Contractor Alerts
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CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Online Permitting
6-24-22
We are encouraged by how many of you are using the online permitting portal and hope that you find it to be more efficient in comparison to visiting city offices and submitting paper.
To keep this process as efficient as possible, it is very important that the submittal format and file naming convention are followed every time you submit. Each customer has their own way of naming files when they submit, in turn, slowing processing and review time down determining what the document is.
It is also important that the correct document type category is chosen when uploading as this type is the mechanism for the public records document retention system identification, as well as triggering some automatic processes for review based on the document type.
A helpful guide to 'How to Use the Online Portal' is located on the same site, to answer many of the questions that we receive often.
We encourage you to read and share this information with your staff and other entities who may upload on your behalf to avoid frustrations and delays.
The above mentioned documents can be found on the permit portal webpage https://www.palmcoastgov.com/eplanreview
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Holiday Closing and Reminders
June 16, 2022
City offices and services will be closed in observance of Juneteenth
Monday, June 20th
The Utility Department will have very limited staff on call. Please refrain from scheduling lot clearing and digging around infrastructure in the road right-of-way and adjacent utility easement as this could result in damage to the system and the need to call in additional staff to make repairs.
In the event this happens we will evaluate the situation and could result in a higher than usual charge to the builder and or contractor. As always we will respond to normal and routine issues and repairs as needed.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Holiday Closing and Reminders
May 26, 2022
City offices and services will be closed in observance of Memorial Day
Monday, May 30th
The Utility Department will have very limited staff on call. Please refrain from scheduling lot clearing and digging around infrastructure in the road right-of-way and adjacent utility easement as this could result in damage to the system and the need to call in additional staff to make repairs.
In the event this happens we will evaluate the situation and could result in a higher than usual charge to the builder and or contractor. As always we will respond to normal and routine issues and repairs as needed.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Swimming Pool Permitting with a Fence
May 23, 2022
The City of Coast Land Development Code 4.01.08 requires "All swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas shall be enclosed by a permanent full screen enclosure or with a permanent wall or fence of at least four feet in height".
In the past, the fence was permitted as a part of the swimming pool permit application submittal if erected simultaneously.
The City of Palm Coast no longer requires a permit for the installation of fence or performs a review, however, the property owner must complete an acknowledgement form after reading the regulations for the installation of a fence. This acknowledgement must be completed prior to the submittal of a swimming pool permit if your project will be enclosed by a fence.
The acknowledgement must be completed by the property owner and cannot be completed by the pool contractor on their behalf.
The acknowledgement can be completed online and the instructions can be found on our website at https://www.palmcoastgov.com/government/building/ownerdocumentdetails/76
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act
May 23, 2022
In Florida, drowning is the leading cause of death of young children and is also a significant cause of death for medically frail elderly persons. Adult supervision is the key to accomplishing the objective of reducing the number of submersion incidents, and when lapses in supervision occur a pool safety feature designed to deny, delay, or detect unsupervised entry to the swimming pool, spa, or hot tub will reduce drowning and near-drowning incidents. In furtherance of this initiative, the Florida Legislature enacted the "Preston de Ibern/Mckenzie Merriam Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act" in 2000. See Chapter 515, Florida Statutes.
The Legislature requires that all new residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs be equipped with at least two (2) pool safety features.
EFFECTIVE JUNE 1, 2022
In an effort to ensure a property owner understands the responsibilities of pool ownership as outlined in Florida Statutes 515, effective for swimming pools applied for on or after June 1, 2022 will require a Swimming Pool Safety Act Acknowledgement form signed by the licensed contractor and property owner.
This form can be located on our website under the swimming pool requirements on the Building Services main page or under the specific requirements for swimming pools.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
New Home Construction Right of Way Maintenance
May 17, 2022
Effective immediately, New Home Construction will be required to leave the sod in place until the Right of Way Final Grade.
The swale is to be maintained throughout the project. The following options are recommended:
-
Construction entrance with a temporary culvert a minimum of 12"
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Designated access point to reduce maintenance cost.
If a site is not in compliance, the contractor will be required to install a silt fence at the front right of way property line for the remainder of the project and maintain it.
Thank you in advance for being a good neighbor in the community.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Project Manager Notifications
A new feature has been added to the online permitting portal that will allow you to add the project manager email to a specific permit.
This will eliminate the need for the project manager's email added to ALL permits, or take the workload off of your office staff forwarding emails/notifications to the project manager.
During the packet creation, under the Applicant Info Tab, you will see an optional field for 'Project Manager Email'. This will add a specific email to a permit.
This feature is only available at the packet stage.
If you would like to remove specific emails from the contractor certificate (resulting in the project manager not receiving emails for ALL jobs and notifications connected to the contractor), please send an email to buildingdivision@palmcoastgov.com and provide an updated list of only those emails you wish to include in receiving ALL emails. Please be sure to include the contractor license # in your email. We will remove the emails and replace with your most current list.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Water Service Supply Pipe
Building inspectors have been reporting some inconsistencies regarding installation of water service supply pipe and different practices being used by different plumbing contractors. This Newsflash is intended to remind all contractors and in particular, plumbing contractors, of certain standard installation, inspection, testing and material requirements for water service supply piping under the 2020 Florida Building Code-Plumbing and Florida Building Code-Residential. All code references below are from the Florida Building Code-Plumbing.
Please remember the following:
- Water service supply pipe outside buildings is a part of the building's water supply system and is subject to visual inspection and testing prior to covering (Section 312).
- Water service supply pipe installation shall be complete under concrete slabs and other locations subject to later concealment as well as underground outside buildings.
- Water service supply pipe shall be installed, under test and ready for inspection as part of the First Rough Plumbing Inspection (Section 312).
- Water service supply pipe shall be connected to the building's water supply distribution system and under test with the building's water supply distribution system or, in cases where connection cannot be made, shall be under separate test (Section 312)
- Plastic water service supply pipe shall be under a full working pressure water test. Water service supply pipe shall may also be tested by an air pressure test of not less than 50 p.si. minimum (Section 312.5).
- Water service supply pipe hall extend to the intended water meter location but not connected to the water meter and capped for test. The entire length of the water service pipe shall be remain exposed for inspection (Section 312).
- Water service supply pipe including the full-open valve required by Section 606 shall be installed a minimum of 12 inches below the ground at all points. No part of the water service supply pipe shall be above ground (Section 305.4).
- Means of providing access to the water service supply pipe full-open valve shall be provided per Section 606.3 and access shall be provided as soon as the water service supply pipe is buried.
- Water service supply pipe that passes through a thickened / turned down edge of a monolithic foundation or other foundation type such as footing or stem-wall or similar shall be provided with a relieving arch or pipe sleeve. If a pipe sleeve is used it shall be a minimum of two pipe sizes larger than the water service supply pipe (Section 305.3).
- Water service supply pipe materials shall be identifiable and visible to the inspector at time of inspection (Section 303.1).
- Water service supply pipe materials shall conform to NSF 61 and be rated for a working pressure of 160 p.s.i. minimum (Section 605.3)
- Water service supply pipe materials shall conform to Section 605.3 and conform to the applicable material standard listed in Table 605.3.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act
April 6, 2022
In Florida, drowning is the leading cause of death of young children and is also a significant cause of death for medically frail elderly persons. Adult supervision is the key to accomplishing the objective of reducing the number of submersion incidents, and when lapses in supervision occur a pool safety feature designed to deny, delay, or detect unsupervised entry to the swimming pool, spa, or hot tub will reduce drowning and near-drowning incidents. In furtherance of this initiative, the Florida Legislature enacted the "Preston de Ibern/Mckenzie Merriam Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act" in 2000. See Chapter 515, Florida Statutes.
The Legislature requires that all new residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs be equipped with at least two (2) pool safety features.
EFFECTIVE JUNE 1, 2022
In an effort to ensure a property owner understands the responsibilities of pool ownership as outlined in Florida Statutes 515, effective for swimming pools applied for on or after June 1, 2022 will require a Swimming Pool Safety Act Acknowledgement form signed by the licensed contractor and property owner.
This form can be located on our website under the swimming pool requirements on the Building Services main page or under the specific requirements for swimming pools.
Utility Deposit Fees Deferred
March 24, 2023
The Utility Deposit will no longer be collected at the time of permit issuance for new residential construction.
The deposit will be included with the first utility bill following the issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
If you have any questions, please contact the Customer Service Department at 386-986-2360.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Community Development Office Closure
March 24, 2022
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
March 22, 2022
The Community Development Department Offices (Building, Planning & Zoning, and Code Enforcement) will be closedThursday, March 24th from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. for mandatory training. Please plan accordingly.
Common Electric Code Errors
March 4, 2022
City inspectors have recently identified some common electrical items not installed in accordance with the National Electric Code.
Please make note of the items below to avoid failed inspections and delay in construction and issuance of Certificates of Occupancy.
- NEC 2017 422.16 - Dishwasher outlets must be adjacent cabinet or hard-wired with a breaker lock. The outlets are prohibited to be located behind the dishwasher.
- NEC 2017 310.10 (D) - Service Conductors coming from the weatherhead are to be listed for direct sunlight.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
City Network Down for Maintenance Tonight
March 3, 2022
The city is experiencing issues with a main server requiring emergency maintenance. The network will not be available beginning at midnight this evening.
The network is expected to be fully operational by 4:00 a.m., however, we advise you to processes any permits, payments, and schedule inspections prior to midnight in the event the network is not available when anticipated.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Inspection Times and Coordination with Homeowners
February 8, 2022
With the increase in the number of daily inspections, the Building Inspectors are beginning their inspection routes earlier in the day (prior to 8:00 a.m.) to ensure inspections are performed within 24 hours without any roll-overs.
Currently, contractors are asking their customers to contact the Building Division after 8:00 a.m. to get a time frame for the inspector's arrival. This is resulting in occasional problems when the inspector arrives prior to 8:00 a.m. and he is unable to do the inspection.
When the inspector is assigned to an inspection, the applicant receives an email with the inspector name and contact information. We encourage you to provide us with your customers contact email and the automatic email will also be sent to your customer. You may also choose to provide the information to your customer once received, or contact the inspector and then inform the property owner of the time frame provided.
We cannot guarantee the inspector will not arrive at a jobsite prior to 8:00 a.m.
This may result in a failed inspection if he is unable to access the inspection.
Inspection Times and Coordination with Homeowners
January 19, 2022
With the increase in the number of daily inspections, the Building Inspectors are beginning their inspection routes earlier in the day to ensure inspections are performed within 24 hours without any roll-overs.
Currently, contractors are asking their customers to contact the Building Division after 8:00 a.m. to get a time frame for the inspector's arrival. This is resulting in occasional problems when the inspector arrives prior to 8:00 a.m. and he is unable to do the inspection.
When the inspector is assigned to an inspection, the applicant receives an email with the inspector name and contact information. We encourage you to provide us with your customers contact email and the automatic email will also be sent to your customer. You may also choose to provide the information to your customer once received, or contact the inspector and then inform the property owner of the time frame provided.
We cannot guarantee the inspector will not arrive at a jobsite prior to 8:00 a.m.
This may result in a failed inspection if he is unable to access the inspection.
Holiday Scheduling for Land Clearing
January 11, 2022
City offices and services will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Day:
Monday, January 17, 2022
The Utility Department will have very limited staff on call. Please refrain from scheduling lot clearing and digging around infrastructure in the road right-of-way and adjacent utility easement as this could result in damage to the system and the need to call in additional staff to make repairs.
In the event this happens we will evaluate the situation and could result in a higher than usual charge to the builder and or contractor. As always we will respond to normal and routine issues and repairs as needed.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Identification of Construction Sites
January 11, 2022
The increase of new subdivisions and numerous homes under construction without existing homes to use as landmarks, is resulting in the inspectors utilizing valuable time searching for the correct job location.
If you are building new construction where it may be difficult to identify the project location, please identify the address in a highly visible area that can be viewed from the street. Do not use the lot #, but use the address provided on the building permit.
Failure to identify the home under construction may result in an inspection failure due to the inability to locate the correct home in a timely manner.
In addition, please be reminded that local Land Development Code and Florida Building Code requires the address to be posted in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property and facing the canal if the building is located on a canal lot.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
Transportation Impact Fee Increase Reminder
UPDATED / CORRECTION
December 30, 2021
Transportation Fees will increase January 1, 2022.
City offices are closed Friday, December 31st, permit applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30th to avoid the new fee increase.
This table addresses residential construction only. For a complete list of the transportation impact fees, please visit our website.
|
|
|
Current fee |
Jan 1st |
Jan 1st total with 3% discount (if paid at permit issuance) |
|
Single Family |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$1,718 |
$1,764 |
(-52.92) $1,711.08 |
|
|
All other lots |
$3,139 |
$3,224 |
(-96.72) $3,127.28 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Duplex |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$2,666 |
$2,738 |
(-82.14) $2,655.86 |
|
|
All other lots |
$4,866 |
$4,998 |
(-149.94) $4,848.06 |
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.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Transportation Impact Fee Increase Reminder
December 29, 2021
Transportation Fees will increase January 1, 2022.
City offices are closed Friday, December 31st, permit applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30th to avoid the new fee increase.
This table addresses residential construction only. For a complete list of the transportation impact fees, please visit our website.
|
|
|
Current fee |
Jan 1st |
Jan 1st total with 3% discount (if paid at permit issuance) |
|
Single Family |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$1,718 |
$1,764 |
(-52.92) $1,711.08 |
|
|
All other lots |
$3,139 |
$3,224 |
(-96.72) $3,127.28 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Duplex |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original ITT platted lots |
$2,598 |
$2,666 |
(-79.98) $2,586.02 |
|
|
All other lots |
$4,866 |
$4,998 |
(-149.94) $4,848.06 |
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)
Holiday Scheduling for Land Clearing
December 28, 2021
Reminder - City offices and services will be closed in pbservance of the New Year, December 31st. (Friday).
The Utility Department will have very limited staff on call. Please refrain from scheduling lot clearing and digging around infrastructure in the road right-of-way and adjacent utility easement as this could result in damage to the system and the need to call in additional staff to make repairs.
In the event this happens staff will evaluate the situation and may result in a higher than usual charge to the contractor. As always we will respond to normal and routine issues and repairs as needed.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Holiday Scheduling for Land Clearing
December 17, 2021
City offices and services will be closed for the Holidays on the following days:
Christmas - December 23th & 24th
New Years -January 1st
The Utility Department will have very limited staff on call. Please refrain from scheduling lot clearing and digging around infrastructure in the road right-of-way and adjacent utility easement as this could result in damage to the system and the need to call in additional staff to make repairs.
In the event this happens staff will evaluate the situation and may result in a higher than usual charge to the contractor. As always we will respond to normal and routine issues and repairs as needed.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Online Permitting Portal Enhancement
December 14, 2021
We have added a new feature to our online portal to help you with your daily inspections.
When logging into the system, you will now see three tabs, Packet List, Permit List and Scheduled Inspections.
The Scheduled Inspection List will provide an overview of the daily inspections (linked to the account) requested for that day. When the inspection has been resulted, it will be dropped from the list.
This change was a result of feedback from a contractor who mentioned this would be a useful tool for their operations.
Many changes have been made over the past year as a result of feedback and suggestions from the Building Community and as always, we welcome your input.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Utility Services Reminder During Holiday Season
The City is closed for Thanksgiving 11/25 - 11/26 and Christmas 12/23 -12/24 and the Utility Department will have very limited staff on call.
Please refrain from scheduling lot clearing and digging around infrastructure in the road right-of-way and adjacent utility easement as this could result in damage to the system and the need to call in additional staff to make repairs. In the event this happens we will evaluate the situation and could result in a higher than usual charge to the builder and or contractor.
As always we will respond to normal and routine issues and repairs as needed.
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Online Permitting Change
November 18, 2021
Permitting projects that require square footage to be provided will soon have fields for entry online.
The change will be in the data fields under the 'dimension/values' tab. It will only appear if the permit type requires the entry. If it does not, you will not see any changes.
Instructions for data entry is attached to this notice.
Please be sure to enter all square footage assciated with your project (conditioned space, open porches, screen porches, garages).
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Storm Preparedness
November 4, 2021
The Flagler County Emergency Management has issued a Severe Weather bulletin for a Nor'easter expected to affect our area beginning tomorrow.
Please check your construction sites to ensure materials, debris and garbage are secure. 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.
NWS Bulletins in place
- A Coastal Flood Advisory in place for the intracoastal, beaches and St. Johns River basin.
- A Coastal Flood Watch is in place for coastal areas as well as areas near haw Creek and Dead Lake
- High risk of dangerous rip currents at local beaches is in place.
Nor'easter conditions are expected to arrive late tonight bringing the potential of gusts to gale force along the coast, rough surf, heavy rainfall and tidal flooding. Keep in mind that a lot of the expected conditions depends on track and strength of the low pressure system as it passes to the south. The chief concerns are localized coastal flooding, winds and heavy rainfall. Tornados and severe storms are not expected, though some thunderstorms are possible.
- Low Pressure is expected to form over the southeast Gulf of Mexico Thursday night / Friday and move across central Florida
- Strong high pressure will build north of us as the low passes to the south.
- The pressure differences between the two along with the highest King Tides of the year will combine to bring a potential of coastal flooding.
Tidal Flooding Concerns will be very localized and chiefly in the low laying areas near the Intracoastal, beaches and Haw Creek. This will NOT be like Irma or anything that that but it could approach and maybe surpass what we had in the September 2020 Nor'easter. Moderate flooding is expected again depending on storm track and timing.
- Tidal departures of 2-3 feet above normal highest tide are possible into Friday and Saturday, some higher water is possible if the storm strengthens further.
- This will likely bring some localized tidal flooding in the normal low lying areas near the Intracoastal, Pelicier Creek, Haw Creek and Bulow Creek.
- Severe beach erosion is possible as tides will allow waves to run up to and onto the dunes, surf heights of 7-10 ft or higher possible.
Critical High Tide Times in the Intracoastal at Flagler beach this will be the best chances of experiencing flooding in Flagler Beach especially in the normal trouble spots. This includes but is NOT limited to Flagler Ave especially the southern part of it in Flagler Beach, Beverly Beach along the ICW and other very low locations near the ICW.
- Friday 1417hrs
- Saturday 0236hrs
- Saturday 1509hrs
Winds will be strongest at the immediate beaches and open exposed areas depending on storm track and timing with the strongest winds likely late Friday into Saturday.
- Beaches, sustained winds of 25-30 mph will arrive on Friday increasing further on Friday Night with wind gusts 40-45 mph possible especially immediate beach front.
- Inland locations will see breezy to gusty winds and a few gusts to 35-40 mph will be possible especially in open areas.
- Some damage and power outages will be possible due to these winds especially coastal areas.
Rainfall will be heaviest at the coast again depending on storm track and timing.
- Localized heavy rainfall amounts of 3-4 inches or more are possible the heaviest rain likely Friday Night / Saturday.
- Though there is no severe weather risk, some heavy thundery downpours will be possible producing some lightning and torrential downpours
- The heaviest rain will be very localized it may be a torrential downpour at one location but a few miles away it may be dry.
Preparedness Advice. Overall this will be more of a nuisance weather event for most of us, however persons who live in the flood prone areas and coastal locations should take some preparedness actions now.
- Persons / interests near the lowest lying areas along the Intracoastal waterway should prepare and take protective actions for the potential of tidal flooding.
- Take time to secure lightweight items that may be blown about by the winds.
- There could be power disruptions take time to check batteries in flashlights etc.
Next Update - Friday
Resources for up to date and further info:
NWS Jax https://www.weather.gov/jax/
NWS Flagler Coastal Forecast: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=FLZ138
East Coast Tides: https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=8720587&legacy=1
Intracoastal Tides: https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=8720833&legacy=1
Make Sure you are signed up for Alert Flagler: http://www.flaglercounty.org/alertflagler/
Social Media Resources
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlaglerEOC
CONTRACTORS NEWSFLASH
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Construction Prior to Permit Issuance
November 3, 2021
Please be reminded, any form of construction is not to begin until a permit has been issued.
A permit that is 'ready' does not grant approval for work to begin. The permit must be 'issued'. This includes the clearing of property.
For your convenience, payments may be made anytime using the online permitting portal regardless of the type of submittal (electronic/manual).
Work beginning prior to the issuance of a permit will result in the permitting fees being charged twice and may result in action by the Code Enforcement Board or the Flagler County Licensing Board.
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.
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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.
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DESCRIPTION OF IMPROVEMENT - this should be a brief description of your project - single family residence, swimming pool, driveway, HVAC, screen enclosure, interior alterations, etc.
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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:
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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
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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
- 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.
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:
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Notice of Commencement
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Roof Nailing Affidavits
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Envelope Leakage Test
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Blower Door Test
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Termite Certificates
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Foundation surveys
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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
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Residential -$388.65 per dwelling unit
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Non-residential- $.62 per square foot
Parks Impact Fee
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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.
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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.