Before any concrete is poured or pavers are laid, a driveway project in Pembroke Pines needs a permit. The City of Pembroke Pines requires a permit for driveways, walkways and patios, and the application involves several documents that homeowners often haven't heard of. This guide explains each item on the city's checklist in plain language so you understand what your contractor is preparing and why it matters.
Please note: permit requirements can change. Always confirm current requirements with the City of Pembroke Pines Building Division before starting a project.
Who Handles the Driveway Permit in Pembroke Pines?
Most licensed contractors handle the permit for the homeowner. They prepare the drawings, gather the forms, submit the application and schedule inspections. You'll still need to sign certain documents as the property owner, provide your survey and handle your HOA's approval. When you compare quotes, confirm in writing that permit handling is included.
The City's Driveway Permit Checklist
1. Broward County Uniform Permit Application
The standard building permit application used across Broward County municipalities. It identifies the property, owner, contractor, scope of work and job value.
2. Homeowners Association Affidavit of Awareness
Acknowledges that the owner is aware of any HOA requirements. It is required even if you are not in an HOA. The city permit does not replace your HOA's own architectural approval.
3. Property survey
A survey showing setbacks and the location of the proposed driveway, used to confirm zoning distances and coverage. If you don't have a current one, you may need to order it.
4. Design criteria / detail
Construction details such as thickness, base, reinforcement and materials. Contractors typically provide this.
5. Affidavit of Landscape Compliance
Addresses the city's landscape requirements, since driveway changes can affect required green space and plantings.
6. South Broward Drainage District permit release (if applicable)
Required if the property is within the district's area. The district manages stormwater infrastructure, and added hard surface can affect drainage.
7. Sidewalk Apron Replacement Consent Form
The apron crosses the sidewalk area and meets the street. Because it affects the public right-of-way, this consent form is required when the apron is replaced.
8. Concrete in Swale form (if applicable)
Applies when concrete will be placed in the grassy swale near the street that absorbs and channels rainwater.
9. Utility Easement Hold Harmless Agreement (if applicable)
Applies when the driveway is built over a utility easement, addressing responsibility if utility work later disturbs it.
10. Recorded Notice of Commencement (jobs over $5,000)
For jobs valued over $5,000, a recorded Notice of Commencement must be provided before the first inspection.
Many full driveway replacements exceed the Notice of Commencement threshold. See the Pembroke Pines concrete driveway cost guide for typical ranges.
How Review and Submission Work
Applications are submitted through the city's online permitting portal. Driveway plans go through building, zoning and engineering review. Building review looks at construction details; zoning checks setbacks, coverage and landscape rules; engineering looks at drainage, the right-of-way, the apron and the swale. Reviewers may request corrections before approval. Once the permit is issued, the work proceeds with required inspections.
Tips to Avoid Delays
- Find your property survey early, or order a new one if it's outdated.
- Start your HOA's architectural application at the same time as the permit paperwork.
- Ask your contractor whether your property is in the South Broward Drainage District area.
- Plan ahead for apron and swale work, which bring additional forms. See driveway extensions and widening.
- Record the Notice of Commencement before the first inspection if your job is over $5,000.
Related Services
Every kind of driveway project usually needs a permit, including new concrete driveway installation, driveway replacement and paver driveways. See which neighborhoods are covered on our Pembroke Pines service areas page.
Pembroke Pines Driveway Permit FAQs
Do I need a permit for a driveway in Pembroke Pines?
Yes. The City of Pembroke Pines requires a permit for driveways, walkways and patios.
Do I need the HOA Affidavit of Awareness if I'm not in an HOA?
Yes. The city's checklist requires the Homeowners Association Affidavit of Awareness even if your property is not part of an HOA.
Who usually pulls the driveway permit?
Most licensed contractors handle the permit application for the homeowner as part of the job. Confirm this in your written quote.
When is a Notice of Commencement required?
For jobs valued over $5,000, a recorded Notice of Commencement must be provided before the first inspection.
How do I submit a permit application?
Applications are submitted through the city's online permitting portal. Plans go through building, zoning and engineering review.