Permit requirements for metal fabrication in South Florida depend on scope, occupancy type, and jurisdiction. This page covers the most common situations.
In Florida, a building permit is generally required when the work affects the structural integrity, fire safety, or means of egress of a building. For metal fabrication, this covers most new stair installations, guard and handrail systems in commercial occupancies, structural steel connections, and fences above a certain height in some jurisdictions.
Decorative metalwork, interior furniture, CNC-cut parts, and replacement-in-kind repairs often do not require a permit, but the definition of "replacement in kind" varies by AHJ.
Location: Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach have different interpretations and thresholds. Some municipalities within those counties have additional requirements.
Occupancy type: Work in a commercial building, multi-family residential, or public-access space triggers permit review at a lower threshold than a single-family home.
Scope change: Adding height, changing materials, moving attachment points, or adding a new element to an existing system can change a no-permit job to a permit job.
When in doubt: Call the local building department before starting.
Fine Edge fabricates to spec. Permit pulling, engineer of record review, and licensed contractor responsibilities are separate from fabrication. For commercial and multi-family projects, Fine Edge coordinates with the GC or the permit applicant. For residential projects, Fine Edge advises clients on what questions to ask the local building department, but does not serve as the permit applicant.
Submit the scope, drawings, and any permit requirements. Fine Edge will fabricate to the specified and approved design.