Permits guide
Replacing exterior windows and doors in Fort Myers takes a building permit. Here's who issues it, what goes into it and what the inspector checks, so you know what your installer is doing.
Addresses inside the city limits are permitted through the City of Fort Myers. Unincorporated areas such as Iona, McGregor south of the city and Gateway go through Lee County. Either way, the application lists each opening on a floor plan, shows the Florida Product Approval for each unit and the design pressures it must meet, and marks the bedroom escape windows.
Lee County asks for a Notice of Commencement when the job is over $5,000, which most whole-house window jobs are. Your licensed installer handles the paperwork and the final inspection.
Keep the permit, product approvals and final inspection record together. Your insurer's wind mitigation inspector (Florida form OIR-B1-1802) and future buyers will both want to see them.
Florida lets homeowners pull some permits as owner-builders, but you then take on the contractor's responsibilities. With a licensed installer, the installer pulls it.
It varies with the building department's workload. Simple size-for-size replacements are usually the fastest. Your installer applies as soon as the contract is signed.
Routine repairs like slider rollers, tracks and locks generally don't. Replacing a window or door does.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change; your licensed installer and local building department have the final word.
Get a quote that includes the permit.
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