Why Getting Permits in Broward County Feels Like Pulling Teeth (and What You Can Do About It)

Whether you’re a licensed contractor trying to get a project off the ground — or a homeowner who just wants to build a deck, add a shed, or remodel your kitchen — you’ve probably discovered that pulling permits in Broward County isn’t exactly a walk in the park.

Between the different city portals, the confusing forms, and the ever-changing rules, it’s easy to feel like you need a degree in bureaucracy just to get started.

What Makes Broward Permitting So Complicated?

Here’s what most people run into:

• Every city has its own process. Broward County has over 30 municipalities, each with its own portal, permit application, and fee structure. Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines — all different systems.

• Slow response times. Some online submissions sit for weeks before review.

• Changing codes and unclear requirements. Even “simple” jobs like fence replacements or window installs can trigger extra documents or engineering letters.

• Limited guidance. Many city websites post forms, but few give step-by-step clarity on what you actually need for your project.

For contractors, it’s a scheduling nightmare. For DIYers, it’s enough to make you want to skip the permit altogether (don’t do that — the fines and stop-work orders aren’t worth it).

Quick Permit Checklist: What You Might Need in Broward County

Here’s a simple rundown to help you figure out what kind of permit your project might require. (Always double-check with your city’s Building Department before starting!)

🛠️ Common Homeowner Projects:

• Fence replacement or new fence → Fence permit

• Replacing windows or doors → Building permit (and possibly wind-load engineering)

• Adding a shed → Zoning review + building permit (size and anchoring matter)

• Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom → Building, electrical, and plumbing permits

• Installing a pool or spa → Building, electrical, and sometimes separate safety barrier permit

• Roof repair or replacement → Roofing permit

• Driveway or patio work → Engineering or paving permit, depending on materials

• New deck or addition → Full structural building permit + zoning review

Tip: If your project touches electrical, plumbing, structural work, or roofing, you almost always need a permit in Broward.

Tips to Make the Process Easier

1. Start with the city’s Building Department webpage. Each municipality posts its own permit list and requirements.

2. Call before you apply. A quick chat with a plan reviewer can save days of back-and-forth.

3. Keep everything organized. Upload plans, receipts, and engineering letters in one place.

4. Budget time for reviews. Even small permits can take a week or more to process.

5. Document everything. Save emails, take photos, and track submission dates — it’s your best defense against delays.

Coming Soon: SPS SitePro — Your Shortcut to Smarter Permitting

At SPS Group, we’ve dealt with the same headaches — from big commercial builds to small homeowner jobs. That’s why we’re developing SPS SitePro, a new digital tool designed to simplify the process for both contractors and homeowners.

With SPS SitePro, you’ll be able to:

• Quickly find which permits are needed for specific project types or municipalities

• Upload and organize your documents in one spot

• Track submissions and updates in real time

• Communicate easily with your contractor, inspector, or city reviewer

No more guessing, no more digging through multiple city websites. Just one clear, easy-to-use platform that keeps your project moving forward.

SPS SitePro is coming soon — and it’s going to take the stress out of getting permits in Broward County.