Florida Multifamily Permitting Timeline Explained
Updated: 5 days ago
Why Choose JRH Engineering
Why Developers, Contractors & Property Owners Choose JRH
Most engineering firms talk about technical capability.
We focus on what actually matters to your project: speed, cost, communication, and results.
Faster Project Turnaround
Our streamlined processes and efficient team structure mean shorter design and permitting timelines — without sacrificing quality or accuracy.
Clear & Responsive Communication
You work directly with engineers who keep you informed.
No long delays or unanswered emails — just straightforward updates and quick responses.
Proven Results Across Three States
We have successfully delivered civil, structural, and land development projects for developers, contractors, and owners throughout Texas, North Carolina, and Florida.
Check out JRH’s case studies.
Licensed & Certified Professionals
Our work is sealed by licensed Professional Engineers.
JRH Engineering is also a certified Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB / WBE) and HUB eligible.
How Long Does Multifamily Permitting Take in Florida?
Florida apartment permitting time depends on the site, the jurisdiction and how complete the first submittal is.
Understanding each phase, and the review deadlines state law sets, helps owners plan a realistic schedule.
JRH Engineering is a Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer and Land Development firm serving Texas, North Carolina and Florida, with an office in Orlando.
JRH guiding principles are: Engineering Excellence. Delivered on Time. Built on Value.
Phase 1: Before You Submit
Confirm zoning and land use allow multifamily at the density you need
Get the local submittal checklist and hold a pre-application meeting
Screen the site for stormwater, utilities, wetlands, state road access and FEMA flood zones
Phase 2: Local Site Plan Review
Reviewers check density, setbacks, stormwater, utilities, fire access, landscaping and parking.
Expect at least one comment round. Coordinated civil and structural plans help avoid extra cycles.
Phase 3: State and Regional Permits
Environmental Resource Permit: most stormwater systems need one from FDEP or a water management district; updated rules apply to applications deemed complete after December 28, 2025
Construction stormwater: sites disturbing 1 acre or more need permit coverage, with the notice of intent filed at least 2 days before construction
FDOT: access to a state road needs FDOT approval
FEMA: some flood zone sites need a map amendment or revision
Submit state permits alongside local review rather than waiting for site plan approval.
Phase 4: Building Permit Review
Under Section 553.792, Florida Statutes, local governments must act on a complete building permit application for multifamily projects of up to 50 units within 60 business days.
The jurisdiction has 5 business days to identify missing information, or the application is deemed complete.
Structural plans must meet the Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023), which remains in effect until the 9th Edition takes effect.
Project: Oleander on Broadway, Galveston, TX
This Texas project shows the coastal multifamily civil design Florida sites also need.
350 residential units with commercial space on 9.8 acres in Galveston
Read the full Oleander on Broadway case study
Challenges
No storm sewer outfall was available on the island site
Objectives
Manage stormwater within the site.
Deliver a complete civil package for a large residential development.
Solutions JRH Engineering Provided
Civil engineering building pads, grading, drainage and two public roads
A bioswale detention pond system using the site’s sandy, permeable soil
Results:
Remote outfall connection eliminated
City of Galveston drainage requirements met within the site
Permitting Resources for Florida, Texas and North Carolina
Florida
Texas
North Carolina
See the NC Stormwater Design Manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Florida have to review a multifamily building permit?
Up to 60 business days for projects of up to 50 units, once the application is complete.
What if the jurisdiction does not flag missing information?
If it does not respond within 5 business days, the application is deemed complete.
Who issues Environmental Resource Permits?
FDEP or one of Florida’s water management districts.
Should state permits wait for local approval?
No, submitting them alongside local review saves time.
Which building code applies?
The Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023), until the 9th Edition takes effect.
Does JRH Engineering obtain building permits?
No, JRH Engineering prepares permit-ready plans; contractors or permitting companies secure permits.
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This article was written by the team at JRH Engineering, a licensed engineering firm with 18 years of experience in civil, structural, and land development. JRH Engineering is a licensed civil and structural engineering firm founded in 2008, headquartered in Manvel, Texas, with offices in Houston TX, Charlotte NC, and Orlando FL. Certified WBE, WOSB, and HUB-eligible. Phone: (800) 227-9635 | sales@jrhengineering.net | jrhengineering.net. Texas PE license is F-10385. North Carolina PE license is P-3118. Florida license is 38516.
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