Highland Beach Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

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If you are planning any kind of construction, renovation, addition, deck, fence, roof replacement, pool, or other building work in the Town of Highland Beach, Florida, you will need a building permit from the Highland Beach Building Department.

Many homeowners and contractors search for clear answers about how to apply for a building permit in Highland Beach, what the fees are in 2026, and how to check the status of their application quickly.

This guide explains the entire process in simple language so you can understand what to do, what to expect, and how to avoid common problems that slow things down.

Whether you are a homeowner doing your own work or a contractor handling a larger job, the steps are the same and the goal is to get your permit approved smoothly and on time.

Highland Beach Building Department Contact Information 2026

  • Address: 3616 S Ocean Boulevard, Highland Beach, FL 33487 (Town Hall)
  • Phone: (561) 278-4540
  • Email: building@highlandbeach.us
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Official Page: Highland Beach Building Department

3616 S Ocean Boulevard, Highland Beach, FL 33487

Official Portal: Highland Beach Customer Portal (MyGovernmentOnline – MGO)

  1. Go to the Highland Beach Customer Portal (public search available for registered users).
  2. Search by property address or permit number.
  3. View the current status, approved plans, fees paid, and inspection history.

How to Apply for Highland Beach Building Permits 2026

Here is the clear step-by-step process that most people follow to get their permit approved as smoothly as possible.

  1. Go to the Highland Beach Customer Portal (MGO) and create or log into your account. Contractors must register first.
  2. Start a new application and choose the right permit type for your project.
  3. Use the Universal County-Wide/Municipal Building Permit Application (January 2024 edition or later).
  4. Upload all required drawings, site plans, specifications, and supporting documents.
  5. Pay the required fees online and submit the complete application.
  6. Check your account regularly and reply quickly if the department asks for more information or corrections.
  7. Once approved, display the permit card at the job site before any work begins.
  8. Schedule your inspections through the portal.

Highland Beach Building Permit Fees 2026

  • Official Fee Schedule Effective October 2025: Download Current Fee Schedule
  • Building permit fees are calculated per each $1,000 of valuation or portion thereof.
  • Minimum building permit fee is $100.
  • Plan review fees, technology fees, and Palm Beach County impact fees are added separately.
  • Note: Palm Beach County Impact Fees increase effective January 1, 2026 — check the latest notice.
  • Separate fees apply for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and other trade permits.
  • Work started without a permit can result in double fees plus possible fines or a Stop Work Order.

Required Documents Checklist

  • Completed Universal County-Wide/Municipal Building Permit Application
  • Detailed construction drawings and specifications
  • Site plan showing existing structures and proposed work
  • Proof of contractor license and insurance
  • Owner-Builder Affidavit if you are doing the work yourself
  • Any required trade permit applications

How to Schedule Inspections in Highland Beach

Schedule inspections through the MGO Customer Portal. Have your approved plans and the permit card ready when the inspector arrives. Re-inspection fees may apply for failed or missed inspections.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder

Contractors must register in the MGO portal and hold valid Florida licenses. Homeowners can apply as owner-builders but must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety. All new submittals and revisions must be submitted online.

Local Insider Tips That Really Help

  • All permit submittals and revisions must be done online through the MGO Customer Portal — no paper applications are accepted.
  • Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time to avoid delays in plan review.
  • Check the Impact Fee Increase Notice for January 2026 before submitting larger projects.
  • Schedule each inspection as soon as the work stage is finished so you do not lose time waiting.
  • Review the latest Florida Building Code and Town amendments before starting your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for existing building permits in Highland Beach?

Use the Highland Beach Customer Portal (MGO) by property address or permit number after logging in.

How to apply for a Highland Beach building permit?

Register in the MGO Customer Portal, complete the Universal County-Wide/Municipal Building Permit Application, upload documents, and submit everything online.

What are the Highland Beach building permit fees in 2026?

Fees are calculated per $1,000 of valuation with a minimum of $100. Plan review and Palm Beach County impact fees apply separately. Download the October 2025 fee schedule and check the January 2026 impact fee increase notice.

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

Yes. You can apply as an owner-builder, but you must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Highland Beach?

Simple projects can be approved in just a few days once the complete application is submitted. More complex jobs take longer depending on review needs.

Official Resources

Updated April 2026 using only official Town of Highland Beach sources. All submittals must be done online through the MGO Customer Portal.

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