The $7,500 amount is not automatic permission to skip a permit
Florida’s 2026 law created a process for certain qualifying minor residential work valued below $7,500. It does not say that every project below that price is exempt. The owner or contractor must provide the information required by the local enforcement agency, and the local jurisdiction determines whether the proposed work qualifies.
A project should not begin on the assumption that price alone controls permitting. The work type, property location, floodplain status, product approvals and affected building systems still matter.
Work that may still require permits
Structural work and regulated electrical, plumbing, mechanical or gas work may still require permits regardless of the total contract amount. Roofing, pools, shower pans or wet-area waterproofing and exterior opening work can also remain permitted based on the scope and local requirements.
Cape Coral’s guidance specifically indicates that window and door replacements requiring product approvals and anchoring remain permitted work. This is especially important for impact openings, where approved systems, attachments and inspections are part of the project—not optional paperwork.
Examples that may be considered
Depending on the exact scope and the local determination, examples may include painting, flooring or tile work that does not involve wet-area waterproofing, trim, blown attic insulation, minor nonstructural stucco repairs, certain soffit repairs and limited flatwork repairs.
These are examples for evaluation, not a promise that a specific job is exempt. Cape Coral property owners should also consider floodplain restrictions and should obtain written confirmation before proceeding without a permit.
- Do not divide one larger project into smaller contracts to fit below the threshold
- Describe the complete scope accurately
- Submit the written request and documentation required by the jurisdiction
- Wait for the local determination before treating the work as exempt
The safest next step
Before construction begins, send the property address and complete proposed scope to the applicable building department or a qualified contractor familiar with the jurisdiction. Ask whether permits, product approvals, trade permits or floodplain review apply.
Model Construction Corp can review the project and help identify the appropriate permitting path. This article is general information and is not legal advice or a substitute for a property-specific decision from the authority having jurisdiction.
Official sources
Use these primary sources to verify current requirements and local guidance for the property.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Is every Florida residential project under $7,500 permit-exempt?
No. The amount is only one part of a limited process. The work must qualify, documentation must be provided and the local jurisdiction makes the determination.
Can I split a larger project into several smaller jobs?
No. A project should not be artificially divided to avoid permitting requirements.
Are impact windows permit-exempt under the new rule?
Cape Coral guidance says window and door replacements that require product approvals and anchoring remain permitted work.
Who makes the final decision?
The local enforcement agency or authority having jurisdiction determines whether the specific proposed work qualifies.