Do You Need a Permit to Install Pavers in Orange County Orlando?
- Feb 3
- 10 min read
The frustrating answer: It depends.
Here's when you DO need a permit in Orange County:
✅ Driveways - Almost always require permit
✅ Large patios (over 200 sq ft) - Usually require permit
✅ Pool decks - Always require permit (pool-related work)
✅ Any structural work - Walls, steps, grading changes
✅ Right-of-way work - Anything near street or sidewalk
Here's when you DON'T need a permit:
❌ Small patios (under 200 sq ft in some cases)
❌ Walkways (non-structural, existing grade)
❌ Paver repairs/replacement (same footprint, no grading change)
But wait, there's more complexity:
City of Orlando has different rules than unincorporated Orange County
Winter Park has different rules than both
HOAs have their own approval process (separate from permits)
Rules changed in 2024 (some outdated info online)
In this guide:
Exact permit requirements by project type
How to check if YOUR project needs permit
Permit application process step-by-step
Costs and timelines
HOA approval process
What happens if you skip permits
When to hire contractor vs DIY permits
Bottom line: Most paver projects need permits. Licensed contractors handle this for you. DIY means you deal with permitting yourself.
Which Paver Projects Require Permits in Orange County?
Let's break this down by project type:
DRIVEWAYS - Permit Required ✅
When permit is needed:
New driveway construction
Expanding existing driveway
Replacing concrete driveway with pavers
Any grading or elevation changes
Connecting to public street or right-of-way
Permit type: Building permit + possible right-of-way permit
Why required: Driveways affect drainage, connect to public infrastructure, and must meet engineering standards
Cost: $150-$350 depending on driveway size
Exception: Resurfacing existing paver driveway (same footprint, no grade change) usually doesn't need permit
POOL DECKS - Permit Required ✅
Always need permit for:
New pool deck installation
Pool deck replacement
Expanding pool deck
Overlay installation on existing concrete
Any work within 10 feet of pool
Permit type: Building permit (attached to original pool permit)
Why required: Pool-related work is heavily regulated for safety
Cost: $200-$400
Important: If your pool isn't permitted, this gets complicated (need pool permit first)
LARGE PATIOS - Usually Required ✅
Permit needed if:
Patio over 200 square feet
Patio attached to house (even if small)
Any elevation changes or grading
Structural elements (walls, steps)
Permit type: Building permit
Cost: $150-$300
Gray area: Detached patio under 200 sq ft at existing grade might not need permit (check with Orange County first)
WALKWAYS - Sometimes Required ⚠️
Permit needed if:
Structural walkway (raised, retaining walls)
Changes drainage patterns
In right-of-way or near street
Over 100 linear feet
Usually no permit needed:
Simple ground-level walkway
Existing grade maintained
No drainage changes
Private property only
Cost if required: $100-$200
RETAINING WALLS - Permit Required ✅
Always need permit for:
Walls over 12 inches high
Walls supporting structural load
Walls near property lines
Permit type: Building permit (may require engineer stamped plans)
Cost: $200-$500
FIRE PITS / OUTDOOR KITCHENS - Permit Required ✅
Always need permit for:
Permanent fire features
Built-in grills
Outdoor kitchens
Gas/electric connections
Permit type: Building permit + possibly plumbing/electrical permits
Cost: $300-$600 (multiple permits)
How Do I Know If My Specific Paver Project Needs a Permit?
Follow this 3-step process:
Step 1: Identify Your Project Type
What are you building?
Driveway
Pool deck
Patio (size: ___ sq ft)
Walkway
Retaining wall (height: ___ inches)
Other: ___________
Step 2: Check Your Location
Different jurisdictions, different rules:
City of Orlando:
Call: (407) 246-2269
Visit: Orlando Building Department, 400 S Orange Ave
Unincorporated Orange County:
Call: (407) 836-5550
Visit: Orange County Building Dept, 201 S Rosalind Ave
Winter Park:
Call: (407) 599-3278
Different rules than Orlando/Orange County
Often more strict requirements
Windermere, Maitland, Apopka, etc.:
Each city has own building department
Google "[City Name] building permits"
Step 3: Call and Ask Directly
What to say:
"Hi, I'm planning to install [paver driveway/patio/etc] at [your address]. It's [size] square feet. Do I need a permit?"
Information they'll ask:
Property address
Project type and size
New construction or replacement
Any grading or elevation changes
Attached to house or detached
They'll tell you yes/no and what permit(s) you need.
Pro Tip: If you're hiring a licensed contractor, they should handle this research and tell you permit requirements as part of their quote.
Red flag: Contractor says "you don't need a permit" for driveway or pool deck - they're wrong or lying
How to Get Paver Installation Permit in Orange County (Step-by-Step)
Option 1: Hire Licensed Contractor (They Handle Everything)
Licensed contractors pull permits as part of installation:
They know exact requirements
They have relationships with permit office
They submit plans and applications
They schedule inspections
Permit cost included in their quote
This is the easy way. You do nothing except approve plans.
Option 2: DIY Permit Application
If doing DIY installation, you pull permits yourself:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
What you need:
Property survey (shows property lines)
Site plan drawing (showing where pavers will go)
Elevation drawings (if changing grades)
Drainage plan (showing water flow)
Material specifications
Your ID and proof you own property
Site plan must show:
Property dimensions
House location
Existing structures
Proposed paver location
Setbacks from property lines
Drainage arrows
You can draw this yourself, but it must be to scale and accurate.
Step 2: Submit Application
In-person submission:
Go to Orange County Building Department (201 S Rosalind Ave)
Bring all documents
Fill out application form
Pay permit fee
Get application number
Online submission (for some permit types):
Visit Orange County ePlan Review system
Upload documents
Pay online
Get confirmation email
Step 3: Plan Review
Timeline: 2-4 weeks typically
What happens:
Building department reviews plans
Checks code compliance
May request corrections/changes
Issues approval or rejection
If rejected: Fix issues they note, resubmit (no additional fee usually)
Step 4: Permit Issued
Once approved:
Pay final permit fee if any
Receive permit placard
Post placard at job site (required)
Note inspection requirements
Step 5: Schedule Inspections
Required inspections for paver projects:
Pre-pour inspection (before placing pavers):
Inspector checks base preparation
Verifies proper depth and materials
Checks drainage slope
Approves edge restraints
Final inspection (after completion):
Inspector checks finished work
Verifies matches approved plans
Checks drainage actually works
Issues certificate of completion
How to schedule:
Call inspection line: (407) 836-5550
Request at least 24 hours advance
Inspector comes within 1-2 business days
Step 6: Pass Inspections and Close Permit
If you pass:
Permit is closed/finaled
You get completion certificate
Work is legal and on record
If you fail:
Fix noted issues
Request re-inspection
No additional fee for first re-inspection
Average total timeline: 3-5 weeks from application to final approval
How Much Do Paver Installation Permits Cost?
Orange County permit fees (2025 rates):
Driveway permits:
Under 500 sq ft: $150-$200
500-1000 sq ft: $200-$300
Over 1000 sq ft: $300-$450
Pool deck permits:
New pool deck: $200-$400
Pool deck replacement: $200-$350
Overlay installation: $150-$300
Patio permits:
Under 300 sq ft: $150-$250
300-600 sq ft: $250-$350
Over 600 sq ft: $350-$500
Retaining wall permits:
Under 3 feet high: $200-$300
3-6 feet high: $300-$600 (may need engineer plans)
Over 6 feet: $600+ (engineer required)
Additional fees:
Plan review fee: Usually included in base permit fee
Re-inspection fee: $75 per re-inspection after first failure
Expedited review: $500-$1,000 additional (gets 1-week review)
Right-of-way permits (separate):
If driveway connects to public street: $100-$300 additional
HOA review fees (not government, but required):
Many HOAs charge: $50-$200 for design review
Total typical cost for driveway project:
Orange County permit: $200-$300
HOA fee: $50-$150 (if applicable)
Total: $250-$450
This is small compared to $10,000-$15,000 installation cost.
HOA Approval for Paver Installation (Separate from Permits)
Important: HOA approval is NOT the same as building permit. You need both.
Which Orlando Areas Have HOAs?
HOAs are common in:
Winter Park (most neighborhoods)
Windermere (most communities)
Celebration (all properties)
Baldwin Park
Lake Nona (newer developments)
Dr. Phillips (gated communities)
Any gated community anywhere
No HOA typically in:
Older Orlando neighborhoods
Unincorporated county areas
Properties built before 1980s
Check your closing documents if unsure.
HOA Design Review Process
Step 1: Get HOA application
Request from property manager or HOA board
Often available on HOA website
Sometimes called "Architectural Review Committee" (ARC) application
Step 2: Submit design plans
What HOAs want to see:
Site plan showing paver location
Paver color and style samples
Photos of similar installations
Contractor information (licensed, insured)
Proof of Orange County permit application
Step 3: Wait for approval
Timeline varies wildly:
Some HOAs: 1-2 weeks
Others: 4-8 weeks (monthly board meetings)
Celebration: 2-3 weeks typically
Winter Park HOAs: 3-6 weeks
Step 4: Get written approval
You need approval IN WRITING before starting work.
Verbal "yes" from neighbor on HOA board doesn't count.
Common HOA Requirements for Pavers:
✅ Specific paver colors (earth tones usually)
✅ Licensed contractor only (no DIY)
✅ Professional design/layout
✅ Matching house style
✅ No loud colors or patterns
✅ Proper drainage plan
✅ Timeline for completion
What If HOA Rejects Your Design?
They'll tell you why:
Wrong color (doesn't match neighborhood)
Wrong style (too modern for traditional neighborhood)
Too large (exceeds coverage limits)
Missing information
Fix the issues they note and resubmit.
Local Pavers LLC handles HOA approvals:
We've submitted 300+ successful HOA applications in:
Baldwin Park
We know what each HOA wants before we submit. First-time approval rate: 97%.
What Happens If You Install Pavers Without Required Permit?
Spoiler: Nothing good.
Consequence #1: Fines and Penalties
If code enforcement finds out:
Initial fine: $500-$1,000
Daily fines: $100-$250 per day until corrected
Must apply for permit retroactively
Pay 2x normal permit fee (penalty)
Real Orlando example (2024):Homeowner installed driveway without permit. Neighbor reported to code enforcement.
Fine: $1,000
Retroactive permit fee: $600 (double normal)
Had to expose base for inspection
Total cost: $1,600 in fines + $800 to remove/replace pavers for inspection
Could have just paid $300 permit upfront.
Consequence #2: Insurance Claims Denied
Unpermitted work voids coverage:
Water damage from improper drainage? Denied.
Someone trips and sues? Denied.
Hurricane damage? Might be denied.
Insurance companies check if work was permitted when processing major claims.
Consequence #3: Cannot Sell House
Title companies find unpermitted work:
Pre-sale inspection reveals issues
Buyer's mortgage lender requires compliance
Must retroactively permit OR remove work
Delays closing by 4-8 weeks
Real Winter Park example:Seller installed pool deck without permit 5 years ago. At sale:
Title company flagged issue
Had to get retroactive permit: $800
Failed inspection (base wasn't to code)
Had to tear out and reinstall properly: $9,000
Lost buyer, had to relist
That $300 permit would have ensured proper installation and saved $9,000.
Consequence #4: HOA Fines
If HOA finds out:
Immediate violation notice
Fine: $100-$500
Daily fines until corrected: $50-$100/day
Must remove unapproved work
Can place lien on property
Consequence #5: Contractor Liability
If contractor installed without permit:
Contractor can be fined $1,000-$5,000
Contractor license suspended
You still liable for getting permit
This is why licensed contractors always pull permits.
Unlicensed "contractors" who skip permits:
Are breaking the law
Leave YOU holding the bag
Disappear when problems arise
Should You Pull Permits Yourself or Hire Licensed Contractor?
Licensed Contractor Handles Permits ✅
Advantages:
They know exact requirements
Relationships with permit office (faster)
Handle all paperwork
Schedule inspections
Guarantee work passes inspection
Permit cost included in quote
Legal responsibility if something's wrong
Disadvantages:
Slightly more expensive overall (their time is billed)
Best for:
Large projects (driveways, pool decks)
Complex projects (grading, drainage)
First-time paver installation
Anyone who values time over DIY effort
DIY Permit Pulling
Advantages:
Save contractor markup on permit work
Learn the process
Direct control over timeline
Disadvantages:
Time consuming (hours at permit office)
Confusing process if first time
Must do plan drawings yourself
YOU schedule inspections
YOU responsible if work doesn't pass
No contractor warranty
Best for:
Simple, small projects (walkways)
Experienced DIYers
People with time to spare
The Reality:
For typical $10,000 driveway:
DIY permit pulling saves: $200-$500
But you spend: 10-15 hours dealing with permits
And risk: Failing inspection, having to redo work
Most homeowners hire contractors for projects requiring permits.
DIY makes sense for small, non-structural projects under $3,000.
If hiring contractor, verify:
Florida contractor license (check MyFloridaLicense.com)
They pull permits (not "you handle permits")
Permit cost included in written quote
They schedule all inspections
Paver Permit Requirements: Orlando vs Winter Park vs Windermere
Not all Central Florida cities have same rules:
City of Orlando
Strictness: Moderate
Permit required for: Most paver projects over 100 sq ft
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Cost: $150-$400
Contact: (407) 246-2269
Notes: Online permit system available, relatively straightforward process
Unincorporated Orange County
Strictness: Moderate
Permit required for: Most paver projects, depends on size
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Cost: $150-$450
Contact: (407) 836-5550
Notes: Larger jurisdiction, slightly slower but thorough
Winter Park
Strictness: Strict
Permit required for: Almost all paver work
Timeline: 3-6 weeks
Cost: $200-$500
Contact: (407) 599-3278
Notes: Historic preservation concerns, HOA-heavy, more detailed plan review
Windermere
Strictness: Very Strict
Permit required for: All exterior work
Timeline: 4-8 weeks
Cost: $200-$600
Contact: (407) 876-2563
Notes: Luxury community standards, aesthetic requirements, HOAs nearly universal
Celebration
Strictness: Very Strict
Permit required for: Everything visible from street
Timeline: 3-6 weeks
Cost: $200-$500 + HOA fee
Contact: Town of Celebration Building Dept
Notes: Master-planned community, strict design standards, mandatory HOA approval
Maitland, Apopka, Ocoee, etc.
Each has own building department with unique requirements. Always check with specific city.
City | Strictness | Typical Timeline | Typical Cost |
Orlando | Moderate | 2-4 weeks | $150-$400 |
Orange County | Moderate | 2-4 weeks | $150-$450 |
Winter Park | Strict | 3-6 weeks | $200-$500 |
Windermere | Very Strict | 4-8 weeks | $200-$600 |
Celebration | Very Strict | 3-6 weeks | $200-$500 |
What Do Inspectors Check During Paver Installation Inspection?
Pre-installation (base) inspection:
Inspector verifies:
Excavation depth (8-9 inches typically)
Geotextile fabric installed
Base material type (crushed aggregate, not sand)
Base depth (6-7 inches compacted)
Proper compaction (may test with probe)
Edge restraints in place
Drainage slope (2% away from structures)
Setbacks from property lines met
Matches approved site plan
If anything is wrong, you must correct before proceeding.
Final inspection (after installation):
Inspector verifies:
Pavers installed per plan
Level and stable surface
Proper drainage (may run water test)
Joints filled with appropriate material
Edge restraints properly secured
No trip hazards
Matches approved plans
Professional workmanship
Inspector may also check:
Work done by licensed contractor (if required)
Materials match specifications
No damage to adjacent property
Site cleaned up
Pro tip from Local Pavers LLC:
We text customers photos of base preparation before inspection so they can see everything is correct. Inspector visits, approves in 10 minutes, we continue work same day.
Proper preparation = inspections are formality, not obstacle.
Navigate Orange County Paver Permits the Easy Way
When you need permits in Orlando/Orange County:
✅ Driveways (almost always)
✅ Pool decks (always)
✅ Large patios (over 200 sq ft usually)
✅ Retaining walls (over 12 inches
)✅ Structural work (any grading changes)
Timeline: 2-6 weeks
Cost: $150-$500 typically
Plus HOA approval if applicable: 2-8 additional weeks
Local Pavers LLC Handles All Permits & HOA Approvals:
We include permits in every project:
Orange County building permits
Right-of-way permits if needed
HOA design review applications
All inspections scheduled
300+ successful permit applications
No permit failures in 500+ projects
Permit costs included in quote. You do nothing.
📞 Call (689) 221-5641 for free consultation.
More Contractor & Installation Guides:
→ 10 Questions to Ask Paver ContractorsVerify contractor handles permits properly
→ 5 Signs Contractors Cut Corners on Base PrepUnpermitted work often means cut corners
→ Why Choose Local Pavers LLC?See how we handle permits and inspections
→ Cost Calculator: Pavers vs ConcretePermits included in all estimates
About Local Pavers LLC
We've pulled 500+ successful paver installation permits across Orange County, Winter Park, Windermere, and Celebration. We know every building department's requirements and have professional relationships that speed the process.
Permits and HOA approvals included in every project. We handle the bureaucracy so you don't have to.
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