Do You Need a Permit to Remodel a Kitchen or Bath in Boca Raton?
Updated May 2026
In Boca Raton, cosmetic work — refinishing or refacing cabinets, painting, swapping counters — is generally permit-exempt. Moving walls, relocating plumbing or electrical, or running power to new cabinetry requires a permit through City of Boca Raton Development Services, where fees run about 1.6% of construction value and residential inspections are often next-day.
What generally doesn't need a permit
Work that doesn't touch the structure, plumbing, or electrical usually proceeds without a permit in Boca Raton.
- Cabinet refinishing, refacing, and painting
- Like-for-like countertop and fixture swaps
- Trim, paneling, and built-ins that don't add electrical
What does need a permit
Anything that moves walls, plumbing, or electrical — or adds them — requires a permit through City of Boca Raton Development Services, which runs its own building department under the Florida Building Code.
- Moving or removing walls
- Relocating sinks, ranges, or plumbing lines
- New electrical, including power to new cabinetry or islands
A note on other cities
Rules vary by municipality. Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and West Palm Beach run their own building departments with their own fees and timelines, so a project's requirements depend on which city it's in.
Related services
Frequently asked questions
Generally no — refinishing, refacing, and painting with no plumbing, electrical, or structural change are typically permit-exempt.
Building permit fees run about 1.6% of the construction valuation, with minimums and additional review and inspection fees.