Pembroke Pines UPDATE

By Mayor Frank C. Ortis

Dear Readers:

As we begin entering the summer months and thoughts move towards to-do lists that have been put off during the holidays and first months of the year, it’s important to know what projects need or don’t need permits to proceed. I thought now would be a good time to share some helpful information. A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, move, remove, or demolish, any building, structure or any part thereof. Typical household projects which require a building permit include, but are not limited to the installation of pools, screen enclosures, sheds, fences, carports, driveways, patios, plumbing (new and existing), electrical (new and existing), water heaters, toilets or replacement of air conditioning units. Exterior home repairs such as the replacement of windows, doors, siding, or a new roof require building permits as well.

Obtaining a building permit is the first step required to start work on a project. Following the permit process allows experienced personnel to ensure a project meets the established code and safety requirements. It also provides peace of mind for homeowners, as licenses and insurance are verified for the selected contractor before work begins. While the work is being done, a building permit guarantees oversight of the contractor’s work while following Florida Building Code. Please note that working without a permit may result in code violations or potential fines. Trying to obtain an after the fact building permit may be challenging and could result in increased permit fees. Failure to attain proper building permits may also impact insurance coverage for your home and ultimately affect the ability for you to sell your home in the future.

The City of Pembroke Pines Building Department enforces the Florida Building Code, 7th Edition (2020) and related regulations. A permit is typically not required for general maintenance of a home such as painting or resurfacing a floor. If there are any doubts as to whether a permit might be required for work within your home, please contact the City of Pembroke Pines Building Department at 954-435-6502 before you begin the job or visit: https://www.ppines.com/164/Building-Department.

On a more fun note, the Mayor’s Annual Chess Challenge is being held on Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Pembroke Lakes Golf Club 19 Restaurant, located at 10500 Taft Street. This is the last chess challenge being held throughout Broward County as part of a free and friendly series of chess meet-ups in over 19 different cities created to draw attention to the benefits of chess in both the academic environment and in our community. For more information, please visit www.ppines.com/specialevents.

And, all are invited to our Memorial Day Observance on Monday, May 29, 2023, to honor our country’s men and women who have died in the military. It will begin at 9 a.m. at Fletcher Park, located at 7900 Johnson Street. For more information, please visit the city’s website at www.ppines.com.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 954-450-1020, or by email at fortis@ppines.com.