New Residential Permit Exemptions under Florida House Bill 803

City of Gulfport Announces New Residential Permit Exemptions under Florida House Bill 803

The City of Gulfport is informing residents and contractors of new permit exemption provisions established under Florida House Bill (HB) 803, signed into law on May 7, 2026, and effective July 1, 2026.

The legislation creates limited permit exemptions for certain construction projects at single-family residences and establishes exemption requirements for temporary flood barrier installations. While some qualifying projects may no longer require a building permit, property owners and contractors must obtain approval from the Building Official before proceeding with exempt work.

Residential Construction Permit Exemptions

Under HB 803, certain non-structural residential construction projects with a total value of less than $7,500 may qualify for a permit exemption. However, the exemption does not apply to:

• Properties located in a flood zone or flood hazard area
• Electrical work
• Plumbing work
• Mechanical work
• Gas work
• Structural work, including:
• Window and door replacements
• Roofing
• Soffits
• All structural modifications

State law also prohibits dividing a larger project into multiple smaller projects to avoid permitting requirements.

To qualify for the exemption, applicants must submit a written request to the City’s Building Official along with documentation describing the proposed work, copy of signed contract including an itemized cost breakdown.

Temporary Flood Barrier Exemptions

HB 803 also establishes a permit exemption for certain temporary flood barriers installed at single-family homes, two-family dwellings, and townhouses. To qualify, the barrier must be non-load-bearing, uninhabitable, installed by a properly licensed contractor, and comply with applicable zoning, drainage, easement, and setback requirements.

Properties located wholly or partially within a flood hazard area are not eligible for this exemption.

Applicants seeking a flood barrier exemption must submit a written request, contractor documentation, and plans identifying the location and type of barrier being installed.

Documentation Required On-Site

For all approved exemptions, a copy of the exemption request stamped and approved by the Building Official must remain on-site throughout construction and be available for review by Code Enforcement personnel. Failure to maintain the approved exemption documentation on-site may result in the issuance of a Stop Work Order.

Important Notice

Work performed under an approved permit exemption will not be inspected by City staff. Property owners and contractors are responsible for ensuring all exempt work complies with applicable laws, regulations, and building standards.

Residents and contractors seeking additional information or exemption request forms are encouraged to contact the City of Gulfport Building Division at (727)893-1024 or email gpreview@mygulfport.us.