Miami Building Department: Permit Search & Building Inspections

The City of Miami Building Department (Construction Services) 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 through the iBuild portal and ePlan system, permit search, current fees, full document checklists, inspection scheduling, owner-builder requirements, contractor registration, and practical insider tips that save time and avoid costly mistakes.

City of Miami Building Department Contact Information 2026

• Physical Address: Miami Riverside Center, 444 SW 2nd Avenue, 4th Floor, Miami, FL 33130
• Main Phone (Building Call Center): (305) 416-1100
• Email: building@miamigov.com or eplanbuilding@miamigov.com
• Building Services Manager: Eureca Coulanges – (786) 459-0205
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (public counter by appointment recommended)

Official Building Department Page: City of Miami Building Department

City of Miami Building Permit Search 2026

Official Permit Search: View Permit History / Permit Search

Search Steps:

1. Go to the View Permit History page or iBuild portal.
2. Enter address, permit number, or owner name.
3. View full details, plans, fees, status, and inspection history.

Insider Tip: Always 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 City of Miami Building Permits Online 2026 – 12 Micro-Steps

All permits are managed through the **iBuild** online platform with **ePlan** for electronic plan review. Easy Permits for small no-plan-review projects can be issued instantly.

Official iBuild Portal: Enter iBuild Portal

1. Create or log into your iBuild account with a valid email.
2. For small no-plan projects: Use the Easy Permit option and receive instant approval via email.
3. For full projects: Start a new application in iBuild and select permit type.
4. Enter project address, detailed scope of work, and estimated valuation.
5. Add owner and contractor information (contractor must be registered).
6. Upload all required documents via ePlan/ProjectDox.
7. Provide zoning approval, environmental health clearance, or other agency approvals 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 drawings electronically.
11. Once approved, pull/print your permit card online.
12. Record the Notice of Commencement (if required) before scheduling your first inspection.

Easy Permit Program: Apply for Easy Permits (Instant for Qualifying Small Projects)

City of Miami Building Permit Fees 2026

• Official Building Permit Fee Schedule: Download Full Fee Schedule
• Residential (up to 3 dwelling units): 0.50% of estimated construction cost (minimum $45 for small remodeling under $2,500).
• Commercial/Multifamily: 1% of construction cost up to $30 million, then 0.5% on the excess.
• Minimum permit fee: $110 for any building permit, shop drawing, or revision.

Fees are calculated in iBuild. Work started without a permit incurs double fees plus penalties.

Required Documents Checklist (Upload via ePlan)

• Completed digital application in iBuild
• Sealed architectural, structural, and engineering drawings
• Site plan and code analysis
• Energy calculations and Title 24 / Florida Building Code compliance forms
• Flood zone determination or environmental health clearance receipt (pools, food service, body art)
• Contractor license and workers’ compensation declaration
• Owner-Builder Acknowledgment Form (if applicable)
• Notice of Commencement (recorded copy when required)

How to Schedule City of Miami Building Inspections

1. After permit approval and pulling the permit, log into iBuild.
2. Go to Schedule a Building Inspection and select the required type.
3. Choose preferred date (inspections typically scheduled within 1–2 business days).

Insider Tip: Schedule inspections early in the morning for better availability. Check iBuild 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 in iBuild and provide valid Florida license information. Homeowners may apply as owner-builders and assume full responsibility and liability. Complete the Owner-Builder Acknowledgment Form in the portal.

Local Insider Tips & Tricks for Miami Building Permits

• Use the Easy Permit option for small no-plan-review projects — you can receive instant approval via email.
• Prepare files for ePlan in advance (clearly named PDFs with cover sheet, code analysis, north arrow, etc.).
• Submit complete packages the first time — incomplete submissions cause the most delays.
• Save your application as draft while waiting on zoning or other reviews.
• Call the Building Call Center at (305) 416-1100 early in the morning for fastest response on complex projects.

Frequently Asked Questions – City of Miami Building Permits 2026

Do I need a Notice of Commencement in Miami?

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 Acknowledgment Form in iBuild and assume full responsibility and liability.

How do I search existing building permits in Miami?

Use the View Permit History / Permit Search page or iBuild portal by address or permit number.

Is Electronic Plan Review required for all permits?

Yes for every plan-review project. Easy Permits for small no-plan projects are instant.

Official Resources & Quick Links

• iBuild Portal – Apply & Manage Permits
• ePlan / ProjectDox – Electronic Plan Review
• Building Permit Fee Schedule
• Easy Permit Program

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