Summary
Operating as a general contractor in Stuart, Martin County requires both state-level licensing through Florida's DBPR and local registration with the county. The process involves significant preparation including passing state examinations, demonstrating construction experience, and meeting insurance and bonding requirements. Martin County has specific local requirements beyond state licensing, including competency testing on local codes and ordinances. The permit process is well-established but requires careful attention to inspection schedules and code compliance. Stuart's coastal location means contractors often work with hurricane-resistant construction standards and elevated coastal construction requirements, which can affect both project complexity and pricing in this premium South Florida market.
License Requirements
Florida requires general contractors to obtain a Certified General Contractor (CGC) license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). This requires 4 years of experience in construction management or a construction-related degree plus 2 years experience. Applicants must pass the Business & Finance and Trade Knowledge examinations. The license costs $302.50 initially and $250 for biennial renewal. Martin County also requires a local competency card and certificate of competency, which requires passing a local exam covering building codes and county ordinances. Local registration fees are approximately $100-150 annually.
Permit Requirements
All construction projects in Stuart require permits through the Martin County Building Department. Applications must be submitted with detailed plans, structural calculations (when required), and applicable fees. Residential permits range from $150-500 for minor work to $2,000+ for new construction. Commercial permits start at $300 minimum. Plan review takes 2-3 weeks for residential projects and 3-6 weeks for commercial projects. Re-inspections cost $75 each. Contractors must schedule mandatory inspections including foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and final inspections through the county's online portal.
Insurance Requirements
Florida requires general contractors to carry minimum $300,000 general liability insurance and $100,000 property damage coverage. Workers' compensation is mandatory for any contractor with employees, with minimum coverage of $100,000 per accident. Martin County may require additional coverage limits for larger commercial projects. Most clients and commercial projects require $1-2 million in general liability coverage. Contractors must also post a $5,000 surety bond with the county and maintain current certificates of insurance on file.
Typical Cost Ranges
In Stuart's market, residential remodeling projects range from $15,000-75,000 for kitchen/bath renovations, $25,000-100,000 for room additions, and $150,000-500,000+ for custom homes. Commercial tenant improvements range from $50-200 per square foot depending on complexity. Small commercial projects typically range from $50,000-250,000. Hurricane mitigation and coastal construction projects command premium pricing, often 15-25% above standard rates due to specialized requirements and materials.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Florida CGC license through DBPR and pass required examinations
- ✓Register with Martin County and obtain local competency certificate
- ✓Secure minimum $300,000 general liability and required workers' compensation insurance
- ✓File $5,000 surety bond with Martin County Building Department
- ✓Register business with Florida Department of State and obtain local business tax receipt
- ✓Apply for building permits before starting any construction work
- ✓Schedule all required inspections through county's online system
- ✓Maintain current insurance certificates and license renewals
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