Water Heater Permit Requirements in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale issues plumbing permits for water heaters, including a dedicated exact-changeout type. Its official guidance says plumbing work still requires a permit whatever the job costs, and the city hosts the Broward County water heater replacement data form, which records whether the heater stays in place or is relocated.
Verified against official sources · Last verified: September 19, 2026
Do You Need a Permit?
Permit RequiredThe City of Fort Lauderdale issues plumbing permits for water heaters — its list of walk-thru-eligible plumbing permit types includes "Water Heater" and "Water Heater Exact Changeout." The city's HB 803 guidance states plumbing work still requires a permit regardless of job cost. The city hosts the Broward County Dwelling Unit Water Heater Replacement Data Form, which records whether the heater stays in the same location or is relocated.
See what applies to your exact property.
Check Your PropertyPermit Type
Plumbing Permit
Documents You May Need
- Broward County Dwelling Unit Water Heater Replacement Data Form (Board Policy 22-02), with existing and new heater details (kW, voltage, wire and breaker size, and gallons for electric; gas pipe, flue, BTUs, and gallons for gas) and whether the heater stays in the same location or is relocated
- Efficiency verification through manufacturer data or an approved certification (such as an AHRI Certificate), and the manufacturer's electrical installation instructions if a cord is being used
- Recorded Notice of Commencement, if the contract exceeds $5,000
- Owner Builder Affidavit, if the homeowner acts as their own contractor
What to Do Next
- 1Gather the required documents listed above.
- 2Contact the building department to submit your application.
- 3Respond to any plan-review comments if issued.
Ready to continue?
Apply for the permit
Open the official government application portal.
Questions about your permit?
Call the Building Department.
Permit Fees
Fees vary based on project scope and permit valuation. See the official city fee schedule.
Review Time
Varies by project and plan-review workload
Building Department
Development Services Department — Building Services
Phone: 954-828-3160Email: PermitSolutions@fortlauderdale.govAddress: 700 NW 19th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Official Sources
City of Fort Lauderdale — Water Heater Replacement Data Form
fortlauderdale.gov · Official PDF · verified September 19, 2026
City of Fort Lauderdale — Permitting Services
fortlauderdale.gov · Official page · verified September 19, 2026
Source last checked: September 17, 2026
City of Fort Lauderdale — HB 803 Permitting Updates
fortlauderdale.gov · Official page · verified September 19, 2026
Source last checked: September 17, 2026
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PermitAhead provides informational guidance based on official government sources. Final permitting decisions are made by the applicable local authority.