We encourage our customers to submit permit information, documents  and questions via email to: Permitting@LakeWalesFL.gov

We often receive inquiries from residents as to whether or not they need a permit for various types of construction. The city building codes require a permit for any new building, addition, structure, remodeling work or demolition work. The city requires a permit so that construction plans can be reviewed and work can be inspected for compliance with all city building and zoning codes.

Checklists

The Building Division staff facilitates the permitting process through the provision of checklists and worksheets describing what is required for various types of improvements. Failure to obtain a permit will result in the homeowner or contractor being required to pay double the permit fees as a penalty for non-compliance with city building codes.

Work Requiring a Permit

All of the following require a permit:

• Air conditioner change-outs
• Awnings
• Demolition
• Driveway aprons (must be approved by Building Department and Streets Department)
• Driveways and parking pads
• Electrical services change-outs
• Exterior door or window replacement
• Fences
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Fire Suppression Hood System
• Fireplaces
• House siding
• Interior alterations and renovations
• Masonry walls
• Mobile home set-ups
• New buildings including storage buildings, boat houses, docks, greenhouses, and screen enclosures
• New electrical, plumbing, gas, and air conditioning systems
• Patios and decks
• Reroofing
• Room additions
• Signs
• Structural repairs
• Swimming pools (in-ground or above-ground) and spas
• Temporary buildings (construction, etc.)
• Temporary power poles
• Tents