Common home projects such as air-conditioning changeouts, water heaters, service panels, plumbing work, windows, exterior doors, garage doors, gas appliances, and similar replacements may use a building or standalone trade permit. Pinellas County lists these record types in its residential and Express Permit catalogs. Like-for-like does not automatically mean no permit. The correct answer depends on the work type, structural impact, trade involved, flood-hazard status, and the 2026 permit-exemption rules. Under the County's 2026 exemption, certain non-structural residential projects for single-family homes with a total value under $7,500 may qualify; it does not apply to properties in a flood zone or flood hazard area, or to gas, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural work, and approval from the County Building Official is required before exempt work proceeds. Work under an approved exemption is not inspected by County staff. Express permits are available only for listed qualifying work; online applications are limited to licensed contractors, while homeowners may apply in person. unverified
Pinellas common residential replacements and trade permits
Applies to: unincorporated
Flagged source reviewed 2026-10-16. How we check sources
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