Florida is changing the rules for smaller home projects — and if you’re moving from Minnesota to Florida, this is something you should understand before buying or remodeling a home.
Florida recently passed a new law that may eliminate permit requirements for certain residential projects valued under $7,500.
At first glance, many homeowners may think:
“Great! Less government and lower costs.”
And in some situations, that may absolutely be true.
But there are also some important details buyers, sellers, and homeowners need to understand — especially in Southwest Florida communities near the coast, flood zones, or HOA neighborhoods.
What Is Florida’s New Permit Law?
Beginning July 1, 2026, many small residential projects under $7,500 may no longer require a building permit in Florida.
The goal is to:
✅ Reduce permit delays
✅ Lower homeowner costs
✅ Help contractors complete small projects faster
✅ Reduce local government backlogs
This law mainly applies to single-family homes and certain minor residential improvements.
What Types Of Projects Might No Longer Need Permits?
Some examples being discussed include:
- Fences
- Small decks
- Storage sheds
- Minor remodeling
- Non-structural updates
- Certain exterior improvements
However…
⚠️ NOT ALL PROJECTS ARE EXEMPT ⚠️
Permits Are STILL Required For Many Items
Even if the project is under $7,500, permits are still generally required for:
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- HVAC/mechanical work
- Structural changes
- Gas lines
- Many flood-zone properties
And this is a BIG deal in Southwest Florida.
Communities in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral often have flood-zone regulations that may still trigger permit requirements.
Important Warning For Buyers & Sellers
Here’s the part many people are overlooking…
Even if a permit was NOT legally required, buyers and insurance companies may still ask questions later such as:
- Who completed the work?
- Was a licensed contractor used?
- Was the work done to code?
- Are receipts or invoices available?
- Was the property in a flood zone?
This could become especially important during:
🏠 Home inspections
🌀 Insurance underwriting
💰 Insurance claims
📋 Future home sales
Why This Matters To Midwest Buyers Moving To Florida
Many Minnesota buyers are used to a very different permitting system.
In Florida:
- Flood zones matter much more
- Insurance companies are stricter
- Wind mitigation and inspections are common
- Coastal regulations can vary by county
Just because a project was completed without a permit does NOT automatically mean something was done wrong.
But buyers should still ask questions and request documentation whenever possible.
My Recommendation As A Florida Realtor
Even if permits are no longer required for smaller projects, I still recommend homeowners keep:
✅ Contractor invoices
✅ Photos before and after
✅ Receipts
✅ Product warranties
✅ Proof contractors were licensed and insured
This documentation may help protect you later during resale or insurance situations.
Final Thoughts
This new Florida law will likely:
- Speed up small projects
- Reduce permit costs
- Help contractors move faster
But it may also create:
- More confusion for buyers
- Insurance questions
- County-by-county interpretation differences
- More importance on proper documentation
If you’re considering a move from Minnesota to Florida and want help understanding flood zones, insurance, HOAs, permitting, or the differences in Florida homeownership, I’d be happy to help.