Fence Permit Application Checklist

Step 1.Verify That Your Property is in the City of Clearwater

To verify if your property is in the city of Clearwater, visit the Pinellas County Property Appraiser website, enter the address in the Real Property box, and click search. In the search results under Parcel Summary, look under Current Tax District for Clearwater, CW, CWD, or CWDO, all of which indicate your property is located in the city of Clearwater.

Step 2.For Contractors 

If you are a licensed contractor performing the work, access the city's online permitting system system and register for an account or log in to complete the application process. For contractors only, if the contract price (including materials and labor) is greater than $5,000, you must file a Notice of Commencement. Only licensed contractors are presently able to use the city's online permitting system for fence applications.

Step 3.For Homeowners

If you're the homeowner submitting the application and completing the work, you can download the printable PDF version of the Fence/Wall Permit Application(PDF, 108KB).

Step 4.Complete the Application

Step 5.Obtain a Copy of a Current Survey of the Property

This can typically be found among the purchase or mortgage documents. Mark the exact location of the fence on the survey and include information regarding height, length, and material to be used. For wood fences, the “good side” of the fence must face outward.

Additional landscaping may be required in some situations. For questions, contact the Planning & Development Department at (727) 562-4567 and ask to speak with a Development Review Planner. Two copies of the marked-up survey must accompany the application. 

Step 6.For Contractors Only

Complete the application submission online.

Step 7.For Homeowners Only

Bring the completed application along with two copies of the marked-up survey to the Planning & Development Department, located at 100 S Myrtle Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33756.

Step 8.Pay Application Fees

Visit the Fee Estimator page to calculate the cost of your permit.

Step 9.Wait for Review and Approval

Staff will review the application, and if it is complete, a permit will be issued. The fence must be installed within six months.

In some cases, an inspection will be required as a condition of closing the permit.