City Of Fort Lauderdale Building Department: Permit Search Guide

The City of Fort Lauderdale Building Services Division handles all residential and commercial building permits inside city limits. This 2026 guide gives you the exact micro-steps for applying through the LauderBuild (Accela) portal, permit search, current fees, required documents, inspection scheduling, owner-builder process, contractor registration, and practical insider tips that homeowners and contractors actually use to avoid delays and extra costs.

City of Fort Lauderdale Building Department Contact Information 2026

• Physical Address: 700 NW 19th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
• Main Phone: (954) 828-6520
• Building Official: John Travers – (954) 828-5913
• Email: building@fortlauderdale.gov
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (public counter by appointment strongly recommended)

Official Building Services Page: City of Fort Lauderdale Building Services

Fort Lauderdale Building Permit Search 2026

Official LauderBuild Portal: LauderBuild Citizen Access – Search Permits

Search Steps:

1. Go to the LauderBuild portal (no login needed for public search).
2. Enter address, permit number, or owner name.
3. Click any result to view plans, fees, status, and inspection history.

How to Apply for Fort Lauderdale Building Permits Online 2026 – 12 Micro-Steps

All new permits are submitted 100% online through LauderBuild (Accela). Easy Permit and Walk-Thru options exist for qualifying small projects.

Official Portal: LauderBuild Portal

1. Create or log into your LauderBuild account.
2. For small projects: Use Easy Permit for instant or next-day approval.
3. Start new application and select permit type (new home, addition, remodel, ADU, pool, roof, commercial, etc.).
4. Enter job address, scope of work, and estimated valuation.
5. Add owner and contractor details (contractor must be registered).
6. Upload documents via LauderBuild Plan Room (LPR).
7. Pay fees online (calculated automatically).
8. Submit and monitor status in real time.
9. Address plan review comments and resubmit electronically.
10. Once approved, pull/print your permit card.
11. Record Notice of Commencement (if required) before first inspection.
12. Schedule inspections in LauderBuild.

Fort Lauderdale Building Permit Fees 2026

• Fee Schedules: All DSD Fee Schedules
• Fees are valuation-based with minimum charges and technology surcharges.
• Work started without a permit incurs double fees plus penalties.

Required Documents Checklist (Upload via LauderBuild Plan Room)

• Digital application in LauderBuild
• Sealed architectural & structural drawings
• Site plan and code analysis
• Energy calculations & Florida Building Code forms
• Flood zone information (if applicable)
• Contractor license & insurance
• Owner-Builder Declaration (if applicable)
• Notice of Commencement (recorded when required)

How to Schedule Fort Lauderdale Building Inspections

1. After permit is issued, log into LauderBuild.
2. Select “Schedule Inspection” and choose inspection type.
3. Pick preferred date (usually 1–2 business days).

Insider Tip: Check LauderBuild after 7:30 AM on inspection day for inspector assignment. Text the inspector gate codes or access instructions to avoid delays.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder Process

Contractors must be registered with the City of Fort Lauderdale. Homeowners can apply as owner-builders and assume full liability. Complete the Owner-Builder Declaration in LauderBuild.

Local Insider Tips & Tricks for Fort Lauderdale Permits

• Use Easy Permit for small no-plan projects — often approved same or next day.
• Prepare files for LauderBuild Plan Room in advance with clear naming.
• Submit complete packages the first time to avoid delays.
• Save application as draft while waiting for zoning or other clearances.
• Call (954) 828-6520 early morning for fastest service.

Frequently Asked Questions – Fort Lauderdale Building Permits 2026

Do I need a Notice of Commencement in Fort Lauderdale?

Yes — required for most projects above certain valuation thresholds. Must be recorded before first inspection.

Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder?

Yes. Complete the Owner-Builder Declaration in LauderBuild.

How do I search existing permits?

Use the LauderBuild portal by address or permit number.

Are all permits submitted online?

Yes — all new submissions must be submitted digitally through LauderBuild.

Official Resources & Quick Links

• LauderBuild Portal
• Fee Schedules
• Building Services Homepage

This guide is updated April 2026 using only official City of Fort Lauderdale sources. Create your LauderBuild account today to begin your project. Bookmark this page for reference.