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Building Division

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1. How do I request an inspection on my active permit?

Inspection requests and results are available by contacting the building department at 954.753.5447. Schedule an inspection through the City of Parkland’s Electronic Permitting Site.

2. What is a Business Tax Receipt, and how do I obtain an application and more information?

A Business Tax Receipt, formerly known as an Occupational License, is required if your commercial or home business is physically located in the City of Parkland. Visit the Commercial Business Tax Receipts page for additional information, printable applications, and contact information.

3. What is the purpose of the Notice of Commencement form?

A certified copy of the recorded Notice of Commencement must be submitted to the Building Division prior to the first inspection for permitted work where the direct contract is greater than $2,500, or in the case of existing heating or A/C equipment replacement, greater than $7,500. For more information, please see the Overview of the Construction Lien Law Posted on this site.

4. What information is required when I want to change contractors?

Broward County Administrative Provisions, Section 104.9.4 sets forth the requirements for notification of all interested parties, and for protection of public employees from legal ramifications in the event of a change of contractor. If a building permit has been issued to a contractor who is unwilling or unable to complete the contract, another permit may subsequently be issued to another contractor. The Change of Contractor form must be filled out and signed where required. Along with this, you must also submit proof of certified mail to the contractor of notification that he is no longer the qualifier for the job, and a new permit application from the new contractor. See also Florida Statutes 489.126 for further information.

5. When do I need to fill out an Owner-Builder Exemption form?

The completed Owner-Builder Exemption form must be submitted with any Owner-Builder Permit Application.

6. When is the Product Approval Schedule/Comparison Chart submitted?

The Florida Building Code mandates that all components in the Building Envelope must be products which are “approved” for use as shown on your plans. This Schedule is to be completed for all new construction, including remodeling, in which windows, doors, skylights, vents, and other products are to be incorporated into the exterior walls and/or roof of a building. Each product must be an “approved” product as outlined by the Florida Building Code. All products must also be approved for use by your Architect or Engineer of Record, and the Tested Pressure of each product (size-specific) must meet or exceed the Design Pressure specified by the A/E of Record. This addendum to your permit plans, consisting of this Schedule and all referenced product approval documentation, must be submitted early in the construction process, usually before the Tie Beam inspection can be scheduled, and must be approved by our plans examiner prior to the installation of the referenced products.

7. What is a Homeowner Survey Affidavit, and when is it required?

A survey which is submitted as part of a permit application should be no more than one year old. It must show all existing structures, easements, and rights-of-way. The Homeowner Survey Affidavit enables the homeowner to attest that the existing survey does show all required data, and it is required to be submitted with any survey which is more than one year old.

8. When do I need to submit the A/C & Mechanical Replacement Information Form?

Two copies of this summary sheet must be submitted with a permit application for the replacement of Air Conditioning equipment.

9. New Pools, and Pools completed on or after October 1, 2000:

New pools, and pools which had not received a final inspection until October 1, 2000, are governed by the Pool Safety Act, which has been fine-tuned and is now incorporated within the Florida Building Code.

The Pool Safety Act requirements are as stringent as they are complex. The basic requirement is that any new pool must be built with protection by means of fence, screen enclosure, alarms, baby barrier, or a combination of these components which serves to provide a barrier to entrance to the pool from all directions, for 360 degrees around the pool.

Access the 424.2.17 residential swimming barrier requirement online (a part of the Florida Building Code), then select Florida Building Code 2007, the Building volume, Chapter 4, Section 424.2.17.

Existing Pools Completed After May 22, 1996 But Before September 30, 2000: On May 22, 1996, the City passed a fence ordinance requiring a minimum 4’-high fence, with self-closing, self-locking gate(s), or a screen enclosure, around any pool which had not yet been completed, or for which the final inspection had not yet been approved. However, there is an exception for a property located on a waterway: no fence is required along the plot line(s) bounded by water. And, exempted from these enclosure requirements are pools located in A-1, AE-1, and AE-2 zoning districts, such as Tall Pines, Pinetree Estates, and the Ranches.

City Ordinance 22-88(6) may be found among the ordinances posted at Municode, or visit the City of Parkland website.

Existing Pools Completed Prior To May 22, 1996: There were no code-mandated requirements for a new pool completed prior to May 22, 1996 to have a fence or screen enclosure.

10. When do I need an electrical permit?

The code requires that an electrical permit be obtained prior to adding to, or extending any high or low voltage electrical circuit. The only work that clearly does not require a permit is the direct replacement of a fan or fixture with a fan or a fixture. Extension cords may never be used in lieu of permanent wiring.

11. Can we arrange for temporary power during construction?

Yes. Your electrical contractor can apply for a permit to install a temporary pole or a temporary underground service (TUGS). Contact your Florida Power and Light (FPL) Service Planner to determine which method is appropriate for your job site.

12. What is the 30-day Electrical Testing Connection Application?

This form is part of the requirement to obtain temporary power for testing of electrical equipment. See the Building Division FAQ "We're almost finished with the job, when can the power be turned on in the building?" for more information.

13. We're almost finished with the job, when can the power be turned on in the building?

The electrical contractor and the general contractor or owner may apply for a “30-day Electrical Testing Connection” Permit after the electrical installation is complete. If, after inspection, the installation is deemed to be safe by the electrical inspector, the building power may be connected for the purpose of testing equipment and verifying circuiting. This is not a substitute for a certificate of occupancy and does not allow final use of the structure.

14. How can I get help in hiring a licensed contractor?

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation regulates contractor licensing in the State of Florida. There is a lot of information available online regarding your role in hiring a contractor. You can also verify licensure status online. The most comprehensive source of information can be found on the DBPR website, which can be accessed at MyFlorida.com. Local Licensing is under the jurisdiction of the Broward County Central Examining Board, and information can be found at broward.org/building.

15. I recently moved into this house and find that there is an "expired permit" or "work without permit" problem at this address. Is this my problem now?

Yes. All construction work which is required to be permitted is the responsibility of the current property owner. Please contact the Building Division at 954.753.5447 to discuss procedures specific to your situation for obtaining a permit and bringing the work into compliance.

16. When is a permit required?

A permit is required for work on your property involving physical changes to an existing structure, or the addition of a new structure. Some examples are: new construction, building alterations, room additions, driveways, pools, screen enclosures, fences, pavers, re-roofing work, garage conversions, air conditioning unit replacement, new electrical service, rewiring, replacement of exterior doors and windows, hot water heater replacement, change of use or occupancy, structural repairs, and the demolition or removal of structures including pools, screen enclosures and fences. This listing is not meant to be complete; if you are unsure whether or not a permit is required for your project, please call the Building Division.

Note: a permit, where required, must be applied for and acquired before any such work may commence.

17. What is required when applying for a permit?

In general, two copies of a complete, current survey and two sets of signed and sealed plans must be submitted with the permit application for review. When your plans are fully approved, you will pick up your permit along with one set of plans for your use during construction and inspections. Note that there are many types of permits for which the submittal requirements may be different. Please call the Building Division for specific information.

18. As a homeowner, what is the benefit to me of the permitting process?

Life safety is the focus of building codes and related codes and standards. The permitting process, established by Florida Statutes, the Florida Building Code and the Broward County Administrative Provisions, Chapter 1 of the FBC, requires the Building Division to verify that the contractor and subcontractors working on your job are properly licensed and insured, that the plans submitted meet minimum code requirements, that work is inspected at key points during construction, that these inspections are approved before construction can proceed, and that a final inspection is approved in order to close out the permit.

19. Can I apply for an Owner-Builder Permit for my project?

Florida law, specifically Florida Statutes Chapter 489, requires construction to be done by licensed contractors. There is, however, an exemption which allows a property owner to act as his own contractor, as long as certain specific requirements are met. These are outlined in Section 489.103(7). Please review the current version of this law on-line, and refer to the owner-builder Disclosure Statement and the owner-builder questionnaire, posted on this site, which must be completed and submitted with an owner-builder permit application. As noted in this documentation, you may not hire an unlicensed person as your contractor; you must supervise the construction yourself; anyone working under your supervision (other than licensed and insured contractors) must be employed by you, and you must deduct FICA and withholding tax and provide worker’s compensation insurance for that employee; and you may not offer the building (or building with improvement) for sale or lease within one year after construction is complete.

20. How can I tell whether or not a Permit has been issued for a particular project?

Please contact the Building Division. We can access permit information in the computer system by address, owner, or contractor. This information is not available on-line at this time.

21. My Permit Application has not yet been approved. May I begin the work?

No, an approved Permit must be obtained and posted at the job-site with the approved plans prior to the commencement of any work. The Florida Building Code provides for substantial penalties for working without a permit.

22. What is meant by a "current" survey?

A survey which is submitted as part of a permit application must be no more than one year old, and must show all existing structures, easements, and rights-of-way.

23. When is a permit not required?

All work where exempt from permit shall still be required to comply with the Code. A permit is generally not required for maintenance or repairs, including repairs of roof coverings, which do not affect occupancy and which are valued at less than $1,500 in labor and materials as determined by the Building Official. A permit is not required for interior or exterior painting, for repairs of leaks, unstopping of sewers or waste pipes, repairing faucets or valves, cleaning of septic tanks, or for placement of chemical toilets on construction sites.

24. What are the procedures for plan review?

All plans submitted with a permit application must be reviewed for code compliance. Structural, Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical reviews are conducted by certified plans examiners within the Building Division, and plans are also reviewed by the Zoning Director, the Landscape Reviewer, and the City Engineer and Fire Marshall if required. Each plan submittal is routed to the appropriate divisions and departments based on the scope of the proposed work.

25. I have approved plans, and need to make a plan change. What is the procedure?

Permit application signed by home owner and qualifier, and two sets of plans.

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City Clerk's Office

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1. When are the City Commission meetings held? Can anyone attend?

The City Commission meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
Regular meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., and are held in the City of Parkland Commission Chambers, 6600 University Drive, Parkland, Fl. On occasion, the City Commission may hold a Workshop or a Special Meeting, and these meetings begin at 6:00 p.m.
All City Commission meetings are open to the public and anyone can attend.

2. Can I address the City Commission at any of the meetings?

City Commission Meetings are business meetings and the right to limit discussion rests with the Commission. Anyone may address the City Commission during Public Input on Non-Agenda Items. Generally, remarks by an individual will be limited to three minutes.

3. Are the City Commission agenda, agenda backup material and minutes on your website?

Yes. This information is accessible on the City’s website. The web portal, to download agendas and minutes is, www.cityofparkland.org/cc.

4. When is the City Commission agenda and agenda backup material available on the website?

The City Commission agendas and packets are generally posted the Friday prior to the Wednesday Commission meeting.

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Engineering

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1. How do I apply for an Engineering Permit?

To apply for a City of Parkland Engineering Permit applicants must complete the required application and pay the appropriate fees. The form is available for pickup at the Building Department. The engineering permit fees are 2% of the anticipated construction cost for work related to water and sewer and 5% of the anticipated construction cost for all other types of activity. In addition to the permit fees there is a plan review cost that varies from $150 (minimum) to in excess of $700 depending on the magnitude of the project size. View the Engineering Permit application (PDF).

2. How do I Bond a project and subsequently release said bond upon completion of work?

A bond is typically required for new construction or work within a City of Parkland designated right of way. Bonding requirements are defined in Section 145-150 and 145-160 of the Code of Ordinance and information on the Bonding process (PDF) can be found here. View bond release information here (PDF). All bond release request must be processed through the City Clerk’s Department.

3. How do I find out information on City Capital projects?

For information on major Capital Projects feel free to contact the City’s Engineering Department for updates on active Capital Projects. However, the City has created a Capital Projects page that will provide updates on a monthly basis.

4. How do I process a traffic signal operation request within the City?

Contact the city engineer at 954.757.4184. Visit the Broward County Traffic Division website.

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Environmental

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1. Is a permit required to remove a tree, palm or hedge?

Yes, a permit is required to remove a tree.

• No person, organization, society, association, or corporation or any agent or representative thereof, directly or indirectly, shall clear land, cut down, destroy, or move or effectively destroy through damaging any tree which has attained a caliper dimension of at least two inches and is situated on property described above without first obtaining a permit as herein provided.


• A tree removal penalty fee of $500 shall be charged for each tree removed without a permit.


• This fee shall be in addition to any other remedy available to the city pursuant to this section.

2. What type of tree does not require a tree removal permit?

View the Nuisance Plant List to see the species that are exempt from regulations regarding removal.

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Finance

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1. What is the City’s Millage Rate for Fiscal Year 2021?

4.2979 mills

2. What is the Fire Assessment per residential unit?

$250

3. What is the Solid Waste Assessment per residential unit?

$389.28

4. What is the City’s total budget for Fiscal Year 2021?

$48,095,550

5. What is the City’s General Fund budget for Fiscal Year 2021?

$41,733,000

6. What is the City’s Capital budget for Fiscal Year 2021?

$4,895,000

7. What are the major capital projects for Fiscal Year 2021?

Pine Trails Park Field Improvements $1,800,000; Terramar Park Baseball Field Reconfiguration $1,150,000; Terramar Park Field and Parking Lot Expansion $370,000; University Drive/Old Club Road Roundabout $200,000; City Hall Interior Renovations $150,000; Terramar Park Playground Improvements $500,000

8. How many employee positions are budgeted for Fiscal Year 2021?

103 full-time and 50 part-time, totaling 153 positions

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Human Resources

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1. How do I apply for a job?

The City of Parkland has adopted a paperless online employment system designed to help you find the job or volunteer opportunity that you are looking for, faster and easier. We do not accept unsolicited resumes or paper applications.  Please note that you must submit an application for each position for which you are applying and applications must be received by the indicated deadline date. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For a list of available opportunities and to apply online, please visit our career opportunities page.  You can create an account and select a username and password.  After your account as been established, you can build an application by clicking on the “Build Job Application” link.  Your application can be saved and used to apply for more than one job opening.

See Current Job Opportunities

2. What happens after I apply for a job?

You will receive a confirmation message displayed on the screen immediately after you successfully complete your application. Due to the volume of applications, every candidate meeting the minimum qualifications cannot be guaranteed an interview and the screening process can take several weeks to complete.  Candidates are selected for an interview based on education and work experience most closely matching the requirements of the position and may be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to, evaluation of training and experience, written test, oral test and performance test.

3. If I previously completed an application, will I automatically be considered for other positions?

No. You must submit a separate application for each position in which you are interested in. Your application is evaluated on how well your qualification (training, education and experience) match the particular position you are applying for.

4. Who conducts the selection for interviews?

The City’s objective is to hire the best person for the position. Human Resources recruits, screens, and tests applicants (when applicable) based upon requirements for the position in order to create a pool of eligible candidates for consideration. The supervisors or managers in the department where the vacancy actually exists then review this pool of candidates, evaluate each candidate’s qualifications for the particular job and select who they want to interview.

5. What happens after the interview?

Interviewed applicants are ranked and scored based on the results of their interview. Once a hiring decision is made, applicants are notified by email.

6. How can I volunteer?

The City of Parkland only accepts online volunteer applications for opportunities that are currently open.

Link to Volunteer Opportunities

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Information Technology

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1. How many people are in the Information Services Division?

It is comprised of four individuals, an IT Director, an IT Manager, an IT Specialist, and a full-time Help Desk person.

2. Where is the primary data center for the City?

It is located in City Hall.

3. How many service requests does the department handle per month?

On average 110 service requests per month.

4. What type of server environment does the City have?

We have a mixed environment that includes virtual servers and physical servers.

5. How many locations does the City have networking, servers, and computer infrastructure?

The City currently supports five locations: Public Safety (City Owned Equipment), Library, Public Works, City Hall, and Parks & Recreation.

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Library

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1. How do I renew or reserve from the Library?

Items can be renewed or reserved by calling 954.757.4200 or by going to the Library’s webpage. Once on the webpage, click the tab that says catalog and account. Once the item you would like to borrow is located in the catalog, click the looking glass called details. This will take you to the page where you will be able to reserve the item. To renew or reserve, sign in with your username and password. Your username is your library card number. Your password is the last 4 digits of the phone number you used when registering for your library card. If the username and password are not working, please call the Library so that the information can be reset. The reset takes less than 5 minutes.

2. How do I get a library card?

Library card applications can be completed in person at the Library.
Proof of residency in the City of Parkland is required. Driver's license, picture ID, voter's registration or utility bill with Parkland address are accepted.
Non-resident students, business owners, teachers, and visitors may be eligible. See About The Library / Basic Services for more information.

3. What is my user name and password?

Your user name is your library card number. Your password is the last four digits of your telephone number.

4. Do you proctor exams?

The Parkland Library staff is available to proctor examinations for students taking distance or online courses. Exam materials can be sent to the Library prior to the scheduled exam date. There is a service fee for Parkland residents of $10 per exam. The non-resident fee is $20 per exam. Contact the Library in advance to schedule.

5. What is Storytime and how do I register?

Storytime is a fun way for kids to learn. Learn more about Storytime programs and register here.

6. Do you have study rooms?

We do not have private rooms for individual or group study. The Library meeting room may be used if it is available.

7. Does the Library have ebooks?

Yes, the Library has ebooks available from three different platforms. Access to the ebooks is found on the Library’s webpage. Once on the webpage, click the link to ebooks. Two of the platforms can be used as an app: 3M Cloud Library and Odilo. The third platform, Hoopla, is used as a webpage. Should you have questions about how to use e-books with your particular electronic device, please call the Library or check on the instructions at the website. The Library is building a substantial collection of e-books and new items are added on a weekly basis.

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Other Agency Approvals

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1.

2. Do my plans require Broward County Development and Environmental Review?

It depends, projects such as Single Family Residences, free-standing out-buildings, commercial buildings, and certain other projects are subject to review by the Environmental Protection and Growth Management Department, Development and Environmental Review (DER). They will provide you with a Broward County Transportation Concurrency Satisfaction Certificate and a Broward County Environmental Review Approval Certificate which must be submitted to us with your permit. The entire DER process is online. All plan review must be submitted electronically via the ePermits website. View the Broward County Development and Environmental Review Guide (PDF) for a more detailed description of projects that require DER. If you have any questions regarding this process, please call 954.357.6666 ext. 2.

3. When do I need to take my plans to the Broward County Health Department?

In the Pinetree Estates, Ranches, and Country Acres Subdivisions, permitting for a Private (Potable) Water System and Septic Tank & Drainfield System is under the jurisdiction of the Health Department. A copy of the well and septic tank permits and the Health Department stamps on the plans are required prior to submittal to the Building Division for permit.

4. When do I need to apply to South Florida Water Management for a permit?

Non-residential projects may require a water-use permit. Please visit the South Florida Water Management District website to review the requirements.

5. When do I need to apply to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for a permit?

Residential and non-residential projects of one acre or more may require a surface-water management permit. Visit the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program website for information on requirements for permitting. Proof of your compliance will be required prior to the issuance of a building permit for your project.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. How do I contact a Park Ranger?

During Park operating hours, the Park Rangers can be reached by calling 954.913.0496.

2. Are dogs allowed in the parks?

Dogs are prohibited in all Parks with the exception of the Equestrian Center, and Barkland.

3. Can non-residents participate in sports programs?

Yes, non-residents can participate in all City Recognized Sports Organizations with the purchase of a non-resident membership to the desired league. 

4. Do I need to be Parkland resident to reserve a pavilion?

Yes. The large pavilions located within Terramar Park, Pine Trails Park, Quigley Park, Liberty Park and the Equestrian Center are only available to Parkland Residents.

5. Where is the Parkland Farmer's Market located?

8350 Ranch Road, Parkland FL 33067 On Holmberg Road in between University Drive and 441 on the north side of Holmberg Road.

6. When can you register for senior field trip outings and class programs?

The registration takes place the Monday following a prior field trip outing starting at 8:00 A.M. Space is limited and is on a first come / fist served basis. The Senior Program is limited to Parkland residents ages 62 and older.

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Planning and Zoning Division

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1. Where can I find the City's Code?

The City's Code of Ordinances is accessible via Municode.

2. Where can I locate a map of the City?

The City has street maps available for purchase. Please see the city receptionist for a map and associated cost. View an interactive map gallery and/or static map gallery here.

3. How do I contact my homeowners Association?

View Parkland Homeowner's Associations point of contacts (PDF).

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Public Information Office

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1. How do I sign up for the City's e-mail newsletter?

Sign up for the City’s e-blast here.

2. How can I become a sponsor of a City event or program?

The City has many opportunities for businesses to sponsor programs and events that will provide valuable marketing resources for your business. For more information please contact the Public Information Office at 954.757.4126.

3. Can I comment on a Facebook photo or post?

The City of Parkland does not allow comments on any type of posting. Regardless of content, all comments will be removed from the City of Parkland Facebook page.

City of Parkland Facebook Page

4. My son/daughter was just recognized for an achievement. How can I have them recognized by the City?

Congratulations on the achievement. If you know of any Parkland resident individual, group, or team that is deserving of recognition, please email the Public Information Officer and provide the information.

5. How can I receive text messages?

Sign up to receive text alerts from the City. Receive text alerts by texting “ParklandInfo” to 888-777.

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Public Works

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1. Who do I contact for garbage and recycling collection issues?

You can contact Waste Management Customer Service at 954.974.7500.

2. Who do I contact to report a streetlight or power outage?

You can contact Florida Power and Light at 954.797.5000 or visit their website.

3. Who do I contact to report a missing, found, wild, or dead animal?

You can contact the Broward County Animal Care and Regulation Division at 954.359.1313.

4. I am a new resident and what is the process for recycling in the City of Parkland?

The City of Parkland requires that residential property owners recycle and utilize Waste Management for the collection of recyclable materials. Waste Management will provide each residential customer with one - 64 gallon rollout cart (white with green lid) which is to be used for all accepted recyclable materials. Pick-up of recyclable materials occurs once per week and shall be placed curbside with the regular garbage on your scheduled recycling day. Acceptable materials include:
Newspapers and inserts
Plastic containers, number 1 - 7
Magazines, catalogs, and phone books
Juice boxes, cardboard boxes flattened
Glass bottles and jars
Steel, tin, and aluminum cans
Office paper and junk mail
Cereal and tissue boxes

5. I just pruned my trees and shrubs, how do I dispose of the yard waste?

Horticultural debris consisting of grass clippings, palm fronds, or small tree branches are collected on the same day as trash pick-up, but must be separated from the trash debris. Tree branches must be bundled and tied with string and must not exceed four feet in length, four inches in diameter, and 40 lbs. in weight per bundle. Tree stumps and logs will only be collected on bulk pick-up days provided they are cut properly and placed neatly at the curb.

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Required Inspections

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1. How can I schedule an inspection?

You can request an inspection using the eTRAKiT website. The system requires all users to create an account for access to the system.

Online Scheduling

2. How can I find out the results of a scheduled inspection?

The permit card posted on the job site is your record of inspection approvals. If an inspection is not approved, the inspector leaves a “red tag” on the permit board. Your duplicate copy of this document lists code sections and a brief description of the violation(s).  You can also go to www.cityofparkland.org/epermit and sign up as a public user.  There you can search the results of an inspection.

Check Inspection Results

3. How can I cancel an inspection which I have scheduled?

Either you can cancel the inspection the day before using the eTRAKiT system, or call the inspector between 7:30 - 8:00 A.M. the day of the inspection at 954.753.5447.

Cancel an Inspection

4. How can I speak to an inspector about a scheduled inspection?

Inspectors can be reached at the Building Division telephone number 954.753.5447 between 7:30 and 8:00 A.M., and are available to discuss questions you may have, or to make a specific appointment for a scheduled inspection.

5. How can I speak to an inspector about some other issue?

Please call at any time to speak with a Permit Technician regarding an inspector’s scheduled office hours; you can leave a voice-mail message, or you can speak with the Chief Inspector for more immediate assistance.

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Volunteer Parkland

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1. How much time does it take?

You can choose to volunteer once a week or once a year. Most regular volunteer opportunities are scheduled Monday through Friday, while special events may occur on weekends. Many volunteer opportunities require a time commitment of several weeks, and a set schedule is preferred, but not required.

2. Do I need a special clearance?

Some volunteer opportunities require background, fingerprinting, or other types of clearance. This may take several weeks to complete. All jobs working with children require fingerprinting.