We often receive inquiries from residents as to whether or not they need a permit for various types of construction. The city building codes require a permit for any new building, addition, structure, remodeling work or demolition work. The City requires a permit so that construction plans can be reviewed and work can be inspected for compliance with all city building and zoning codes.

All of the following require a permit:

• New buildings including storage buildings, boat houses, docks, greenhouses and screen enclosures
• Temporary buildings (construction, etc.)
• Demolition
• Mobile home set-ups
• Tents
• Masonry walls
• Fences
• Signs
• Awnings
• Swimming pools (in-ground or above-ground) and spas
• Patios and decks
• Room additions
• Driveway aprons (must be approved by Building Department and Streets Department)
• Driveways and parking pads
• Re-roofing
• Exterior door or window replacement
• Interior alterations and renovations
• Structural repairs
• House siding
• New electrical, plumbing, gas and air-conditioning systems
• Electrical services change-outs
• Air conditioner change-outs
• Temporary power poles
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Fireplaces
• Fire Suppression Hood System

The staff of the Permits & Inspections Department facilitates the permitting process through the provision of checklists and worksheets describing what is required for various types of improvements. Failure to obtain a permit will result in the homeowner or contractor being required to pay double the permit fees as a penalty for non-compliance with city building codes.

If you are uncertain whether a building permit is required, please contact the Permits & Inspections Department at (863) 678-4182 ext. 714.

To obtain a building permit, visit the Permits & Inspections Department located in the Municipal Administration Building, 201 W. Central Avenue, Lake Wales, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.