FAQs

Aruba Permit Services

  • Why do cities require building permits?

    Building permits are mandated by cities to ensure construction adheres to state, city, and fire prevention codes. These permits involve inspections to verify compliance, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of citizens. If you're dealing with expired building permits, don't hesitate to reach out to Aruba Permit Services for assistance.
  • Is a permit required for my project?

    Building permits are necessary for various projects, including new commercial buildings, tenant improvements, construction trailers, temporary power poles, new homes, mobile homes, room additions, and in-ground swimming pools. Many people are unaware that permits are also required for smaller projects such as carports, fences, sheds, re-roofing, window and door replacements, above-ground pools, HVAC changes, electrical and plumbing work, and fire protection systems. Starting a project without the proper permits can lead to increased costs, delays, and potential removal of structures. In Florida, failing to obtain a permit before beginning work may result in a penalty of double the permit fee or $450, whichever is greater. Aruba Permit Services is available to help with building code violations and expired permit issues.
  • What type of work requires a permit?

    Permits are required for a wide range of construction and renovation activities. These include new construction, additions, alterations to existing structures, fences, driveways, parking lots, roofing, swimming pools, solar pool heaters, structural changes, signage, commercial awnings, irrigation systems, tree removal, land disturbing activities, and plumbing, electrical, gas, or HVAC work. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in May 2025, privately-owned housing units authorized by building permits were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,393,000, underscoring the significance of proper permitting in residential construction. For assistance with building code violations, please contact Aruba Permit Services.
  • How long does it take for a permit to be approved?

    The approval time for permits varies depending on the type of project. Residential construction permits typically take between five to seven working days for approval or response. Commercial construction permits generally require 14 to 21 working days. Fire system permits, such as those for alarms and sprinklers, usually take seven to 10 working days for approval. If you're uncertain about your compliance status or need assistance with building code violations, please don't hesitate to contact Aruba Permit Services.
  • Why is obtaining a building permit a benefit to me as a homeowner?

    Obtaining a building permit offers several advantages to homeowners. The process involves a review by the city's building division to ensure compliance with established minimum criteria. This helps identify and rectify potential issues before non-compliant work occurs. Additionally, the permitting process verifies a contractor's license and insurance. Inspections during the process confirm that construction meets minimum code requirements. Unpermitted work can delay property transfers and is considered unsafe. Moreover, work completed without proper permits may be subject to double permit fees and could require partial or complete demolition. For assistance with building code violations, Aruba Permit Services is available to help.
  • How much can permits cost?

    The cost of building permits can vary significantly, ranging from a few hundred dollars for simple projects to thousands for large-scale endeavors. Several factors influence permit costs, including the size and complexity of the project, the value of the work, additional permits required, and the time needed for application review and site inspections. Permit pricing often follows tiers based on the project's value. Application and inspection fees for custom homes can be twice as expensive as those for registered plans. The project's square footage also affects the cost, as larger areas require more extensive inspections. It's important to note that permitting fees and requirements can differ between municipalities. If you have questions about your permit or need assistance with expired building permits, please contact Aruba Permit Services.