Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Department - Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Development Permit to make improvements or site alterations to my home or business?
Permitting requirements are governed by City Ordinances, zoning regulations, and various building code requirements. Some work may not require development or building permits, but, nonetheless, must still comply with the applicable codes. To verify whether a Development Permit is necessary, contact the Planning Department (239) 472-4136.
Do you have a flood elevation certificate for my property and can I get a copy?
Flood elevation certificates are prepared by licensed professional surveyors. Flood elevation certificates for the construction of new buildings have been submitted to the City Building Department where they are maintained. Contact the Planning Department (239) 472-4136 to request a copy or inquire about the availability of an elevation certificate.
Is there enough land coverage available to build a pool or add a room to a specific piece of property and comply with the required setback and pervious surface ordinances?
To verify the amount of buildable area on a piece of property a contractor or property owner should contact the Planning Department (239) 472-4136 and ask for an appointment with a Planner. A survey of the property or plans for existing development will be necessary to determine the amount of remaining buildable area.
How do I find the zoning for a piece of property?
Until the City can provide this information to you through their website, the easiest way to find out a property’s zoning is to either call the Planning Department (239) 472-4136 or to visit the Planning Department for a review of our zoning maps. You may also obtain a set of zoning maps for a small fee. If the property is not on Sanibel but is in Lee County, call the Lee County Property Appraiser’s office (239) 339-6100.
What are the setback requirements for a piece of property?
Setback requirements are governed by the Land Development Code and differ for various areas. Call the Planning Department (239) 472-4136 and give them the address of the property. They can tell you about the specific setback requirements.
When do I need a vegetation permit?
A vegetation permit is necessary whenever you: (1) cut native vegetation or trim more than 25 percent of native vegetation, (2) trim Mangroves, (3) trim vegetation seaward of the Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL), (4) use mechanical equipment to clear exotic vegetation on properties of one acre or more in size, (5) use chemicals to remove vegetation. For additional information regarding vegetation regulations consult Ordinance No. 04-001 (Vegetation), which can be found by searching the City Codes . Vegetation permit applications are available in the Planning Department.
What are Sanibel’s permit fees?
Sanibel Development Permit fees vary depending on the type of permit. These fees are included in the Land Development Code, which can be found by searching the City Codes . Or information can be obtained from the Planning Department (239) 472-4136.
Do you have a file that contains construction details of my house?
If your house was built after the incorporation of the City of Sanibel in 1975, a building file should exist. Contact the Planning Department (239) 472-4136 and they can tell you if a file exists. Building files are stored off-Island and can be retrieved for a nominal fee.
How do I find out if a paver or fence inspection has been completed by the Planning Department?
When a paver or fence project is completed, the contractor or property owner should call the Planning Department (239) 472-4136 and request an inspection. When the inspection is completed the City will contact the property owner or contractor with the results of the inspection and issue a completion certificate.
Where can I buy a copy of the Sanibel Plan?
The Sanibel Plan is posted here (pdf 806.12 kB) . You can obtain a printed copy of the Sanibel Plan (Volumes 1 and 2) from the Planning Department for $65. To request a copy, contact the Planning Department office as (239) 472-4136 or via email .
Where can I buy a copy of the Sanibel Code of Ordinances/Land Development Code?
You can obtain a printed copy of the Sanibel Code of Ordinances/Land Development Code from the publisher, Municipal Code Corporation , P. O. Box 2235, Tallahassee, FL 32316 or via their website, or search for it by connecting to City Codes .
Who owns the property next to me?
Information on property ownership can be obtained by calling the Lee County Property Appraiser’s office (239) 339-6100 or access their website.
When and where are Planning Commission meetings held?
The Sanibel Planning Commission meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 9:00 A.M. in MacKenzie Hall, Sanibel City Council Chambers, located in City Hall at 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL.
For more information about Planning Commission agendas, contact the Sanibel Planning Department (239) 472-4136 or view the agendas online .
Is horseback riding allowed on Sanibel beaches?
Ordinance No. 06-007 states that, “It shall be unlawful to ride any horse or for the owner of any horse to permit such horse to be at large on any public beach, shared use path, or other public property within the boundaries of the City of Sanibel. No horses are not permitted on Sanibel Beaches.”
