Florida Notices of Commencement and the Permit Process

A Notice of Commencement is a recorded construction document used in Florida’s lien-law framework. Depending on project facts and local procedure, a certified copy may need to be provided to the permitting authority before the first inspection. It is separate from the building permit application even when the workflows intersect.

Prepare accurate project information

The document generally identifies the property, owner, contractor, lender when applicable, and other statutory information. Legal descriptions and ownership details should be checked against reliable records. Execution, notarization, recording, posting, and expiration questions should be handled carefully.

Coordinate timing

Recording too early can create timing concerns if work is delayed, while waiting too long may affect inspections. Confirm the permit authority’s current procedure for uploading or presenting the recorded document and make sure the field team knows any posting requirement.

Keep records aligned

Names, property information, and scope references should remain consistent across the permit application and project documents. Save the recorded instrument and recording data in the permanent project file.

This article is general information and is not legal advice. Florida lien law has project-specific exceptions and consequences; consult qualified counsel and the applicable authority when needed.