Bathroom Remodel Permit Requirements in St. Johns County, FL
St. Johns County Building Services issues all residential permits (building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roof, pool) for unincorporated county land outside the City of St. Augustine and City of St. Augustine Beach. Codes in force: Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) residential and building, NEC 2020, ASCE 7-22 wind design. County is in the wind-borne debris region (not HVHZ, which is only Miami-Dade and Broward). Impact-rated windows and doors or approved storm shutters required for residential openings. Septic permits handled by Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County at (904) 506-6081. Driveways on county roads go through St. Johns County Road and Bridge; driveways on US-1 or I-95 require FDOT approval. Historic district overlays may apply in some areas. Licensed FL CILB contractors required for most trades; owner-builder allowed under F.S. 489.103(7) for homesteaded primary residence with personal supervision affidavit.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified April 20, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Bathroom permit in St. Johns County
Cosmetic bathroom updates (new tile, paint, vanity replacement in the same location) do not require a permit as long as no plumbing or electrical changes are made.
When you need a Bathroom permit in St. Johns County
A bathroom remodel that moves or adds plumbing fixtures requires building and plumbing permits. Florida-licensed plumbers are required for plumbing work under F.S. 489. If the home is on a septic system, the Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County must verify capacity at (904) 506-6081 when fixtures are added.
Adding a new bathroom requires building, plumbing, and electrical permits. Florida-licensed plumbers and electricians are required. Ventilation per FBCR M1505 is needed. If on septic, the new fixture count must be approved by the Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County at (904) 506-6081.
Bathroom Remodel Permit Costs: St. Johns County vs. Nearby
St. Johns County's fees are right in line with the Florida average, $150 – $700 versus $173 – $573 statewide.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| St. Johns County | $150 – $700 |
| Jacksonville | $100 – $400 |
| Miami | $195 – $1,300 |
| Tampa | $135 – $900 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all St. Johns County permit costs →
Zoning & HOA Considerations
If you live in an HOA community: interior bathroom remodels rarely require HOA approval. However, if the work involves exterior changes (new vents, windows, or plumbing cleanouts), check your CC&Rs first.
Estimated Project Timeline in St. Johns County
Here's a typical timeline for a bathroom remodel project in St. Johns County, FL:
Timeline is based on St. Johns County's typical about 3 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
Need a Bathroom permit in St. Johns County, FL?
Answer a few quick questions for a personalized answer about your specific project.
Check Now, Free →Building Department Contact
Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Bathroom Remodel projects in St. Johns County, FL range from $150 – $700. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Bathroom Remodel projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in St. Johns County can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Bathroom Remodel permits in St. Johns County is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate, you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.
Learn More About Bathroom Remodel Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Bathroom Remodel Guide →