Garage 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 Garage permit in St. Johns County
A detached accessory structure 200 sq ft or less is exempt from a building permit per FBCR 8th Edition R105.2. County zoning setbacks still apply, and the structure must still be anchored for wind loads.
When you need a Garage permit in St. Johns County
Detached garages over 200 sq ft require a building permit, plus an electrical permit if wired. Foundation, framing, and fire-rated wall if within 3 feet of the property line per FBCR R302.1 are required, with wind-uplift connectors per ASCE 7-22.
Attached garages always require a building permit. The wall and ceiling between the house and garage must be fire-separated per FBCR R302.6, a self-closing fire-rated door is required, and the overhead garage door must be impact-rated or shuttered (wind-borne debris region).
Garage Permit Costs: St. Johns County vs. Nearby
St. Johns County's fees are right in line with the Florida average, $250 – $900 versus $277 – $1,145 statewide.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| St. Johns County | $250 – $900 |
| Jacksonville | $150 – $500 |
| Miami | $310 – $1,950 |
| Tampa | $215 – $1,350 |
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
Detached garages and carports may require zoning approval for setback and lot coverage compliance. Garage conversions to living space may trigger zoning occupancy requirements.
If you live in an HOA community: many HOAs regulate garage door styles, colors, and materials. Garage conversions to living space are prohibited in some communities. Carports may be restricted or banned entirely.
Estimated Project Timeline in St. Johns County
Here's a typical timeline for a garage project in St. Johns County, FL:
Timeline is based on St. Johns County's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Garage projects in St. Johns County, FL range from $250 – $900. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Garage 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 Garage 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 Garage Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Garage Guide →