Move From iBuild Application to ProjectDox Approval, Inspection and Final Certificate
City of Miami permitting uses two connected systems: start the application and manage the permit in iBuild, then upload and revise drawings in ProjectDox after the process number and upfront payment are complete.
This guide shows the correct jurisdiction check, portal sequence, file rules, 2026 residential fast-track options, inspection scheduling, permit status reports and final CO/CC closeout without generic estimates or unnecessary filler.
Choose the Exact City of Miami Task
City of Miami, Miami-Dade County or Another Municipality?
Use the City of Miami process when
- The property is inside City of Miami municipal boundaries.
- City property and zoning tools return the address.
- iBuild recognizes the project address.
- The permit concerns City of Miami building, zoning or public-works authority.
Verify before applying when
- The mailing address says Miami but the parcel is in unincorporated Miami-Dade.
- The site is in Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Doral, Hialeah or another municipality.
- The address lies near a municipal boundary.
- The project includes county DERM, county roadway or another outside review.
City of Miami Building Department Contact Information
Which City of Miami Permit Path Fits the Project?
Project | Start with | Prepare | Extra review to check |
|---|---|---|---|
New building, addition or structural alteration | Full iBuild application | Complete plans, survey/site information, valuation, design professionals and contractors | Zoning, floodplain, Public Works, Fire, DERM, trees and historic review |
Roof, windows or exterior doors | Building permit | Scope, product approvals, wind information, valuation and contractor | Walk-Thru Express eligibility; historic property restrictions |
Kitchen or bathroom remodel | Residential alteration | Existing/proposed plans and electrical, plumbing or mechanical scope | Walk-Thru Express or Homeowner Express; structural changes |
AC change-out, minor electrical or plumbing | Easy Permit check | Qualified contractor, license, scope and equipment information | Cannot be tied to an active master permit |
Fence or driveway | Building / Public Works path | Survey, dimensions, location, materials and site access | Zoning, right-of-way, utilities, archaeology and structural review |
Pool or excavation | Full permit and site review | Survey, structural plans, barrier, electrical and drainage information | Flood, archaeological Certificate to Dig and historic review |
Commercial tenant improvement | Commercial permit | Use, occupant load, accessibility, life safety, MEP and valuation | Fire, DERM, Certificate of Use, zoning and CO/CC |
Sign | Sign permit path | Dimensions, location, height, illumination and mounting | Miami sign code, zoning and historic property rules |
Tree removal or construction near trees | Tree permit review | Tree survey, species, size, location and protection plan | New-construction tree bond and right-of-way tree rules |
Expired or unfinished permit | Extension or completion request | Permit number, history, remaining work and inspection status | Active permits use extension; expired permits use completion process |
Start the Permit in iBuild Before Uploading Plans
Create the iBuild account
Use a working email address. The account will be used for application management, status searches, contractor changes, fees and inspection services.
Confirm the address and property constraints
Check city jurisdiction, Miami 21 zoning, flood zone, historic designation and archaeological layers before finalizing the scope.
Choose the correct permit or additional-plan route
Use the Permit Catalog and enter the complete building and trade scope. Work associated with an active master application should not be separated into an Easy Permit.
Enter owner, contractor, valuation and project details
Make the application description, plans, construction value, contractor information and proposed use consistent.
Pay the applicable upfront fee
Plans cannot enter ProjectDox review until the permit application exists and applicable upfront fees are paid.
Save the process number and upload-task email
The process number links iBuild and ProjectDox. Keep the email from eplans@miamigov.com containing the Applicant Upload Task.
Do not treat approval as permit issuance
After plan approval, complete contractor and fee requirements, then pull and print the permit card. The permit is not issued until required fees are paid and the permit card is printed.
ProjectDox File Rules That Prevent Prescreen Rejection
Drawing-file rules
- Each drawing sheet is a separate file
- Use the City standard naming convention
- Keep the same file name for revised sheets
- Upload plans to the Drawings folder
- Upload supporting material to Documents
- Check every file before submission
Blank upper-right stamp area
- 8.5 × 11 sheet: 2 × 2 inches
- 11 × 17 sheet: 3 × 3 inches
- 24 × 36 sheet: 4.5 × 4.5 inches
- 30 × 42 sheet: 4.5 × 4.5 inches
- 36 × 48 sheet: 4.5 × 4.5 inches
Accept the Applicant Upload Task
Open the task, search by project number or name and accept the assigned upload task before adding files.
Upload all drawings and documents
Add drawing sheets individually and place other documents in the correct folder. The system allows multiple files per upload.
Complete the task after uploading
Reopen the Applicant Upload e-form, confirm that all required files are uploaded and named correctly, then complete the task.
Respond to changemarks using versions
When corrections are required, replace each requested sheet using the exact original file name. ProjectDox recognizes it as a new version.
Use the Correct Fast-Track Option
Walk-Thru Express
Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–12:30 PM at Miami Riverside Center for eligible residential projects.
Examples include fences, driveways, windows and doors, roofing, kitchen/bath remodels, minor repairs and MEP work.
Homeowner Express Review
Uses prescreening followed by same-day discipline review when the homeowner’s eligible submission is complete and code-compliant.
Easy Permit
For qualified contractors in good standing performing small work that does not require plan review.
Typical examples include AC change-outs, small electrical repairs, minor plumbing, portable toilets and bathroom-sink change-outs.
Under $7,500 Does Not Automatically Mean No Permit
Potentially eligible
- Qualifying residential work valued below $7,500
- Written request with scope and value documentation
- Work that is not divided into smaller projects
- City approval before relying on the exemption
Not covered by the exemption
- Property partly or entirely in a flood hazard area
- Electrical work
- Plumbing work
- Structural work
- Mechanical work
- Gas work
Track the Permit in iBuild and ProjectDox
Use iBuild for the permit record
- Open Manage Application.
- Select Global Inquiry or Search Process Number.
- Enter process number, permit number or address.
- Open the General tab for Plan Status.
- Check Plan History, Review Status and Event tabs.
- Run Workflow Routing Slip or Review Comments reports.
Use ProjectDox for plan-review detail
- Log into ProjectDox.
- Locate the project row.
- Review each discipline status.
- Open changemarks and review comments.
- Download the routing slip or review-detail report.
- Wait for a resubmit task before replacing files.
Find Permit History, Inspection Records and Microfilm
Search the current permit history first
Use iBuild Global Inquiry with the permit/process number or address. Check all related master and sub-permits.
Review inspection history
Open the relevant permit and review inspection results, required inspections and final status.
Request digital microfilm records
The City provides older building records digitally. Use the official records request for plans or permits not visible in the current online record.
Verify final status before a sale
A permit number alone is not proof of closure. Check final inspections, contractor changes, revisions and required CO/CC certificates.
Schedule, Track and Pass City of Miami Inspections
Use the correct permit or sub-permit number
A plumbing inspection needs the plumbing sub-permit number; roofing needs the roofing permit number. A master permit may cover all inspections when structured that way.
Request online or call 311
In iBuild, select Inspections and then Schedule an Inspection. The City allows requests up to five days in advance and says inspections usually occur the next day.
Confirm the inspection date
Save the confirmation. Verify the address, inspection type, access notes and contact information.
Track the inspector on inspection day
After the inspection is approved and scheduled, use the route tool to see the inspector’s route, appointments ahead and approximate arrival.
Keep work and approved plans ready
Do not cover work that requires inspection. Provide safe access, the permit card and City-stamped plans.
Correct and reschedule when failed
The inspector provides correction information. Complete every item, then repeat the scheduling process.
How City of Miami Building Permit Fees Are Built
Building permit line
The published schedule includes a building-permit charge based on 2.5% of construction cost, with a stated $57 minimum and $10,500 maximum for that line.
Upfront / dry-run fees
Upfront fees are collected when the process number is issued. The official schedule says 80% of that amount is credited toward the building-permit fee when issued.
Other charges
Trade permits, plan review, reworks after the second review, revisions, expedited review, certificates, enforcement and other project-specific charges can apply.
Keep the Correct Professional Attached to the Permit
Contractor registration
The company and qualifier must be registered with the City of Miami before they can be added to the permit.
Add or change contractor
Use iBuild’s Add/Change Contractor option, enter the process number, select the company, download the form, sign and notarize it, then upload it to ProjectDox.
Owner-builder
Owner-builder status can create direct responsibility for supervision, compliance, workers and inspections. Read the City instructions before applying under the exemption.
Check Flood, Historic, Archaeological and Tree Requirements Early
Flood
New construction and substantial improvements in a flood zone may require elevation and floodplain documents.
Historic property
Exterior work, demolition and alterations may require Historic Preservation approval before or alongside the building permit.
Archaeological area
Excavation for foundations, pools, pipelines or fences may require a Certificate to Dig before permit approval.
Trees
Tree removal, relocation and protection can require separate permits, surveys or bonds during construction.
Active Permit Extension vs. Expired Permit Completion
Active permit
The City allows one extension request before expiration. The published process says the extension is for 180 days from the request date to complete work and final inspections.
Expired permit
Use the Permit Completion process rather than an extension. Gather the permit number, outstanding inspection list, approved plans and current contractor information.
Finish With the Correct CO or CC
Certificate | Used for | Before requesting |
|---|---|---|
Certificate of Occupancy (CO) | New construction or a change of use | Permit final, all final inspections approved, revisions and contractor requests complete |
Certificate of Completion (CC) | Remodels, renovations and shell buildings | Permit final, all required inspections and closeout items completed |
Temporary CO / CC | Limited temporary occupancy or completion when City requirements are met | Outstanding work must fit the City’s temporary-certificate conditions |
What to Say When You Contact the City
“I am planning work at [full address and folio]. Can you confirm that the property is inside the City of Miami and identify the building, zoning, flood, historic or Public Works approvals required?”
“My process number is [number] for [address]. The ProjectDox status shows [status/task]. Can you confirm whether the issue is file naming, an incomplete upload task, missing discipline documents or project access?”
“I need the [inspection type] for permit/sub-permit [number] at [address]. The required prior inspection passed, the work remains visible and the site contact is [name and phone].”
“Permit [number] at [address] is not final. Can you identify the outstanding inspection, revision, contractor request, fee or related sub-permit preventing closure?”
Do Not Consider the Miami Project Complete Until These Are Confirmed
- City jurisdiction confirmed
- Zoning and property layers checked
- Flood, historic and archaeology reviewed
- Correct permit route selected
- iBuild application submitted
- Upfront fee paid
- ProjectDox task completed
- All discipline comments resolved
- Contractor correctly attached
- Permit pulled and card printed
- Approved plans kept on site
- Inspections requested in sequence
- All sub-permits finaled
- Why Not Final cleared
- CO or CC printed when required
- Final records saved
City of Miami Building Department Map
Open the Correct City of Miami Permit Resource
City of Miami Building Permit FAQs
What is the difference between iBuild and ProjectDox?
iBuild is used to start and manage the permit application, search status, manage contractors, pay fees and request inspections. ProjectDox is used to upload drawings and documents, receive review tasks, view changemarks and submit revised plan versions.
Where do I apply for a City of Miami building permit?
Start the building-permit application in the official iBuild portal. After the process number is created and required upfront fees are paid, use the ProjectDox Applicant Upload Task to submit plans and supporting documents.
How do I check a City of Miami permit status?
Use iBuild Global Inquiry or Search Process Number for the overall permit record. Check General, Plan History, Review Status and Event tabs. Use ProjectDox for discipline-level review status, changemarks and routing reports.
How do I schedule a City of Miami inspection?
Use iBuild, select Inspections and then Schedule an Inspection. Enter the correct permit or sub-permit number. The City allows requests up to five days in advance and says inspections usually occur the next day.
Can I track the Miami building inspector?
Yes. After the inspection has been approved and scheduled, the City’s route tool can show the inspector’s route, the number of appointments ahead and an approximate arrival time.
What is an Easy Permit?
Easy Permit Request allows qualified contractors in good standing to obtain permits for small work that does not require plan review. The work cannot be associated with an active master building-permit application.
Which projects may qualify for Same Day–No Delay review?
Eligible residential examples include fences, driveways, windows and doors, roofing, kitchen or bathroom remodels, minor repairs and certain MEP work. Historic properties, open code violations, after-the-fact work and projects requiring structural review may not qualify.
Does work under $7,500 automatically avoid a permit?
No. The 2026 exemption requires a written request and City approval. It does not apply to flood-hazard properties or electrical, plumbing, structural, mechanical or gas work, and it does not remove other departmental approvals.
What is the difference between a CO and a CC?
A Certificate of Occupancy is generally used for new construction or a change of use. A Certificate of Completion is generally used for remodels, renovations and shell buildings. The iBuild permit record indicates which certificate is required.
What should I do when a City of Miami permit expires?
An active permit may qualify for one 180-day extension requested before expiration. An expired permit uses the Permit Completion process. Check the permit history and outstanding inspections before choosing the request.
Source and Accuracy Note
Building-Department.org is an independent informational guide and is not the City of Miami. Applications, exemptions, plan reviews, payments, inspections, certificates, zoning decisions and enforcement must be completed through the City or the correct outside agency.
This guide was rebuilt from current City of Miami Building Department, iBuild, ProjectDox, inspection, fee, records, GIS, CO/CC, fast-track and 2026 legislative-update resources.
Last reviewed: July 23, 2026.
Portal behavior, forms, fees, staff, code rules and eligibility can change. Confirm time-sensitive details before paying, submitting plans, attending walk-through review or starting work.
Khushboo Bobade is a public records researcher and editorial writer specializing in government service documentation and construction permit systems.
Her research focuses on explaining building permits, inspection procedures, zoning regulations, and public permit records maintained by local government building departments across the United States.
Professional profile: View LinkedIn Profile
Check Permit Type, Estimate Fees, Prepare Inspections and Find Official Building Department Links
Use this free tool before applying for a building permit, booking an inspection, checking zoning rules, or searching permit records. It helps homeowners, contractors, landlords, buyers, and business owners understand the next step before visiting the official building department portal.
What building department task do you need help with?
Choose your goal. The tool will suggest the right next step, what to prepare, and which official page to check.
Before starting work, check whether your project needs building, zoning, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, right-of-way, or HOA approval.
Many portals require contractor registration, license details, insurance, plans, owner authorization, and inspection scheduling access.
Building Permit Type Finder
Select the project type to understand which permits or reviews are commonly required. Always confirm with the official local building department.
Permit Fee Estimate Calculator
Estimate a rough permit fee using project value and common percentage-based review assumptions. Local minimum fees, technology fees, impact fees, reinspection fees, and trade fees can change the final amount.
Inspection Readiness Checklist
Use this before scheduling framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, final, or certificate-related inspections.
Zoning and Setback Pre-check
Use this before applying for a permit when your project may affect land use, setbacks, lot coverage, height, parking, signs, fences, accessory structures, or business use.
Plan Review Timeline Estimator
Estimate how complex your review may be. Local staffing, incomplete plans, corrections, holidays, fire review, zoning review, and outside agency review can change timing.
Permit Records Search Helper
Use this if you are trying to find old permits, inspection history, certificate of occupancy details, open permits, or code-related records.
Official Building Department Resource Finder
Enter city/county and state to create safe searches for official permit portals, inspection scheduling, building codes, zoning maps, forms, fees, and contact pages.
Building Department vs Planning/Zoning
- Building Department: permits, plan review, inspections, code compliance, certificates.
- Planning/Zoning: land use, setbacks, height, lot coverage, signs, parking, variances.
Best sitewide placement
Place this tool after the first main guide section or before FAQs. It turns a normal article into a practical permit-preparation page.
Important note
This tool gives educational guidance only. Final permit requirements, fees, inspections, forms, and deadlines must be confirmed with the official local building department.