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1. What is a Development Order (D.O.)?

A Development Order (D.O.) is what the City issues once your plans or requests for development have been approved by the City. The D.O. Application is filled out and submitted by the applicant at the time development plans are submitted for review.

2. What type of activity requires a Development Order (D.O.)?

Most activity involving accessory structures such as sheds; additions; demolition; lot clearing; new construction, renovations, signs, tree removal (for the construction project), and other site improvements require a D.O. Check with us to determine if one is needed for your project before you begin your project.

3. How long is a Development Order (D.O.) valid?

At the present time, the Development Order (D.O.) is valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the date it is issued by the City.

4. What should be submitted to obtain a Development Order (D.O.)?

One (1) complete set and a digital copy of Architectural, Civil plans, and Landscape Plans; a completed checklist (and all items noted on the checklist) and all local forms filled out. Incomplete packages will not be accepted for review. However, your contact person/project manager will be contacted if additional information is required by staff. All additional information must be submitted before the City issues an approved D.O.

5. How long is the review process?

Staff is allowed a 30-day review period after receiving the D.O. application and all the necessary documents for commercial and residential projects. Sign permits involve a 10-day period and may require review by the Community Redevelopment Agency and/or the Planning Board. Please note: the Department’s goal is to expedite the process so we strive to complete this process a lot sooner.

6. When do I pay the review fee?

The review fee is paid at the time the D.O. is issued. Fees include impact fees, and connection fees for potable water and sanitary sewer. Staff will notify project manager/contact when the plans are approved and will advise of the total fees, prior to pickup.

7. What if my request cannot be approved at Staff Level?

Certain types of requests may need Planning Board, and/or City Commission approval before Staff can review. Staff will assist the applicant in obtaining the proper application forms and provide information regarding application fees, meeting submission deadlines, as well as, meeting dates, and times. Planning Board application fees are paid at the time the application is submitted. Unfortunately, in most cases, these are non-refundable fees.

8. What happens after my D.O. is issued?

When the D.O. is issued, you will receive an approved development order certificate  The certificate will need to be submitted to the City’s contracted building services firm, EPCI for review. EPCI will issue a building permit once all Florida Building Code and local requirements have been met. Once a permit is approved, EPCI will return one set of the plans to you.

9. Is there a city inspection required?

Yes, in most cases. Before EPCI issues a Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.), the City shall complete an inspection for a Certificate of Acceptance (C.A.). Please allow 36 hours notice for this inspection. After notification, staff have three (3) working days to complete an inspection. Before the inspection is scheduled, a stormwater certification by the engineer of record and an inspection report for the Cross Connection & Backflow Prevention Assembly, and an As-built Survey must be submitted for review.