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Building Department Information

Main Number:
(904) 284-6307 or (904) 269-6307

Steve Schoeff
Building Official

Chereese Stewart
Economic and Development Services Director

Physical Address:
435 Walburg Street
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

Mailing Address:
PO Box 1366
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

Email:
permits@claycountygov.com

Government

Clay County Building Division Services and Permit Information

Development Services Relocation Notice

Permitting and Development Services, which were previously located on the third floor of the Clay County Administration Building, have relocated to the new Development Services Building at 435 Walburg Street, Green Cove Springs.

Starting Monday, June 22, visitors who need permitting, planning, zoning, engineering, Florida Department of Health - Clay, State Housing Initiative Program (SHIP), development review, and code enforcement or related services can go to the new location, and staff will be ready to help you.

New Location:
Development Services Building
435 Walburg Street
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

New State Law: Building Permit Exemptions for Residential Properties (HB 803)

What Clay County Homeowners and Contractors Need to Know About HB 803

Effective July 1, 2026, a new Florida law (HB 803) creates two new building permit exemptions for certain work on single-family homes. Clay County is providing the information below to help homeowners and contractors understand when these exemptions apply and how to request them.

Exemption 1: Minor Residential Work Valued Under $7,500

What is exempt?

Beginning July 1, 2026, Florida law requires Clay County to exempt owners of single-family homes and their contractors from obtaining a building permit for eligible work valued at less than $7,500.

Examples of work that may qualify include:

  • Repair or replacement of wood fence pickets or panels (excluding fence posts)
  • Replacement of floor tile
  • Gutter replacement

Please note: These are examples only. Eligibility is determined by the Building Division based on the scope of work and applicable state law.

A permit is still required for:

The following work does not qualify for the exemption, regardless of project cost:

  • Electrical work
  • Plumbing work
  • Mechanical work
  • Gas work
  • Structural work, including:
    • Railings and guards
    • Windows and doors
    • Siding and soffits
    • Roofing
    • Elevated decks
  • Any work on property located partially or entirely within a flood hazard area as defined by the Florida Building Code
  • Right-of-way permits
  • Planning and zoning permits

Projects cannot be divided into phases

The total value of the entire project determines whether it qualifies for the exemption.

You may not divide one construction project into multiple smaller projects or phases to keep each portion below the $7,500 threshold.

How to request a permit exemption

To request this exemption, the property owner or contractor must contact the Clay County Building Division at buildingdivisionplanreview@claycountygov.com before starting the project. Staff can help determine whether your work qualifies for a permit exemption or if a building permit is still required.

Certified copy of NOC required before first inspection
Permitting: Apply here, step-by-step guide, and frequently asked questions
The Clay County Building Division is committed to serving our community with professionalism and efficiency through contractor licensing, permitting, and inspections. These services help protect the health, safety, and welfare of Clay County residents.