The short answer
- Choose the permit office from the property jurisdiction, not the mailing city or ZIP.
- A small repair price alone does not establish a permit exemption.
- List roof, fence, pool-cage and solar work separately, with approvals and closeout records.
In this guide
Choose the permit office from the property jurisdiction and describe the actual work. A Pensacola mailing address or low repair price does not settle which approval applies.
For Hurricane Isaias recovery, use the damage checklist for safe documentation before approaching damaged areas.
Find the right starting point
| Property | Start here |
|---|---|
| City of Pensacola | City Building Inspections. |
| Unincorporated Escambia County or Century | County Building Services. |
| Pensacola Beach | Santa Rosa Island Authority review before County submission. |
The City's solar guidance directs applicants to Property Appraiser records; a City of Pensacola taxing authority identifies City jurisdiction. The County says SRIA review also applies to County permit-exempt work on Pensacola Beach.
Describe the scope before asking about exemptions
Give the roof material, measured work area and whether work affects covering, underlayment, sheathing, framing, flashing or attachments. Separate a localized repair from a complete reroof.
County guidance describes a limited asphalt-shingle repair exemption where the secondary water barrier and sheathing need no repair.
Florida section 553.79 separately provides a qualifying single-family exemption below $7,500. It requires a written request with scope/value documentation; flood-hazard properties and listed electrical, plumbing, structural, mechanical and gas work are excluded. Projects cannot be divided to evade requirements.
Ask the authority to determine eligibility. The City FAQ describes its MGO Connect exemption process. Keep the written determination; price alone is not permission to proceed.
List each related trade
- Fence: location, height, repair versus replacement and the requested survey or site plan.
- Siding or pool cage: fabric-only damage versus framing, anchors or structural connections.
- Existing solar: panel or mount removal, wiring changes and reconnection.
- Roof: temporary protection, permanent assembly and concealed-condition concerns.
The City's solar guidance lists solar and electrical applications for rooftop PV. Ask how it classifies your removal-and-reinstall scope. Our existing-solar guide explains the contractor handoffs.
Keep the approval and closeout records
Emergency procedures can change. Ask which current filing deadlines and inspection stages apply before materials are concealed. Fee waivers do not waive required permits.
Save the permit or exemption determination, approved scope, responsible contractors, inspections and final approvals. Name the appropriately licensed roofing party separately from the electrical party.
Request a Pensacola assessment with the ZIP, visible roof concerns, existing solar and other affected items. UnionGrid confirms availability and helps define the scope; the authority determines the required approvals.
Sources and review date
Official sources linked above were reviewed October 21, 2026. County post-storm guidance and the 2026 statute were checked again October 21, 2026. Confirm current local instructions and the authority's determination before proceeding.
