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1. What type of work requires a permit?

What type of work requires a permit?

• Any new construction

• Residential or Commercial addition

• Residential or Commercial alteration of existing structures

• Fences

• Driveways

• Patios larger than 100 sq. ft.

• Sheds larger than 50 sq. ft.

• Parking lots

• Roofing

• Pools

• Solar pool heaters

• Structural changes

• Signage

• Commercial awnings

• Tree removal

• Land disturbing activity

• Plumbing

• Electrical, Gas or HVAC

Contact the Building Division at 321-221-7540 option 2 for any additional questions.

2. Why do I need to get a building permit for property I own?

Pursuant to the adopted Standard Building Code, any and all work performed required that you obtain a building permit, except for minor repairs. The plans must be reviewed, and the material and work inspected to assure proper and safe installation. It is always to your advantage to check with the Building Division before you begin your construction activity.


Staff will be happy to determine whether a permit is required for the scope of work you are performing.

3. Where can I get flood zone information for my property?

The Building Services Division of the City of Rockledge can provide you with this information. Call 321-221-7540 for assistance.

4. Do I need a permit to re-roof my home if I perform the work myself?

Yes, any type of repair to the roof requires a building permit. The city checks to make sure compliance with the codes is being followed and that the proper building materials are being used. For your protection, we do assure the owner and not an unlicensed contractor, is in fact, doing the work being performed.

5. What do I need for an A/C permit?

All A/C permits require with submittal a copy of the Manual J and the Manual S, the permit application and a signed contract.

6. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

Yes, a permit is required along with a layout of your yard showing the location of all your trees and indicating which tree is being removed.

7. How do I find out if my property is within the City of Rockledge?

Go to www.bcpao.us (Brevard County Property Appraiser). Open “Search for Property” to display the details of the subject property. Within the details you will see a section labeled "Taxing District" on the left side of the page indicating the jurisdiction.

8. Is a permit required?

Most people are aware that building permits are required for new commercial buildings, tenant build-outs, construction trailers, temporary power poles, new homes, mobile homes, room additions, and in-ground swimming pools.

Unfortunately, some realize only after work is underway or finished that permits are needed for other projects, such as carports; garages; fences; sheds; re-roofing; window replacement; door replacement; garage-door replacement; above-ground swimming pools; A/C change-outs; electrical work; plumbing work; gas piping and connections; generators; fire-protection systems (alarms, sprinklers, stand-pipes); walk-in coolers; and low-voltage wiring.

Projects started without a building permit can result in greatly increased costs, delays, and even removal of structures. The structures may be placed in the wrong location or they may not comply with building codes.

The Florida Building Code, 7th Edition (2020), requires that a building permit be obtained prior to construction, alterations, repairs, and relocations. A property owner or contractor who starts work without first obtaining a permit could be subject to a penalty of 100% of the usual permit fee. Section 109 of the Florida Building Code sets fees, which are authorized by Florida State Statute 553.80.

The permitting process allows a determination that improvements comply with City Ordinance, City Land Development Regulations and the Florida Building code.

9. What Contractors licenses are required for those who apply for a permit in the City of Rockledge?

• State Certified Contractors: Copy of State Certification & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption and general liability insurance.

• State Registered Contractors: Copy of State Registration, Brevard County Competency Card & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption and general liability insurance.

• Subcontractors: Copy of State Certification or State Registration with Brevard County Competency Card & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption and general liability insurance.

• Specialty Contractors: Licensed by the County & proof of Workers Compensation Insurance or Affidavit of Exemption and general liability insurance.

10. How do I apply for a permit?

To apply for a permit, an application, along with drawings (when applicable) must be submitted. For any new construction or additions to the property a survey is required along with proof of property ownership from the property owner (deed or tax statement), description of work being done, and estimated value of construction.

11. How long does it take for a permit to be approved?

Permit approval time depends on the correct submission of the required work documentation and the amount of submissions after review by staff. If the submitted application with plans only require a single review, the following schedule applies:

• Residential Construction Permits require an average of 15-30 working days for approval or response.

• Commercial Construction Permits require an average of 15-30 working days for approval.

• Fire System Permits (Alarms, Sprinklers, etc.) require an average of 7 working days for approval.

• Certain permits may be issued while you wait or within 3 days if plan review is required.

12. What is One-Stop Permitting?

One-Stop permitting only applies to residential permits and allows applicants to apply for and obtain permits in a quick and convenient manner. Per the Florida Building Code, each One-Stop permit is designed to be processed without Plan Review Approval. One-stop permit applications can typically be processed, approved and issued in a relatively short timeframe while the applicant waits, therefore increasing efficiency and reducing customer visits. Please see the following list of permit type’s eligible for One-Stop Permitting:

Residential

• Re-roof without skylights or ISO (insulation) Board installation

• Fence

• Mechanical change-out, no ductwork replacement

• Pool resurfacing

• Tree Removal

13. Why do I need to submit surveys of my property?

Surveys are required for any new construction, additions, fences, sheds, pools to existing properties to verify that the proposed construction is wholly located on the owner’s property and that it meets all setback requirements for the zoning district.

14. Who needs to sign the permit application?

The application must be signed by the contractor (license holder) and the owner of the property or a signed contract showing an agreement was made with the contractor and owner.

15. Can I receive a permit as owner/builder?

An Owner/Builder permit can be obtained if all of the following apply:

• The applicant is the owner.

• The permit must be used for the owners use only.

• The property is not for sale or lease for a period of one year.

• (Commercial only) The construction value is less than $75,000.

16. Do my plans need to be signed and sealed?

Most plans need to be signed and sealed by a registered design professional. Please contact the City Building Department for more information.

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1. What is the current population of the City of Rockledge?

As of April 1, 2015, the estimated population is 26,165 as determined by the Bureau of Economic and Business Research, University of Florida.

2. Can you give me information about planting trees / shrubs / bushes in the right of way area between the sidewalk area and the street?

It is recommended that trees not be planted in this area; however, if a letter of request is sent to the city manager, approval can be granted, but only certain types of trees are allowed (a list will be provided). In all cases trees are to be planted so as not to create a visual hazard or impact the normal use of sidewalks. Shrubs must be maintained at a height of three feet or less.

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1. Can I park my car across the sidewalk if it is in my driveway?

No. Vehicles are not supposed to be parked in such a way as to block pedestrians using the sidewalk for its intended purposes - this is a violation of city code and can subject the owner of the vehicle to a citation.

2. If I am concerned about code violations, what should I do?

Contact the code enforcement officer at Rockledge City Hall and share your concern. It will be evaluated to determine whether or not it is a violation and what action can be taken. If you wish to remain anonymous, do not give us your name or phone number.

3. What do I need to know about garage sales?

Individual residences are limited to four garage sales in any twelve-month period. No permits are required, but signage is limited to three (one at the residence and two at the nearest major intersection(s) to the residence), but only on private property. Signs are not permitted in public rights-of-way, on utility poles, stop signs, etc.

4. What should I consider when planting trees on my property?

While the city encourages landscaping and tree planting, always consider sidewalks, driveways, utilities, and even your house when planting trees. If placed in the wrong locations, trees can clog sewers, crack sidewalks, interrupt electrical power, and TV cable service, and even effect the foundation of a house. Remember to plan before you plant.

5. How many vehicles can a residence have?

There is no limit to the number of vehicles per residence; however, the Code Enforcement Division becomes involved if a vehicle does not have a valid license plate, or if the vehicle is inoperable (flat tire(s), no engine, or is partially dismantled). Cars are also illegally parked if they block sidewalks.

6. What are the rules on yard maintenance?

All properties with a structure: All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of twelve (12) inches in height. And all sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways, parking spaces and similar areas shall be kept in a proper state of repair, and maintained free from hazardous conditions (edged).
Vacant property residential or commercial: Must, at a minimum, keep all untended vegetation, all grass and all undergrowth cut to a height of twelve (12) inches or less in an area ten (10) feet wide along any area that is abutting and within ten (10) feet of any improved lot/parcel, sidewalk, street, or bike path.
Reference: Rockledge Code of Ordinances, Section 10-17 / Rockledge Land Development Code Section 59.73
Click here for the City Code

7. Where can I park my RV/Camper on my property?

Motor homes, RVs, 5th wheel & Travel Trailers, all Campers, Pop-ups etc. can be stored on the property provided that it is behind the front building line in the side or backyard. You need to own the RV and no one can live in it. If you need to test or do repair work to the RV, you can hook up electric and water but only temporarily. The RV must be parked an improved surface, not grass or dirt. Only 1 per property and have current tags and registration.

Reference: Rockledge Land Development Regulation Section 55.15
Click here for the City Code

8. Where can I park my boat or cargo/utility trailer on my property?

It depends on the total length and is measured from the tongue of the trailer to the very end of the trailer or boat.

Total length if under 22 ft. can park in your front yard/driveway or on a paved surface (not blocking the sidewalk), all boats are covered, for recreational use and have current tags and registration.

Total length if over 22 ft. must be parked behind the front line of the building, in a carport or garage. All boats are covered, for recreational use and have current tags and registration.

Note: Trailers used for commercial businesses are not allowed to be stored in residential area.

Reference: 55.15 Rockledge Land Development Regulations
Click here for the City Code

9. Are commercial vehicles allowed to be stored/parked in my neighborhood?

Any vehicle that has over four (4) wheels, more than two (2) axles, is taller than eight (8) feet from ground level, or has a total length more than twenty-two (22) feet is defined as a commercial vehicle. They cannot be stored/parked in a residential neighborhood unless it is within a garage or if the vehicle belongs to a company doing work on your house. Official vehicles of city, county, or state governments and public utilities are exempt.

Reference: Section 55.15, Rockledge Land Development Regulations
Click here for the City Code

10. Can I plant trees between the sidewalk and roadway?

Yes, but because utilities and more could be installed in that area, only certain trees are allowed and you would need a permit. Please contact the Building Department for a copy of the permit application..

11. What are the requirements for address numbers? They are on my mail box, is that enough?

All new and existing buildings in the city are required to have address numbers attached to the building and numbers must be plainly visible and legible from the street. This makes your address identification very simple and direct not only for emergency, fire & police, but also for your friends and neighbors, and in the case of commercial properties, your customers & clients Reference: 59.73(D)3 Rockledge Land Development Regulations Click here for the City Code

12. What are the rules for the household garbage container (HOBO)?

The household garbage container (HOBO) assigned to your residence is not to be left out at the curb on non-scheduled pick up days. The Code requires that the HOBO be brought to the curb prior to 7:00 a.m. on the pickup day, and be removed back from the curb no later than 7:00 p.m.of the pickup day. The HOBO is be stored near the house during other times.

Reference: Rockledge Land Development Regulations Section 57.63
Click here for the City Code

13. What can I store in my carport, front porch or in my yard?

It is not permitted to store or accumulate tangible property such as furniture, clothing, or household goods in a yard or open carport. When this happens there is a likelihood of those items becoming a breeding place for snakes, rats, flies, gnats, mosquitoes or other harmful or dangerous creatures or insects.

Keep all carports, front porches and yards free from unnecessary clutter.

Reference: Rockledge Code of Ordinances Section 13-14
Click here for the City Code

14. Who can I contact regarding a foreclosed/abandoned house in my neighborhood?

Please call us as we have an ordinance requiring that any property under a foreclosure action must be registered and shall remain under the annual registration requirement, inspection, security, and maintenance standards as long as it remains in the foreclosure action and vacant, or becomes bank/lender owned.

Reference: Rockledge Land Development Regulations 59.80
Click here for the City Code

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1. Can I drop off my Sharp containers at the fire station?

Yes, you can drop off your used needles at fire station #1, 1800 Rockledge Boulevard. It is very important that the needles be brought in an approved sharps container. We have free sharps containers at station #1.

2. Can I drop off my unused medicines at the fire department?

No. Your unused/unwanted medicines can be dropped off at the Rockledge Police Department, 1776 Jack Oates Boulevard.

3. Why does a fire engine have to come to my home/business when all I need is an ambulance?

We run a two-tiered system in Brevard County. Firefighters and paramedics are cross-trained. There are more fire engines with EMT's and paramedics in the City than there are ambulances and, in most instances, a strategically placed fire engine will arrive at the scene of an emergency before an ambulance will.

4. Can the fire department help me install my car seat?

Yes, we can. Please refer to the Child Car Seat Inspections section under Services and Resources for more information. Child Car Seat Inspections

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1. What is a floodplain?

Floodplains serve many useful purposes, and those that are preserved in their natural state provide a wide range of benefits. For example, floodplains and primary swash areas hold, filter, convey, and disperse flood waters. Without the preservation of these natural floodplains, flood waters would inundate developed areas.


Floodplains serve as natural drainage basins and provide flood storage for stormwater runoff in their immediate area. They also provide a valuable service by filtering impurities from runoff.

2. What causes flooding in the City of Rockledge?

Most flooding in the City of Rockledge is caused by ponding rain that is deposited by severe storms, such as tropical storms and hurricanes. Occasionally, heavy rains will cause localized flooding.

3. What can I expect if a storm approaches?

The National Weather Service issues public warnings concerning expected floods and storms. Local television and radio stations provide local weather information and advisories, such as warnings for flash floods, heavy rains, tropical storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes.


A hurricane watch indicates that a hurricane poses a possible threat within 24 to 36 hours. A hurricane warning indicates that hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours. You should prepare to take action, up to and including evacuation.

4. What can I do to avoid flooding in my home?

The City of Rockledge requires that all new residential structures in the regulatory floodplain be elevated one foot above the base flood elevation (BFE). It may be possible to retrofit existing structures that are not above the BFE by incorporating various flood-proofing measures.


Flood-proofing measures include:

• Check with a plumber regarding a valve to prevent sewer backups


• Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber handy for emergencies


• Make sure that nearby drainage ditches are clear of debris and functioning properly

If you know that flooding is probable, move valuable contents upstairs or to a safe location.


Debris in drainage ditches, streams, and pipes can cause localized flooding when it rains. It is unlawful for any person to throw or deposit any refuse, trash, or debris in any drainage ditch, stream or body of water. In order to prevent localized flooding outside of special flood hazard areas, city code requires the minimum finished floor elevation for new residential construction to be at least 18 inches above the highest crown of any abutting street.

5. Is my home in a floodplain?

Maps of the 100-year and 500-year floodplains within the City of Rockledge are available for review in the Building Department, located in the City Hall, 1600 Huntington Lane.


The Building Official is available to assist you with maps and flood plain information and provide advice on retrofitting techniques for structures in the floodplain. Current and past flood insurance rate maps (FIRM), reference materials, and pamphlets are available at the Brevard County Library.

6. What is required when I apply for a building permit in a flood plain?

The city's land development regulations regulate portions of the city as being within the 100-year floodplain. In other words, there is a one percent chance of flooding in any given year. The zoning ordinances and building codes have special provisions regulating construction and other development within those floodplains.


Before you build, fill, or otherwise develop in a floodplain, contact the Building Department to discuss city regulations. All development in the regulatory floodplain requires an elevation certificate after construction. The elevation certificate is produced by your certified land surveyor and must be turned in to the Building Department prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.


Copies of elevation certificates that have been submitted in the past are available for review in the Building Department during regular business hours. Any development within the floodplain without a permit is illegal.

7. I've had flood damage to my home or business; do I need a permit for repairs?

A permit issued by the Building Department is required to make any repairs to flood-damaged buildings. Buildings with damage equal to or exceeding 50% of the building's valuation must be brought into full compliance with the floodplain regulations.


The ordinances also require that all substantial improvements or additions to a building be treated as a new building. A substantial improvement is when the value of an addition, alteration, repair, or reconstruction project exceeds 50% of the value of the existing building. In the case of an addition, only the addition must be protected. In the case of an improvement to the original building, the entire building must be protected.


The requirements of the ordinances and building codes are minimum standards that all development must meet. To increase the safety of your property and reduce insurance premiums, you should consider building to higher standards. Of course, the safest way to develop your property is to locate improvements outside of the flood plain.

8. What can I do to decrease my risk of injury during a flood?

Residents of hazard areas can take the following actions to decrease the risk of injury due to flooding:

• Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Do not smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know that the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated


• Do not drive through flooded areas and do not drive around road barriers. Roads or bridges may be washed out


• Do not walk through flowing water


• In standing water, use a pole or stick to determine depth


• Keep children away from flood waters, ditches, culverts and drains


• Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors may be covered with debris, including glass and nails. Floors and stairs that are covered with mud can be very slippery


• Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. Report downed power lines to the power company


• Turn off all electrical circuits at the panel or disconnect all electrical appliances


• Watch for animals, including snakes. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours

9. Why do I need flood insurance?

If you have questions about whether or not you need flood insurance, consider the following:

• Any walled and roofed building in an National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) participating community is eligible, whether or not the building is located in a floodplain.


• Flooding is not covered by a standard homeowner's insurance policy.


• Flood insurance is available in the City of Rockledge due to the city's participation in the NFIP.


• Maintaining a flood insurance policy is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and reduce the cost of flood disasters.


• There is a 30-day waiting period after a policy is purchased before coverage goes into effect. However, if a new or renewal policy is required by a lender as a condition for obtaining a mortgage, then the coverage takes effect at closing.

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1. How can I find job openings in the city, and how do I get an application?

Job openings are posted every Friday at Rockledge City Hall and are also listed online. Applications for employment can be obtained at Rockledge City Hall or are downloadable online.

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1. What is the zoning on my property?

Every property within the city limits has a zoning classification assigned to it. There are currently 19 different zoning classifications. After you have determined what your zoning classification is, Section 60.00 of the Land Development Regulations will tell you exactly what that zoning definition means.

2. What is the future land use on my property?

Every property within the city limits has a future land use classification assigned to it. There are currently 14 different future land use classifications. After you have determined what you future land use classification is, Chapter 1 of the Comprehensive Plan will tell you exactly what that future land use definition means.

3. What can I develop on my vacant land?

Depending on where the property is located and how many acres you have to develop will determine exactly what can be built. The best thing to do is to call or email the planning office to help make that determination.

4. How many parking spaces are required for my potential development?

Section 55.00 of the Land Development Regulations states the exact number of parking places required, depending on what type of structure will be built.

5. Can I get my property rezoned?

Section 35 of the Land Development Regulations states the exact process that needs to be followed to submit for rezoning. The rezoning application can be found under forms.

6. What business is allowed in my zoning district?

After determining your zoning classification, the Land Development Regulations, section 60 will state exactly what types of businesses are allowed, what businesses are prohibited, and which businesses are allowed by special exception.

7. What does the Planning Commission do?

The Planning Commission consists of nine members appointed by City Council to three-year terms.


The commission is tasked with matters relating to:

• Conducting public hearings


• Establishing principles, objectives, and policies for the planned use and development of land


• Investigating special studies


• Preparing and maintaining plans for the future development of the city


• Reviewing and making recommendations for special exceptions to the Board of Adjustment


• Reviewing and making recommendations for zoning district amendments, comprehensive plan amendments, and subdivision plans


• Reviewing grant proposals and submit written recommendations to the City Council


• Reviewing proposed land development ordinances and submit written recommendations to the City Council


• Submitting written recommendations to the City Council


• Zoning uses and development of land uses

8. Is landscaping required for a new development plan?

Landscaping is required for all new development. Section 40.30 of the Land Development Regulations clearly depicts exactly what the landscape requirements are.

9. How many copies of plans do I need to submit for site plan review?

The department requires:

• Six sets of sealed site plans


• Two copies of concurrency evaluation


• Two sealed tree surveys


• Two sealed landscape plans


• Two copies of the erosion / sedimentation control permit application


• Two copies of the environmental assessment


• Copy of all recorded easements


• Two copies of the SJRWMD permit


• Two copies of sealed drainage calculations (100-year on-site)


• Two copies of the DEP permit


• Statement of cost


• Proposed use

10. Can I submit a conceptual plan for preliminary review?

A conceptual site plan must be submitted for preliminary review. This is a one time only free review. After a preliminary review comments have been given, the applicant may submit an official site plan.

11. What is the site plan review fee?

Section 39.12 of the Land Development Regulations states the following:
(a) Any owner, developer, or other party submitting to the city building department for review or approval a site plan of a commercial, multifamily, or townhouse development, other than a site plan of a subdivision (residential or commercial) or PUD development, shall pay the city at the time of submission of the site plan a non-refundable site plan review fee of one-half of the building permit fee for the development, or the sum of $1,500, whichever is the lesser amount.

12. What is the involved in the comprehensive plan amendment?

There are two types of comprehensive plan amendments.


Small scale, which usually involves changes to the future land use map, is intended for 10 acres or less and costs $1,500. It typically takes 60 days for the small scale plan amendment to be completed.


Large-scale amendments usually involve text changes to the comprehensive plan or future land use map and are greater than 10 acres in size and cost $2,500. For the large scale comprehensive plan amendments, the process can take upwards of nine months to complete.

13. What is concurrency and how does it affect me?

Water, sewer, schools, recreation, solid waster, and transportation (infrastructure items) all have established levels of service. The city monitors each item to ensure that when new projects are built, the established level of service is not exceeded. This may require a developer to make improvements to any or all the infrastructure items.

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1. What if my HOBO (wheeled garbage container) needs repair?

Call the Public Works Department at 321-221-7540 and they will pick it up, make the repairs, and return it to you. Unless the HOBO has been abused, there is no charge for this service.

2. Can I place yard trash in my wheeled garbage container (HOBO)?

No. Your garbage will not be picked up if yard trash is mixed with household garbage, as the landfill operations will reject loads if they contain any yard trash. Place your yard trash in two 32-gallon garbage cans; once they are full, you can use plastic bags. Bags will be emptied and placed back in the container. Large limbs and branches can be cut into four-foot lengths and placed at curbside for pickup.

3. Which roads in the city are the responsibility of the State of Florida Department of Transportation?

Fiske Boulevard (SR519) and U.S. 1 (SR5) are under the state's responsibility. Also, Brevard County is responsible for Barnes Boulevard. All other roads are the responsibility of the City of Rockledge.

4. What if I observe a street light out?

The local phone number to call FPL to report it is 321-723-7795, it helps if you have the pole location and pole number (if possible). Or you can report it to Rockledge Public Works at 321-221-7540 with a pole location and pole number (if possible), and it will be reported to Florida Power and Light (FPL) immediately for repair. You can also contact FPL directly at 800-468-8243.

5. What if my sidewalk is broken?

If it is creating a hazard (not just cracked), please report it to the Public Works Department so that it can be repaired to eliminate the possibility of an accident.

6. What is the monthly amount of the stormwater utility?

The monthly charge for the Stormwater Utility is $4.25 and is based on an Equivalent Rate Unit (ERU) of 2922 square feet of impervious area, the average impervious area of a single family home. All other developed sites are assessed one ERU per 2922 square feet of impervious surface.

7. What are the benefits of treating stormwater?

Treating stormwater runoff helps to remove pollutants, soil sediments, and suspended and settled solids. Also, there is a benefit of recharging the underwater aquifer used in potable water systems.

8. What do I do if I smell a natural gas odor or discover a gas leak?

Don't delay! Call 1-888-352-5325 immediately to report a gas leak, or if you smell natural gas and suspect there might be a leak. Florida City Gas Website

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1. Do I get credit for filling my swimming pool?

The City of Rockledge does not issue sewer credits for the filling of a pool. The sewer charges will stop after a consumption of 15,000 gallons. For a typical pool of 12,500 gallons, the total charge for the month should approximate $125 or less.

2. My sink is draining slow, or I have a sewer backup in my house, what do I do?

Call the Wastewater Treatment Facility at 321-221-7540. A city representative will investigate your complaint and make a determination of the problem.

3. What are the legal watering times to irrigate my lawn?

Legal watering times are 4 p.m. to 10 a.m. The same is requested of reclaimed water.