Roof Replacement Permits & Inspections in South Florida
Replacing a roof in South Florida requires more than choosing materials and scheduling an installation date. Because the region is governed by strict building codes designed to withstand hurricanes and heavy rainfall, every new roof replacement must follow a detailed permit and inspection process. For homeowners in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Lee County, the steps may feel overwhelming, especially for first-time property owners.
This guide breaks down the entire process—what permits you need, how inspections work, what documents to prepare, and how working with licensed roofing contractors streamlines every step. Whether you are planning a full reroof or upgrading to a more resilient system like metal roofing, understanding permitting is essential for safety, compliance, and long-term home value.
Why Permits Matter for a New Roof Replacement
Every county in South Florida requires a permit for a new roof replacement because roofs are a primary line of defense against extreme weather. These permits ensure that materials, installation methods, and structural components comply with the Florida Building Code (FBC) and local wind-resistance standards.
For homeowners, compliant roof work means:
Your home meets hurricane and high-wind code requirements
You remain eligible for insurance coverage and discounts
Your new roof replacement passes future real estate inspections
Your roofing warranty remains valid
Hiring a properly licensed roofing contractor removes guesswork. Experienced professionals handle permit submissions and guarantee the project meets all county-specific requirements before inspections.
Step-by-Step Guide: Permits for New Roof Replacement
1. County Verification and Property Research
Before filing any paperwork, contractors verify your county's specific rules. South Florida jurisdictions—Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Lee—share many regulations but also have unique requirements, especially related to wind load calculations and roofing materials.
Your contractor typically evaluates:
Property address and zoning
Existing roof structure
Previous permits pulled on the home
HOA approval requirements (if applicable)
This ensures the new roof replacement design aligns with both county code and neighborhood guidelines.
2. Choosing Approved Roofing Materials
South Florida accepts only materials that meet wind uplift, fire resistance, and durability testing. To obtain a permit, contractors must submit documentation for:
Product approvals (NOA or Florida Product Approval)
Underlayment specifications
Fastening schedules
Material weight and structural compatibility
Whether you are installing shingles or upgrading to metal roofing, materials must meet county standards. Miami-Dade, in particular, enforces the strictest approval codes in the nation.
3. Preparation of Permit Application
For your new roof replacement, the contractor prepares all official forms required by the county. Permit applications generally include:
Completed roofing permit form
Contractor license and insurance
Owner affidavit (sometimes required)
Notice of Commencement (NOC) for projects over $2,500
Roof plan and measurements
Material approvals
Applications must be accurate, or the county will delay approval. Working with a certified roofing team avoids rejected or incomplete submissions.
4. Filing the Permit With the County
Depending on the county, applications may be submitted:
Online
In person
Through the contractor’s portal
Typical processing times:
Miami-Dade: 2–6 weeks depending on backlog
Broward: 1–3 weeks
Palm Beach: 1–4 weeks
Lee County: 1–3 weeks
Homeowners should plan ahead, especially during rainy season or hurricane season when new roof replacement requests peak.
Required Inspections During a New Roof Replacement
A key part of the new roof replacement process is passing mandatory inspections. Each county may vary, but most South Florida roofs require at least three inspections.
1. Dry-In Inspection
This inspection occurs after underlayment and waterproofing components are installed but before shingles or metal panels are added.
Inspectors verify:
Proper flashing installation
Correct underlayment layout
Fastening compliance
Moisture barrier integrity
This step ensures your home is protected before final materials go on.
2. In-Progress / Mid-Roof Inspection
Not all counties require this, but many do. Inspectors check:
Fastener patterns
Material approval compliance
Proper attachment of roofing layers
If the roof covers a large area or includes complex sections, additional inspections may be scheduled.
3. Final Roof Inspection
This inspection confirms that the new roof replacement:
Matches approved plans
Uses the correct materials
Has no installation defects
Meets structural and wind-load requirements
Passing the final inspection closes the permit, an essential step for insurance records and future property sales.
County-Specific Requirements in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Requires Miami-Dade NOA-approved materials
Enforces strict wind-resistant fastening patterns
Often requires additional documentation for metal roof systems
Broward County
Follows HVHZ (High Velocity Hurricane Zone) standards
Frequently requires mid-roof inspections
Some cities require additional municipal forms
Palm Beach County
Requires detailed roof plans for complex structures
Enforces wind-load engineering calculations
Some areas require HOA clearance prior to submission
Lee County
Streamlined digital permitting system
Requires flood zone verification for certain homes
Offers quicker processing outside peak storm season
Benefits of Hiring Licensed Roofing Contractors for Permits
Working with a licensed contractor experienced in new roof replacement in South Florida ensures:
Accurate permit application preparation
Fast submission through contractor portals
Correct ordering of inspections
Full compliance with state and county roofing codes
Avoidance of project delays or failed inspections
Improper or unpermitted roofing work can lead to heavy fines, insurance cancellation, forced removal of the roof, or denial of future claims.
What Homeowners Should Prepare Before Starting
To streamline your new roof replacement permitting process, homeowners should gather:
Property records
HOA approval (if needed)
Clear access to the home for inspectors
Signed authorization allowing contractors to pull permits
This preparation helps avoid unnecessary delays.
A Smooth New Roof Replacement Starts With Proper Permits
A successful new roof replacement in South Florida depends on proper planning, code-compliant materials, and a clear understanding of the required permits and inspections. While the process may seem complex, working with licensed, experienced contractors ensures your project follows every county regulation—from Miami-Dade’s strict NOA requirements to Palm Beach’s engineering standards.
By completing all required inspections and closing out permits correctly, homeowners protect their investment, maintain insurance eligibility, and gain peace of mind knowing their home is secure, compliant, and built to withstand South Florida’s unique weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a permit for a new roof replacement in South Florida?
Yes. All counties—including Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Lee—require a roof permit for any new roof replacement.
How long does it take to get roofing permits approved?
Approval times vary by county but typically range from 1 to 6 weeks. Miami-Dade usually takes the longest due to strict review processes.
Who schedules roofing inspections?
Licensed roofing contractors schedule all required inspections, including dry-in and final inspections.
Can I replace my roof without a permit?
No. Unpermitted work can result in fines, insurance issues, and forced removal of the roof.
Do different roofing materials have different permit requirements?
Yes. Metal roofing, shingles, tile, and flat roofs require specific approvals, fastener schedules, and engineering documentation.