City of Tampa · Florida · 2026
Search Tampa Building Permits Like a Pro – Before Closing, Insurance, or a Stop‑Work Order
One overlooked open permit or unfinaled hurricane‑related repair can stop a closing cold, scare off lenders, or cause your insurance company to cancel coverage. Tampa has a robust Accela Citizen Access portal and recently launched Permit Navigator (PermitNav) to simplify the pre‑application process – so a quick permit search can save you thousands.
This guide walks you through the exact systems the city staff use: the Accela Citizen Access portal, the Permit Navigator tool, and the public records request process. No paid services. No guesswork. Just a clear path to find every permit tied to any address – usually in under five minutes.
Primary task
Search the Correct Tampa Building Permit
Start with the strongest identifier you already know. A permit number is best for an exact match. An address is usually easiest for a homeowner. If you have a Hillsborough County folio number, use it – it’s the most accurate identifier.
Open the Accela Citizen Access portal
Visit aca-prod.accela.com/TAMPA. The City of Tampa uses Accela for all permitting services.
Type the address with quotation marks
On the Home screen, click into the Search Bar and type the address in quotation marks. For example: “1400 N Boulevard”. This returns the most precise results.
Click Search or hit Enter
All available information will populate on the screen. Search results can be organized by selecting the menu option on the right side of the screen.
Select Building from the drop‑down menu
To view permits specifically, select “Building” from the drop‑down menu. This filters out planning, zoning, and enforcement records.
Open the full permit record
Click on any permit to view the complete record – including status, issue date, expiration, inspection history, and any notes from the building official.
Use the City of Tampa’s official Accela portal for current records.
Three ways to access
Tampa’s Permit Portals – Which One Should You Use?
The City of Tampa offers three primary ways to access permit information. Choose the method that matches your needs.
🏗️ Accela Citizen Access
Best for: Searching permits, applying online, scheduling inspections, and tracking reviews
The City of Tampa uses Accela for all permitting services – available 24/7. You do not need an account to search public records.
Direct link: aca-prod.accela.com/TAMPA
🧭 Permit Navigator (PermitNav)
Best for: First‑time applicants who don’t know which permit they need
Launched in 2024, PermitNav is a user‑friendly tool that takes you through a series of questions to identify exactly which permits your project requires. “PermitNav is their personal, online, permit specialist”.
Direct link: tampa.gov/permitnav
📋 Public Records Request
Best for: Complete permit files, old records (more than 7 years), or when online search fails
Contact the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100 or visit 2555 E. Hanna Ave, Tampa, FL 33610. Records are available online at tampagov.net/permits (click on Research).
If you don’t know which permit you need, start with PermitNav at tampa.gov/permitnav. It will guide you through the pre‑application process and save you hours of confusion.
Action guide
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply for a New Permit in Tampa
Applying for a permit in Tampa is a structured process. Follow these steps to avoid delays and ensure approval.
Confirm the property is inside Tampa city limits
Before you start, verify that your property is within Tampa city limits. Hillsborough County has a separate permitting process.
Use PermitNav to identify the right permit type
Go to tampa.gov/permitnav and answer the questions. This will tell you exactly which permit(s) you need.
Gather your documents
Required documents vary by project type. Common requirements include: site plans, building plans (signed and sealed by a Florida licensed Architect or Engineer), energy calculations, product approvals, contractor registration, and the Owner‑Builder Acknowledgement Form if applicable.
Submit through Accela Citizen Access
Log into your Accela account (or create one), complete the application, and upload all required plans and documents.
If applicable, upload the recorded Notice of Commencement
For projects over $2,500 (or $15,000 for existing HVAC systems), a Notice of Commencement must be recorded and uploaded before the first inspection.
If using Owner‑Builder, upload the Owner‑Builder Acknowledgement Form
Owners may act as contractor only under the statutory exemption and must directly supervise the work. Generally may improve a one‑family or two‑family residence for their own use. May not build or improve for sale or lease within one year after completion.
Respond to review comments
Reviewers may request corrections or additional information. Respond promptly through Accela to avoid delays. You will receive notifications in your Accela account.
Pay fees and obtain issuance
Once all reviews are approved, pay the invoiced fees. The permit will be issued and available for download.
Schedule inspections as work progresses
Call the Inspection Hotline at 813-274-7900 or use the Accela portal to schedule inspections.
Although a condominium has residential occupancy, a commercial permit is required for condo units. Use of an incorrect record type may delay your permit.
Start your application through the official Accela portal.
Action guide
Step‑by‑Step: How to Schedule a Tampa Building Inspection
Inspections are required at various stages of your project. Tampa offers both traditional in‑person inspections and virtual inspections through VuSpex.
Wait for your permit to be issued
You cannot schedule an inspection until your permit is “Issued.” Check your permit status in Accela.
Determine if your inspection is eligible for virtual inspection (VuSpex)
As of October 20, 2025, Tampa uses VuSpex for eligible trade‑permit virtual inspections. Virtual inspections are scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m..
Call the Inspection Hotline or use Accela
Call 813-274-7900 to schedule an inspection. You can also schedule through the Accela Citizen Access portal.
Have your permit number ready
You will need the permit number, job address, inspection type, and contact information.
Specify the inspection type
Common inspection types: Foundation, Framing, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Final. The inspector needs to know exactly what to check.
For VuSpex virtual inspections, schedule within the window
Virtual inspections are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Offline field reports auto‑generate next‑day review.
Check your inspection status
After the inspection, you can check the status in Accela. “Passed” means you can move to the next stage. “Failed” means you need to correct the issue and schedule a re‑inspection.
Virtual inspections can save you time. Call 813-274-8211 to check if your permit type is eligible for VuSpex.
Decode the status
What Each Tampa Permit Status Actually Means
Once you open a permit, the status tells you exactly what’s happening – and what you need to do next.
2026 cost guide
Tampa Permit Fees – What You’ll Actually Pay
Tampa permit fees vary by project type. Many residential projects have flat fees. All items marked with an asterisk are subject to a Florida Building Permit Surcharge (2.5% of permit value or minimum $4). You can estimate fees using the city’s Construction Permit Fee Estimator.
Tampa issues building permits for structural work and separate trade permits for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing. Most remodels need both kinds.
Flat fee. Subject to 2.5% surcharge.
Includes building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical
Includes building, electrical, plumbing
Flat fee
Flat fee
Flat fee
Flat fee
Flat fee
Flat fee
These fees are based on the City of Tampa Development & Growth Management fee schedule. Always confirm final fees with the Construction Services Division before submitting payment.
Fix unpermitted work
What to Do If You Did Unpermitted Work – After‑the‑Fact Permit Process
Unpermitted work can stop a home sale, prevent insurance claims, and lead to code enforcement violations. The longer you wait, the worse it gets.
Identify what work was done without a permit
List all work performed: structural changes, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, windows, or additions. Take photos of everything.
Call the Construction Services Division immediately
Call 813-274-3100. Explain that you have unpermitted work and want to make it right. Being proactive is much better than being discovered.
Get a permit after the fact (if possible)
Depending on the work, you may be able to get a permit after the fact. You may need to expose work for inspection (e.g., open walls for electrical/plumbing). Expect to pay penalties and double fees.
Schedule inspections as needed
For work that is still accessible, schedule inspections. For work that is covered up, you may need to open walls. The inspector will tell you what needs to be exposed.
Final the permit
Once all inspections pass, the permit is finaled. Save the finaled permit record for your property file – you’ll need it if you sell the property.
To report construction being done without a permit or work that is not following building code, call the Construction Services Violations hotline at 813-274-3198.
Rescue expired permits
How to Reactivate an Expired Tampa Permit
If your permit has expired, work must stop until you reactivate it. Here’s how.
Check the exact expiration date
Log into Accela and open your permit. Note the expiration date.
If the permit is recently expired (within 30 days)
You may be able to get an extension. Submit a written request to the Construction Services Division explaining why the permit expired and requesting an extension. Include a new timeline for completion.
If the permit is long expired (more than 30 days)
You will likely need to submit a revision to the original permit through Accela instead of starting a brand‑new application. This is faster and cheaper than a new application.
If the permit was issued under a contractor
Your contractor is responsible for the permit. If the contractor has gone out of business, you can apply to become the responsible party (Owner/Builder).
If the permit is void (unreactivatable)
You must submit a completely new permit application. This means paying the full fees again and going through the plan review process from scratch.
Submitting a revision to an expired permit is almost always faster and cheaper than starting a brand‑new application. Call the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100 for guidance.
Local secrets
Tampa Insider Permit Tips – Nobody Publishes These
The Permit Navigator at tampa.gov/permitnav walks you through questions to identify exactly which permit you need. Use it before you start any application.
When searching for permits by address in Accela, always put the address in quotation marks – e.g., “1400 N Boulevard” – for the most precise results.
Although a condominium has residential occupancy, a commercial permit is required. Using the wrong permit type can delay your project.
For projects exceeding $2,500 (or $15,000 for existing HVAC), a Notice of Commencement must be recorded and uploaded before the first inspection.
Eligible trade‑permit virtual inspections are scheduled Monday‑Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:20 p.m. Call 813-274-8211 for eligibility.
Call 813-274-7900 to schedule inspections. You can also schedule through Accela.
Estimate your permit fees using the city’s Construction Permit Fee Estimator before you apply.
If you pull your own permit as an owner‑builder, you generally may not build or improve for sale or lease within one year after completion.
Most remodels need both a building permit (structural) and separate trade permits for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing.
One‑story detached accessory structures up to 120 sq ft (e.g., small sheds) do not require a permit. Residential sheds 150 sq ft or less also do not require a permit.
Projects that include exterior alterations (e.g., driveways, additions) require site plans.
Painting, wallpapering, shelves, cabinets, floor coverings, and gutters do not require permits.
For same‑day plan review, call 813-274-3100, option 1, or email FastPass@tampagov.net to request a Fast Pass virtual appointment.
After the 2024‑2025 storms, many emergency roof and window permits were issued under fast‑track rules. Many remain unfinaled. Call the Construction Services Division to request a “forced final inspection” on any “Issued” roof permit older than 12 months.
Always take a screenshot or print your permit confirmation. You’ll need the permit number for inspections, final approval, and future property records.
Many Tampa neighborhoods have HOAs that require approval for exterior work. HOA approval does NOT replace the city building permit – you need both. Start your city permit first, then get HOA approval.
Fix problems fast
Tampa Permit Search Troubleshooting – 12 Common Scenarios
🔍 No permits found for an address
Try: Use quotation marks around the address (e.g., “123 Main St”). Try searching by permit number or folio. Call the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100.
🔐 Can’t access Accela
Try: You don’t need an account for public record searches. For secure records, you must be an authorized contact and logged in.
📄 Permit stuck “Under Review” for weeks
Try: Check your Accela messages for review comments. Contact the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100 to check for missing documents.
⏰ Permit expired – what now?
Try: Submit a revision through Accela instead of starting a new application. Call 813-274-3100 for guidance.
🏠 Unpermitted work discovered
Try: Contact the Construction Services Division immediately. You may need to apply for a permit after the fact – but penalties may apply. Call 813-274-3198 to report violations.
📋 Records request taking too long
Try: Follow up with the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100. Visit tampagov.net/permits and click on Research.
🔴 My inspection failed – what now?
Try: Review the inspector’s notes carefully. Correct the issue, and schedule a re‑inspection.
📄 I lost my permit card
Try: Contact the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100 to request a replacement.
🔧 My contractor pulled the permit – can I get a copy?
Try: Yes – ask your contractor for a copy. If they won’t provide it, you can request a copy from the Construction Services Division yourself.
👤 The property owner is deceased – how do I get records?
Try: Contact the Construction Services Division. You may need to provide proof of authority (e.g., executor or administrator of the estate).
🏛️ I have a lien on my property from a permit
Try: Contact the Construction Services Division to understand the issue. You may need to pay outstanding fees or complete outstanding work to remove the lien.
📱 Online payment isn’t working
Try: If online payment fails, you can pay in person at the Construction Services Division (2555 E. Hanna Ave) or by phone with a credit card at 813-274-3100.
Ready to go
Permit Application Printable Checklist
Print this checklist and check off items as you complete them.
- Verify property is inside Tampa city limits
- Use PermitNav to identify the right permit type
- Create or log into Accela Citizen Access account
- Gather required documents: site plans, building plans (signed and sealed by Florida licensed Architect or Engineer)
- Complete energy calculations (if required)
- If applying as Owner‑Builder, complete Owner‑Builder Acknowledgement Form
- If job > $2,500 (or $15,000 for HVAC), file Notice of Commencement
- Submit application in Accela with all documents
- Respond to review comments promptly
- Pay fees and obtain issuance
- Schedule inspections by calling 813-274-7900 or using Accela
- For eligible trade permits, use VuSpex virtual inspections (813-274-8211)
- After final inspection passes, save finaled permit for your property file
Key terms
Tampa Permit Terms Explained
Official office
City of Tampa Construction Services Division – 2026 Contact Info
City Center at Hanna
2555 E. Hanna Ave
Tampa, FL 33610
Main: 813-274-3100
Inspections Hotline: 813-274-7900
Violations: 813-274-3198
VuSpex Virtual Inspections: 813-274-8211
Fast Pass: FastPass@tampagov.net
Construction Services: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Quick answers
Tampa Building Permit Search – 2026 FAQs
How do I search for a building permit in Tampa?
Go to the Accela Citizen Access portal at aca-prod.accela.com/TAMPA. Type the address in quotation marks (e.g., “123 Main St”) and click Search.
Can I apply for a building permit online in Tampa?
Yes – all new permit submittals are accepted through the Accela Citizen Access portal. You can also use the Permit Navigator at tampa.gov/permitnav to identify the right permit.
How long does plan review take in Tampa?
Plan review timelines vary by project type and complexity. For same‑day review, you can request a Fast Pass virtual appointment by calling 813-274-3100, option 1, or emailing FastPass@tampagov.net.
How do I schedule an inspection in Tampa?
Call the Inspection Hotline at 813-274-7900 or schedule through the Accela portal. For eligible trade permits, virtual inspections are available through VuSpex from 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m., Monday‑Friday.
What is the inspection cutoff time?
Virtual inspections are available Monday‑Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.. For same‑day scheduling, call early in the day.
Can I pull my own permit as a homeowner in Tampa?
Yes, under the Owner‑Builder exemption. You must directly supervise the work and generally may not build or improve for sale or lease within one year after completion. You must also complete the Owner‑Builder Acknowledgement Form.
What permits require a Notice of Commencement in Tampa?
When the contract value exceeds $2,500 (or $15,000 for existing HVAC systems), a Notice of Commencement must be recorded and uploaded before the first inspection.
How much does a building permit cost in Tampa?
Costs vary by project. Common flat fees: roof replacement $181.43, bathroom remodel $369, kitchen remodel $369, HVAC replacement $124, water heater $124. All fees are subject to a 2.5% Florida Building Permit Surcharge. Use the Construction Permit Fee Estimator for an estimate.
How do I get full permit records in Tampa?
You can search for permits in Accela by address. For complete files, contact the Construction Services Division at 813-274-3100 or visit tampagov.net/permits and click on Research.
What happens if I have an expired permit?
Work must stop. Submit a revision through Accela to reactivate it instead of starting a new application. Call 813-274-3100 for guidance.
What is the Permit Navigator (PermitNav)?
PermitNav is a City of Tampa tool launched in 2024 that walks you through a series of questions to identify exactly which permits you need for your project. Available at tampa.gov/permitnav.
How long is a permit valid?
Permits are valid for a specific duration based on the project type. Check your permit in Accela for the exact expiration date.
Do I need a permit for interior work?
Most interior work (electrical, plumbing, mechanical, structural) requires a permit. Painting, wallpapering, shelves, cabinets, and floor coverings are exempt.
What happens if I sell my house with an open permit?
Open permits can stop a home sale. Buyers and lenders require all permits to be finaled or closed.
Can I get a refund if my permit is denied?
Some fees may be refundable, but plan review fees are generally non‑refundable. Ask the Construction Services Division for specifics.
What’s the difference between a building permit and a trade permit?
A building permit covers structural work. Trade permits are separate for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing. Most remodels need both kinds.
Does Tampa accept credit cards for permit fees?
Yes – credit cards are accepted online through Accela and in person at the Construction Services Division.
What is VuSpex and how does it work?
VuSpex is Tampa’s virtual inspection system for eligible trade permits. Virtual inspections are scheduled Monday‑Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Call 813-274-8211 for eligibility.
The shortcut that prevents most permit problems
Find the permit first. Then identify exactly what’s happening: Is it issued, under review, finaled, or expired? Once you know the status, you’ll know exactly what to do next – whether that’s scheduling an inspection, submitting a revision, or requesting full records.