STAMP REQUIREMENTS · FL
Do you need an architect's stamp in Florida?
Florida does not require an architect for one- or two-family homes, townhouses or their outbuildings, regardless of cost, but wind design often means an engineer has to seal the structural portion.
What the law says
Florida Statutes §481.229(1)(b) says no one has to be an architect to make plans for, or supervise the building, enlargement or alteration of, a one- or two-family residence, a townhouse, or a domestic outbuilding, regardless of cost.
Where the exemption stops
- Covers one- and two-family residences, townhouses and their outbuildings.
- Other buildings are exempt only under $25,000 in cost, and never schools, auditoriums or public buildings (§481.229(1)(c)).
When an engineer is still required
Florida’s wind loads are where the stamp comes back. Many new homes and additions need an engineered wind design, and some counties ask for sealed plans on new single-family homes wherever the code calls for engineering. Charlotte County did on a 2026 owner-builder project we drew.
What this means if you're using a drafting service
A drafting service can prepare the architectural set for a Florida house or addition. Expect to hire a Florida-licensed engineer for the structural and wind design on most new construction, and check whether your county requires a sealed set.
ArchWorkPro drafts permit sets for $1 per square foot of drawn area with a $1,200 minimum, or $195 per sheet for new construction under 1,200 sq ft. We don't seal drawings. When your project needs an engineer or architect, you hire them directly and we draft to their direction. See what a permit set includes or permit drawings for owner-builders.
City pages for Florida, with plan check times and energy code details: Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando.
Questions
Do I need an architect to build a house in Florida?
Florida does not require an architect for one- or two-family homes, townhouses or their outbuildings, regardless of cost, but wind design often means an engineer has to seal the structural portion.
Do I need an engineer's stamp in Florida?
Florida’s wind loads are where the stamp comes back. Many new homes and additions need an engineered wind design, and some counties ask for sealed plans on new single-family homes wherever the code calls for engineering. Charlotte County did on a 2026 owner-builder project we drew.
Can a drafting service prepare my permit plans in Florida?
A drafting service can prepare the architectural set for a Florida house or addition. Expect to hire a Florida-licensed engineer for the structural and wind design on most new construction, and check whether your county requires a sealed set.
Who has the final word on stamps for my project?
Your local building department. State law sets the floor, and the building official can ask for a licensed professional's seal on any portion that falls outside the code's prescriptive rules. Ask before you order drawings.
Sources
Read from the statute and regulation text on . This is general information, not legal advice. Your building department decides what your specific project needs, and laws change; confirm before you rely on it.
Other states: California · Texas · Arizona · Colorado · Washington · Oregon · New Jersey
Not sure what your project needs?
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