---
title: "What Is Building permit? Building Glossary | Halo Homes"
description: "A building permit is written approval from the local government to start construction after it reviews your plans against the code."
url: https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/building-permit
publisher: Halo Homes
phone: +1-813-956-1972
quote: https://build813.multisites.ai/contact
---

![Open kitchen and living area with a white island and black-framed glass walls](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/kitchen-living.iWvWiSSq_ZpVDoS.avif)

# Building permit

A building permit is written approval from the local government to start construction after it reviews your plans against the code.

Florida law makes it unlawful to build, alter, repair or demolish a building without first getting a permit from the enforcing agency. The agency checks your plans against the [Florida Building Code](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/florida-building-code). It can revoke a permit if the work does not conform.

The City of Tampa lists the stages of a residential new construction permit: application, fees, plan review and inspections. In a flood area, you also hand in an [elevation certificate](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/elevation-certificate). Our [guide to building on your lot](https://build813.multisites.ai/build-on-your-lot-tampa) walks through the order of steps.

[Halo Homes can helpCustom home construction](https://build813.multisites.ai/services/custom-home-construction)

## Related terms

-   [Florida Building Code](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/florida-building-code)
-   [Elevation certificate](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/elevation-certificate)
-   [Setback](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/setback)
-   [Certificate of occupancy](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/certificate-of-occupancy)

## Sources

1.  [Florida Senate: s. 553.79, Florida Statutes](https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/553.79)
2.  [City of Tampa: Residential New Construction](https://www.tampa.gov/construction-services/residential-permits/new-construction)

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## Start your home.

Tell Halo about your lot, your plans and your timing. A call or a short note is enough to begin.

[Start your home](https://build813.multisites.ai/contact)

Or call [(813) 956-1972](tel:+1-813-956-1972)