Fort Lauderdale Building Department: Permit Search & Inspections

The City of Fort Lauderdale Building Services Division (part of Development Services Department) issues all residential and commercial building permits within city limits. Whether you are building a new home, adding an ADU, remodeling, installing a pool, roof replacement, or performing commercial tenant improvements in 2026, this complete guide provides the exact micro-steps, official LauderBuild (Accela) portal links, current fees, full document checklists, inspection scheduling, owner-builder requirements, contractor registration rules, and practical insider tips that save time and avoid costly mistakes.

City of Fort Lauderdale Building Department Contact Information 2026

• Physical Address: 700 NW 19th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
• Main Phone (Development Services): (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 recommended)

Official Building Services Page: City of Fort Lauderdale Building Services

Fort Lauderdale Building Permit Search 2026

Official LauderBuild Portal (Accela): LauderBuild – Search Permits & Records

Search Steps:

1. Visit the LauderBuild portal (no login needed for basic public search).
2. Enter address, permit number, or owner name.
3. View full details, plans, fees, status, and inspection history.

Insider Tip: Search permit history before buying property or starting work — it reveals open permits, past violations, or unpermitted construction that can affect insurance or resale.

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

All new permit applications are submitted 100% online through the **LauderBuild** (Accela) portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted for new submissions. The **Easy Permit / Walk-Thru** option provides faster processing for qualifying small projects.

Official LauderBuild Portal: LauderBuild Citizen Access Portal

1. Create or log into your LauderBuild account with a valid email (all notifications arrive here).
2. For small qualifying projects: Use the Easy Permit or Walk-Thru option for faster or instant processing.
3. Start a new application and select your permit type (new construction, addition, remodel, ADU, pool, roof, commercial, etc.).
4. Enter project address, detailed scope of work, and estimated valuation.
5. Add owner and contractor information (contractor must be registered with the city).
6. Upload all required documents via the LauderBuild Plan Room (LPR) for electronic plan review.
7. Provide zoning approval, flood info, or other agency clearances if required.
8. Pay all calculated fees online.
9. Submit the application and monitor real-time status and review comments.
10. Address plan review comments and resubmit revised documents electronically.
11. Once approved, pull/print your permit card online.
12. Record the Notice of Commencement (if required) before scheduling your first inspection.

LauderBuild Plan Room (LPR) Guide: LauderBuild Plan Room Information

Fort Lauderdale Building Permit Fees 2026

• Official Fee Schedules: View All DSD Fee Schedules
• Fees are based on project valuation and type (residential vs. commercial).
• Minimum fees and technology surcharges apply.
• Work started without a permit triggers double fees plus penalties.
• Private provider options may offer discounts if disclosed early.

Fees are calculated automatically in the LauderBuild portal during application.

Required Documents Checklist (Upload via LauderBuild Plan Room)

• Completed digital application in LauderBuild
• Sealed architectural, structural, and engineering drawings
• Site plan and code analysis
• Energy calculations and Florida Building Code compliance forms
• Flood zone determination (if applicable)
• Contractor license and workers’ compensation declaration
• Owner-Builder Declaration (if applicable)
• Notice of Commencement (recorded copy when required)
• Product specifications and manufacturer data sheets

How to Schedule Fort Lauderdale Building Inspections

1. After permit issuance, log into LauderBuild.
2. Go to Schedule Inspection and select the required type (footing, framing, final, electrical, plumbing, etc.).
3. Choose preferred date (inspections typically scheduled within 1–2 business days).

Insider Tip: Schedule inspections early in the morning for better availability. Check LauderBuild after 7:30 AM on inspection day for inspector assignment and contact number. Text the inspector for access issues if needed.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder Process

Contractors must register with the City of Fort Lauderdale and provide current license information. Effective September 1, 2025, non-licensed contractors can register for minor work. Homeowners may apply as owner-builders and assume full responsibility and liability. Complete the Owner-Builder Declaration in the portal.

Local Insider Tips & Tricks Only Fort Lauderdale Applicants Know

• Use the Easy Permit / Walk-Thru option for small qualifying projects — faster processing (Walk-Thru processed next business day 8:00–9:30 AM).
• Prepare files for the LauderBuild Plan Room in advance (clearly named PDFs with cover sheet and code analysis).
• Submit complete packages the first time — incomplete submissions cause the most delays.
• Save your application as draft while waiting on zoning or other reviews.
• Schedule a kick-off appointment with the Assistant Building Official for private provider projects.
• Call (954) 828-6520 early in the morning for fastest customer service response.

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 the first inspection.

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

Yes. Complete the Owner-Builder Declaration in LauderBuild and assume full responsibility and liability.

How do I search existing building permits in Fort Lauderdale?

Use the LauderBuild portal by address or permit number.

Are all permits submitted online in Fort Lauderdale?

Yes — all new submissions must be submitted digitally through LauderBuild. Paper applications are no longer accepted for new projects.

Full Official Resources: City of Fort Lauderdale Building Services

Official Resources & Quick Links

• LauderBuild Portal – Apply & Manage Permits
• LauderBuild Plan Room (LPR) Guide
• DSD Fee Schedules
• All Permitting Forms
• General Permitting Information

This guide is updated April 2026 using only official City of Fort Lauderdale sources. Create your LauderBuild account today — it cuts application time significantly. Bookmark this page for your entire project.