy weather.
This is a friendly reminder that Palm Coast Code of Ordinances Chapter 24, Division 2, Section 24 - 76 outlines the requirements to prevent erosion of surface soil into adjoining water bodies.
Persons involved in the construction, remodeling or repair of buildings and/or pools in the City shall use Best Management Practices to prevent erosion of surface soil into adjoining water bodies.
Any one or more of the following methods shall be used at the options of the contractor or owner on side and backyard water bodies, unless directed to the contrary by the City:
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A strip of vegetated land not less than eight-feet wide shall be left undisturbed on the site adjacent to t a water body.
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In the rear or side yard leading to a waterbody, a properly staked and installed filter cloth screen across the lot line shall be maintained until the lot has been sodded and landscaped
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Bales of straw or hay may be used to prevent soil runoff in place of a filter cloth screen or eight-foot vegetated strip.
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Any other erosion control devised approved by the City Manager or his designee.
Definitions:
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Surface water - water upon the surface of the earth, whether contained in bounds created naturally or artificially or diffused.
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Water bodies - fresh and salt water canals, ditches, lakes, marshes, rivers, swamps and swales in the city.
Damages or non-functioning erosion control measures need to be maintained during the duration of construction. Please be sure to do your part to ensure compliance.
Thank you in advance for being a good neighbor in your community.
Ordinance in its entirety - https://library.municode.com/fl/palm_coast/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH24EN_ARTIIPOCO
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Park and Fire Impact Fee Increase
September 16, 2020
The Fire and Parks Impact Fees will increase for new residential and commercial construction as described below.
Fire Impact Fee
Effective for permits applied for on or after October 7, 2020:
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Residential - $367.00 per dwelling unit
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Non-residential- $.59 per square foot
Permit applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. October 6, 2020
Parks Impact Fee
Effective for permit applied for on or after October 20, 2020:
- Residential - $1,199.12 per dwelling unit
Permit applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. October 19, 2020
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Unable to Obtain a Final Inspection
9-16-20
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, 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
- Inspection has been requested.
- 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.
- Letter / notice posted on property (picture for proof)
- 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.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Delays in PEP tank Installation
August 24, 2020
The Wastewater Operations Department is experiencing difficulties and delays in installing new Pep Tanks, Service Taps, and Bores performed by our contractors due to the recent weather pattern with daily heavy rainfall.
No doubt you are experiencing delays as well. It is still our goal to have all pep tanks installed within ten days of site ready if the location of the pep tanks is clear from obstruction and debris.
If the rain persists and the groundwater table continues to rise, it will be necessary to dewater each site in order to install the tank properly. This will add a minimum of three days to the process.
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 understand that delays will occur based on the current weather situation.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Reminders
August 12, 2020
Thank you for your continued patience as City Hall remains closed to the public. We anticipate an opening announcement in the next few weeks. In the meantime, please review the following reminders. If you have any questions or concerns please email buildingdivision@palmcoastgov.com.
No Truck Route
Florida Park Drive has been posted as a 'no truck route' as well as any residential street within the city limits of Palm Coast. We are reminding you to do your part by ensuring that trucks and delivery vehicles utilize the approved commercial routes:
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Palm Coast Parkway
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Old Kings Road
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Belle Terre Parkway/Boulevard
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Palm Harbor Parkway
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Pine Lakes Parkway
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Whiteview Parkway
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Seminole Woods Boulevard
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US Hwy 1
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State Road 100
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Colbert Lane
Please notify and remind your delivery drivers / and your own truck drivers so they can adjust their routes. Trucks ticketed on a 'no truck route' will be issued a $200 fine.
Submitting Corrections, Revisions, Additional Documents
We ask that you please submit all documents through the online permitting portal. Documents processed through the portal are processed more efficiently and accurately than email. Regardless of the venue you choose to submit, your documents should be named accordingly and include a revision slip. Submitting improperly named documents or incorrectly not only slows your review and processing time, but other applicants as well.
Virtual Inspections
We offer virtual inspections through the google duo app for inspections of occupied structures for HVAC change-outs, window and door replacements, garage door replacements, water heaters, and other small projects on a case by case basis.
Permit Fee Discount
To address a surplus of permitting fees collected for the purpose of enforcing the Florida Building Code and to comply with F.S. 553.80, fees have been reduced by 100% effective July 8th. A change in Florida Statute provides for a Building Department to carry over a fund balance equal to the average of the last 4 years operating budget and shall refund the remainder. This discount will remain in effect until the fund balance falls below $2.4 million. This discount applies to ALL permits charged regardless of the applicant (owner/builder or contractor). The City encourages passing the fee reduction on to customers in an effort to help residents with the cost of repairs and maintenance, increase your business and encourage communitywide economic growth. (The discount does not apply to Zoning, Engineering, Stormwater, Utility, State or any other governmental agency fees).
Gopher Tortoise / Wildlife Inspections
If the property you are improving has been flagged for a possible gopher tortoise home, a field inspection will be conducted during the permit review. If it is deemed that no gopher tortoise or burrows are located on the lot, the inspection will be approved and the permit may proceed. Should the inspector find evidence of a gopher tortoise, it will be the responsibility of the contractor to hire a private authorized agent to commence with permitting and relocation activities.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Storm Preparedness
July 31, 2020
When severe weather hits, will your job site be ready?
Buildings under construction are at high risk of catastrophic damage during a 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. 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, 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 Hurricane Warning is announced.
- 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.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Gopher Tortoise/Wildlife Inspection
July 16, 2020
Effective August 3rd,
The City of Palm Coast Community Development Department will add Wildlife Inspections to some residential building permits. This specific inspection will only be added to properties that have the address record flagged for occurrence of Gopher Tortoise. The cost per inspection is $40, and the City's Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent will conduct the field inspection during the permit review process. If it is deemed that no Gopher Tortoise or burrows are located on the lot, the inspection will be approved and the permit may proceed. Should the inspector find Gopher Tortoise or burrows; it will be the responsibility of the contractor to hire a private Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent to commence with permitting and relocation activities.
Note that inspections will only be added to lots that have been flagged for Gopher Tortoise. It is still the responsibility of the contractor to report any new findings of Gopher Tortoise occurrence, to the City, on lots that are not flagged.
Should any questions arise, contact the City's Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent, Jordan Myers at jmyers@palmcoastgov.com
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Reduction in Permitting Fees
July 8, 2020
Effective Immediately,
Building Permit Administration, Plan Review and Inspection fees will be reduced by 100% in an effort to provide an economic stimulus to the local construction industry.
The discount will remain in effect until the building fund balance falls below $2,400,000. A notice will be provided 60 days prior to the fees reverting back to the full amount.
The fee reduction includes those fees that are allocated to the building fund, this does not include zoning, engineering, planning, stormwater, utilities or any other fees assessed by other divisions.
This reduction will not be credited towards any previously paid permits.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Minimum Setbacks
June 12, 2020
Please be reminded that all structures are required to adhere to the minimum setbacks of the applicable zoning district. Structures greater than 300 sq. ft. must demonstrate the minimums are met on a foundation survey.
Although it is not a requirement, to help alleviate the need for corrective action, the city strongly recommends using construction industry standard best practices of a form-board survey prior to pouring the slab.
In addition, continuing with vertical construction prior to the approval of your foundation survey may result in costly mitigation to bring the property into conformance.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Digitally Signed and Sealed Plans
May 4, 2020
Please be reminded, that Florida Rule 61G15-23.004 provides the procedures for digitally signing and sealing electronically transmitted plans, specifications, reports or other documents.
When a digitally created seal is used, the following language must accompany that seal:
"This item has been digitally signed and sealed by (NAME) on the date adjacent to the seal. Printed copies of this document are not considered signed and sealed and the signature must be verified on any electronic copies"
Please be sure to check any digitally signed and sealed documents you are submitting to ensure the above language is part of the signature.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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PEP Tank Installation Request
April 22, 2020
The timeline request for a PEP tank installation has been moved up to allow the request following an approved framing inspection.
City staff is encountering problems with new construction being close to completion, FPL energized lines located in the construction boundaries, and sod / landscaping installed prior to tank, bore (if needed), tap, and control panels installed.
In an effort to help minimalize these complications, the request for a PEP tank installation will be permitted following an approved Framing Inspection, and when the following requirements have been met:
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Pep Tank site must be clear of construction debris. (dumpsters, porta-lets, temporary power poles, and building supplies and materials.
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Trees cannot be located within the tank site.
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Building or home must be at the finished framing stage. When notifying the City that you are ready for this inspection then request your pep tank at this time. This will allow the Utility to coordinate other components of the installation such as scheduling a bore if needed; coordinate with FPL to assure underground power is not placed in the construction boundaries, or to schedule for a pole hold if needed. This timeline will prevent any unnecessary damage to existing sod or landscaping and help the Utility to complete this process without delays in construction.
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The Utility is still committed to installing the pep tank within ten (10) working days from the time of site ready. At the time of the framing inspection, this is not considered site ready but it triggers the scheduling of other work involved in the process. The determination of site ready will be at the discretion of the Utility based on the stage of construction.
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A cleanout must be installed on the sewer stub-out by the house as a reference point to assure the tank is placed at the proper elevation. (stakes driven in the ground by the stub-out is not acceptable as a permanent mark)
If the requirements above are not met, the inspection will be cancelled, a re-inspection fee assessed and will need to be requested again when the above criteria has been met.
The installs will be scheduled once the request has been approved and the Utility deems the site to be ready.
Any cost incurred due to damage to the Water Meter or Pep Tank during construction shall be the sole responsibility of the builder.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Building Services to Continue
April 2, 2020
Building Community,
The Governor of Florida and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have identified the following as Essential Services:
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Workers performing housing construction related activities to ensure additional units can be made available to combat the nation's existing housing supply shortage.
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Workers supporting the construction of housing, including those supporting government functions related to the building and development process, such as inspections, permitting and plan review services that can be modified to protect the public health, but fundamentally should continue and serve the construction of housing.
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Workers who support the supply chain of building materials from production through application/installation, including cabinetry, fixtures, doors, cement, hardware, plumbing, electrical, heating/cooling, refrigeration, appliances, paint/coatings, and employees who provide services that enable repair materials and equipment for essential functions.
During this time, city offices remain closed to the public; however, the Community Development is making every effort to support Essential Services with the following modified changes:
Permit Submittals and Revisions- all permits are to be submitted through our online permitting portal www.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview Materials are available on that site to guide you through the process. If you need assistance, please give us a call. (We are not accepting any paper permits)
Inspections - will be performed as usual with the exception of occupied structures. For the safety of everyone involved, we ask that you wait until the threat of the Coronavirus has passed before requesting inspections for occupied structures. Inspections will not be performed when it is necessary for the inspector to enter a living space. All inspections will still be required. If you feel the inspection is necessary and cannot wait, requests will be determined on a case by case basis.
Expiring Permits - all permits that were set to expire within the next 90 days have been extended to June 30th. An additional 90 days will be granted on a case by case basis, if necessary, please email your request to buildingdivision@palmcoastgov.com
Notice of Commencements - are still required per Florida Statutes. The Flagler County Clerk's office is returning a certified recorded copy to you via email.
Paper Permits Submitted - for permits submitted prior to the city closing to the public, the folders will be outside for you to pickup. Payments can be made online www.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview
Foundation and Final Surveys - will be accepted through the online portal. The raised seal on the survey will need to be shaded (darkened with a pencil/crayon) before scanned and the type of survey written across the top.
Agreements - original agreement must be submitted by mail. These documents are required to be recorded with the Clerk's office and copies are not permitted. (Examples include: license agreements for saltwater and freshwater access, right of way agreements, binding & rescinding lot agreements, etc.)
Flood Zone Certificates - will be accepted electronically. The raised seal on the certificate will need to be shaded before scanned. If you submit via email, the file name should say 'flood zone certificate' and include a revision sheet. If you submit through the online portal (which is recommended for accuracy), a revision sheet will be generated for you to complete upon submittal. Original certificates will be required prior to the certificate of occupancy - you may mail them to us.
Helpful Tips
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Step by step directions how to submit, make payments, schedule inspections, manage sub-contractors can be found here: http://docs.palmcoastgov.com/departments/building/online/how-to-submit-online.pdf
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All documents should be uploaded through the online portal to provide for accuracy, efficiency and reduces the risk of mistakes.
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Documents are to uploaded as be separate files (pages).
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It is important to name your file correctly for all submissions
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Revision/correction sheets are automatically generated when uploading through the portal, it is not necessary to upload one.
The City of Palm Coast Building Division is committed to supporting the essential services provided by the development industry.
All newsflashes are available on our website on the Building Services webpage. https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/government/building/alerts
Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this time.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Submitting Documents
March 26, 2020
Building Community,
The City of Palm Coast Building Division is committed to supporting the essential services provided by the development industry, especially during these challenging times.
As we modify submittal processes and requirements, we are receiving many documents scanned coming via email without a file name, little/no direction without a revision sheet, final and foundation surveys without permit #'s or any information.
We strongly encourage you to upload all documents through the online portal to ensure they are applied to the correct permit.
If you continue to send via email, please name your file what it is (final survey, foundation survey, etc.) and include a revision sheet. http://docs.palmcoastgov.com/departments/building/permitting/revision%20sheet.pdf
Without this information, there is a higher risk of error and delay in processing your submission.
Thank you to those who have made efforts to pick up paper permits that are ready. You are encourage to pay and pickup any permits that you have ready for issuance that may begin construction soon as they may not be available in the future for pickup.
We will make every effort to keep you informed of any changes to our process and answer questions the best we can.
All newsflashes are available on our website on the Building Services webpage. https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/government/building/alerts
Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this time.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Paper Permit Files
March 25, 2020
Building Community,
The City of Palm Coast Building Division is committed to supporting the essential services provided by the development industry, especially during these challenging times.
As we continue to modify services, we anticipate the possibility of our staff working from home.
If that happens, you will no longer have access to your paper files when you pay for your permit. You will need to find a solution for printing your documents for the constuction site. Currently, the files are located outside the city hall main entrance for easy pickup.
We are encouraging you to pay and pickup any permits that you have ready for issuance that may begin construction soon.
We will continue to make every effort to keep you informed of any changes to our process and answer questions the best we can.
All newsflashes are available on our website on the Building Services webpage. https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/government/building/alerts
Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this time.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Recorded Agreements
March 23, 2020
Building Community,
The City of Palm Coast Building Division is taking precautionary measures to slow the spread of the Coronavirus and limit the number of people infected while continuing to provide the best service we can.
As scenarios and question arise, we will do our best to keep you informed.
Many permit applications require an 'Agreement' be submitted and recorded with the Flagler County Clerks office. These 'Agreements' must be original, copies are not permitted.
These agreements include
- License Agreement for Salt or Fresh Water Access
- Right-of-Way Utilization Agreement for Paver Driveways
- 2' Easement Encroachment License Agreement for Mechanical Equipment or Walkways
- Binding Lot Agreement
- Rescinding Binding Lot Agreement
- Termination of Easement to Effectuate Binding Lot Agreement
Please mail your Agreements for processing to:
City of Palm Coast
Zoning Division
160 Lake Ave
Palm Coast, FL 32164
We will continue to make every effort to keep you informed of any changes during this crisis.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this time.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Changes to Permitting Activities Amidst the Coronavirus
March 23, 2020
Building Community,
The City of Palm Coast Building Division is taking precautionary measures to slow the spread of the Coronavirus and limit the number of people infected while continuing to provide the best service we can.
These changes effective today include:
Paper: Paper is longer accepted.
Dropbox/Depository: The depository box outside City Hall will no longer be acceptable for any drop-offs.
Permit Application Packages: All permit applications must be submitted online through the online portal www.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview The site offers a step by step guide to help navigate you through the process - "How to Submit Online". Staff is available to answer any questions you might have 386-986-3780.
Foundation and Final Surveys: Surveys are to be submitted online. The raised seal will need to be shaded. "Foundation or final' is to be written at the top of the survey.
Elevation Certificates: Elevation Certificates are to be submitted online. Original copies are required prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. If you have a final elevation certificate, submit a copy online and the original certificate will be required when the Building Division resumes normal operations.
Inspections of Occupied Structures: Inspections of occupied structures are suspended. We will inspect areas located in the garage or outside of the home, but not inside an occupied home. Please cancel any inspections you may have and contact the property owner.
You do not have to be a registered user or create an account to use the online system. (An account is required for permit submittals)
We will make every effort to keep you informed of any changes to our process and answer questions the best we can.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this time.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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A Guide to Permitting Webinar
March 20, 2020
To keep employees, residents and visitors safe, we are asking you to do your part by using our online permitting portal, available 24/7.
The Building Division will host an online webinar to walk you through the online process for all permitting activities.
What: A Guide to Online Permitting
When: March 23, 2020
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Directions: go to https://globalpage-prod.webex.com/join
You will see "JOIN A MEETING"
Meeting number (access code): 790 257 688
Meeting Password: ymMUEJ2Zt85
We encourage you to sign in early to ensure your computer is set up for access. We will take questions through the chat feature.
Please take the time to familiarize yourself with our online permitting site at https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview
There you will see:
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What can I do here? Providing all features offered on the site.
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How to Submit Online? Step by step instructions to guide you through all of the features available
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Guide to digital signatures - Outlines state requirements for a digital signature and how to set one up.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Use of Dropbox for Permitting Services
March 18, 2020
Building Community,
We are continuing to take precautions for those who visit us in person.
There is a Drop-Box directly outside the entrance to city hall. Please use this to drop off the following items:
- Foundation Survey (original required)
- Final Survey (original required)
- Elevation Certificate (original required)
- Roofing Affidavits
- Blower door tests
- Envelope leakage tests
- Termite Certificates
- Notice of Commencement
- Agreements
- Permit Applications and documents that will fit into a business size envelope.
- Paper that may fit into a business size envelope
The envelope must have written the following information on it:
- Building Department
- Job Address
- Permit #
- Description of enclosed items
We will monitoring the Drop-Box throughout the day.
We are asking you to be wise and take all precautions to stop the spread of germs by limiting your visits to city hall. Our online system offers the submittals of any items that do not require an original sealed copy. Anything identified above with the exception of surveys and elevation certificates, may be submitted using the online portal. https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview
You do not have to be a registered user or create an account to use the online system. You may use the guest access. (An account is required for permit submittals)
Attached is a picture of the Drop-Box for easy identification.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience.
Building and Zoning have been moved to the Customer Service area located at the front of City Hall - if you are using the Drop-Box, please feel free to brighten our day - knock on the window and give us a smile and wave!
Permitting Activities Relocated
March 17, 2020
Building Community,
We are taking precautions for those who continue to visit us in person. Permitting Services have been relocated to the main entrance of City Hall in the customer service area.
We are asking you to exercise extreme caution and take all precautions to stop the spread of germs.
To promote the important recommendation of social distancing and limit potential for the spread of the virus, we strongly encourage you to familiarize yourself with our online permitting system. https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview
The following tools are available on the portal to provide immediate assistance:
Video tutorial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_Gv8m3YgYM&feature=youtu.be
Online permitting directions - http://docs.palmcoastgov.com/departments/building/online/how-to-submit-online.pdf
We are working on a solution to provide an interactive webinar to guide you through the online process, however, have had a few hurdles to overcome, as things are not as readily available as they once were.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience.
Permitting Activities during the Corona Virus Outbreak
March 16, 2020
Building Community,
At this time, we intend to maintain normal operations for building plan review and inspections. However, we ask for your help in protecting our team, so we can continue as normal, by limiting trips to City Hall if not essential.
If you need a question answered, please try calling 386-986-3780 first. If there is no answer, please leave a message and we will return your call.
All permit types may be submitted through our electronic system: https://fullsite.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview
The following tools are available on the portal to provide immediate assistance:
Video tutorial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_Gv8m3YgYM&feature=youtu.be
Online permitting directions - http://docs.palmcoastgov.com/departments/building/online/how-to-submit-online.pdf
Additionally, we will be providing live web based training very soon; a notice with detailed information will be sent out later today.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Public Service Notice- Florida Park Drive
January 22, 2020
Dear Contractor,
The City of Palm Coast is providing this message as a public service notice. Florida Park Drive, from Palm Harbor Parkway to the Island Walk Shopping Center Driveway has been posted as a No Truck Route; As well as, any residential street within the City limits of the City of Palm Coast.
As Palm Coast has grown, residential street have become a popular route for cars, trucks, delivery vehicles and more. This has led to congestion, noise issues and safety concerns.
We're asking that you do your part, by ensuring that trucks and delivery vehicles utilize approved commercial routes. Any Heavy Truck making a delivery or providing services to or from a location in or abutting a No Truck Route, to which location would otherwise be inaccessible by such vehicle.
Established truck routes:
-
Palm Coast Parkway
-
Old Kings Road
-
Belle Terre Parkway/Boulevard
-
Palm Harbor Parkway
-
Matanzas Woods Parkway
-
Pine Lakes Parkway
-
Whiteview Parkway
-
Seminole Woods Boulevard
-
US 1
-
SR 100
-
Colbert Lane
Please notify your delivery drivers and/or your own truck drivers so they can adjust their routes. Trucks ticketed on a No Truck Route will be issued a $200 fine for the first violation.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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ROW Utilization Agreements - Paver Driveways
January 10, 2020
Effective Immediately,
The notary law changed Jan 1, 2020 requiring an update to the notary blocks on all forms. Anything signed on or after Jan. 1, 2020 MUST use the new form or the Clerk's Office will not record the document. We will not be able to approve any agreements which are received with the old form with a signature date that doesn't meet the date requirement.
Attached please find revised Right-of-Way Utilization Agreements for your immediate use. Please note that these are fillable forms for your convenience.
PLEASE DISCARD ALL PREVIOUS FORMS THAT YOU HAVE AND USE ONLY THESE FROM NOW ON!!
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Truss Layout Submittal Requirement
January 8, 2020
In an effort to clarify the Truss Layout submittal requirement for new construction,
There are generally two types of truss plans, both of which are nearly the same. One is a generic truss layout plan provided by the truss manufacturer and the other, is a truss layout provided by the engineer who is performing the structural design for the home.
The primary difference between the two plans:
-
Truss Manufacturer Layout - a guide as to where trusses should be placed.
-
Engineered Design Layout - provides structural information and requirements that are necessary for the roof to be properly constructed and anchored and provides for proper inspections. This layout will be signed and sealed by the Engineer.
The city requires the signed and sealed Engineered Design Layout as part of a new construction permit package for plan review.
Please see the attachments for examples.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Grounding Electrical Boxes
January 8, 2020
It has come to our attention that numerous electrical boxes are not being properly grounded to the home's electrical wiring system. This has been noticed mostly at lighting outlet boxes where grounding conductors are not being connected to the grounding screw on the light mounting bracket inside the outlet box/ junction boxes. This practice could result in metal parts within the electrical box and / or the fixture to become energized which in turn could result in an electric shock hazard.
As a reminder, a complete path to ground is required in all electrical circuits according to the National Electric Code Article 110.3(B) and 440.40. A complete path includes all metal parts and components including fixtures connected to lighting and other outlets. Please be advised, the Electrical Inspector will be closely checking lighting and other equipment installations at time of final electrical inspections to ensure electricians are properly completing wiring methods and in particular methods relating to the proper wiring of grounding conductors. The discovery of improper wiring methods may result in a request by the Inspector to remove lighting fixture and other cover plates to reveal wiring internal to outlet boxes for the purpose of inspection to ensure a complete grounding path has been provided in accordance with the NEC. If grounding or other wiring problems are encountered, corrections and re-inspections will be required and could result in delays in closing permits and issuance of Certificates of Occupancy.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Utility Cross Connection Inspection
January 6, 2020
Effective for all permits applied for on or after January 6th.
In an effort to protect the general public, a Cross Connection inspection will be added to all Single Family & Duplex permits.
This inspection will ensure that before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, a cross connection to the potable water supply is not present. This includes, but is not limited to reuse/reclaimed water, wells and irrigation lines.
The City of Palm Coast does install double check back flows at the meter to protect the main lines from a potential hazard; however, if a cross connection occurs on the home side or after the meter and back flow, there is a potential to contaminate the home owners water supply. (This is why this inspection is so important)!
This inspection code will be a 9035 'Utility Cross Connection' and will be identified on your permit placard for all new single family & Duplex construction.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Holiday Schedule
December 17, 2019
The City of Palm Coast would like to announce that it will be observing special holiday hours to allow employees to enjoy the special time of year both with their families and with their coworkers.
"Everyone has been working so hard this year," said Morton. "I thought it was important to allow everyone an extra day to recharge and come back refreshed. Family time and personal time is so important-especially during this busy time of year."
In addition, City offices (both City Hall and public areas of other City buildings) will be closed from 11 am to 1 pm on Wednesday, December 18 to allow City employees to enjoy an annual special lunch together, put together by the City's "Boosting All Morale" (BAM!) Team.
The entire city office closures are as follows:
-
Wednesday, December 18 - from 11 am to 1 pm
-
Tuesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve):
-
Wednesday, December 25 (Christmas Day):
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Thursday, December 26
-
Wednesday, January 1 (New Year's Day):
The City of Palm Coast would like to wish everyone a Happy Holidays. It has been a pleasure serving you in 2019 and we look forward to a great 2020
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Transportation Impact Fee Increase
December 17, 2019
This table addresses residential construction only. For a complete list of the transportation impact
Fees, please visit our website.
**The table has been updated to reflect the total impact fee amount for duplex** (not per unit)
|
|
|
Current fee |
Jan 1st |
Jan 1st total with 3% discount (if paid at permit issuance) |
|
Single Family |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$1,632 |
$1,674 |
(-50.22) $1,623.78 |
|
|
All other lots |
$2,981 |
$3,059 |
(-91.77) $2,967.23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Duplex |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$2,532 |
$2,598 |
(-77.94) $2,520.06 |
|
|
All other lots |
$4,622 |
$4,742 |
(-142.26) $4,599.74 |
Residential Homebuilders will see an increase in transportation impact fees effective for residential permits applied for January 1st or after. (Online packets that must be submitted by close of business day December 31st)
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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Transportation Impact Fee Increase
December 10, 2019
This table addresses residential construction only. For a complete list of the transportation impact
Fees, please visit our website.
|
|
|
Current fee |
Jan 1st |
Total with 3% discount (if paid at permit issuance) |
|
Single Family |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$1,632 |
$1,674 |
(-50.22) $1,623.78 |
|
|
All other lots |
$2,981 |
$3,059 |
(-91.77) $2,967.23 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Duplex |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$1,266 |
$1,299 |
(-38.97) $1,260.03 |
|
|
All other lots |
$2,311 |
$2,371 |
(-71.13) $2,299.87 |
Residential Homebuilders will see an increase in transportation impact fees effective for residential permits applied for January 1st 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.