HVAC change-out (like-for-like)

Who can pull the permit

• CACCertified Air-Conditioning Contractor (Class A)
• CMCCertified Mechanical Contractor
• RARegistered Air-Conditioning Contractor
• CGCCertified General Contractor
• CBCCertified Building Contractor
• CRCCertified Residential Contractor
• OWNER-BUILDEROwner-occupied 1–2 family (FS 489.103(7))

Decision — first matching row wins

Documents (base)

1. Mechanical permit application with equipment AHRI/energy data
2. Tie-down / hurricane strap detail
3. Notice of Commencement — recorded with the Clerk of Court and a certified copy (or notarised statement of filing) given to the building department BEFORE the first inspection. Statutory floor is a direct contract over $5,000 (FS 713.135(1)(e)); HVAC repair/replace under $15,000 exempt; lien-law protection applies above $2,500 (FS 713.02(5)). Authorities differ: Collier applies $2,500 (Bulletin B-44, pool checklist) and charges a $5 NOC admin fee; Lee will not ISSUE the permit until the NOC is recorded ($5,000+); Fort Myers, Bonita, Fort Myers Beach $5,000; Marco Island / Sanibel per statute (posted on site before first inspection)
4. Contractor registration current with the county (license, GL insurance, workers' comp or exemption on file)

Sources

• Florida Building Code, Building §105.1 (Permits required) & §105.2 (Work exempt from permit)
• Fla. Stat. §713.13 / §713.135(1)(e) / §713.02(5) — Notice of Commencement (copy filed before first inspection when direct contract > $5,000; HVAC repair/replace < $15,000 exempt) checked 2026-08-18