Miami Lakes, FL · Miami-Dade County
Owner-Builder Affidavit and Instructions
Instructions and affidavit form for property owners applying for building permits as their own contractor without a professional license.
- Florida-licensed notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
This form guides Florida property owners through the owner-builder exemption process, which allows homeowners to obtain building permits and act as their own contractor on residential and small commercial projects without a general contractor license. The form outlines key responsibilities including proof of ownership, liability insurance requirements, tax withholding obligations, and project scope limitations. Homeowners must understand they are fully liable for all work performed and any injuries or damages caused by their day laborers.
Who needs it
Property owners planning to pull their own building permit for construction, renovation, or demolition on residential or small commercial projects without hiring a licensed general contractor.
Why it needs a notary
The affidavit portion requires notarization to officially document the owner's acknowledgment of their legal responsibilities, liabilities, and compliance with Florida Building Code requirements under the owner-builder exemption.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Complete the Owner-Builder Affidavit
Fill out all sections of the Owner-Builder Affidavit and Instructions form provided by the City of Miami Lakes. Do not sign the document yet.
- 2
Gather Required Identification
Prepare a valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) for presentation to the notary public.
- 3
Schedule Notary Appointment
Book an appointment with a City Notary public for convenient notarization of your affidavit in Miami Lakes.
- 4
Sign Before the Notary
In the presence of the notary, sign your Owner-Builder Affidavit. The notary will then verify your identity and affix their seal.
- 5
Submit Form to City of Miami Lakes
Submit the fully completed and notarized Owner-Builder Affidavit along with your permit application to the City of Miami Lakes Building Department.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Miami Lakes. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed Florida online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- What is an owner-builder affidavit in Miami Lakes?
- An owner-builder affidavit in Miami Lakes is a document Florida property owners sign to certify they will act as their own contractor for construction projects, taking full responsibility for the work instead of hiring a licensed professional.
- Do I need to notarize the owner-builder affidavit in Miami Lakes?
- Yes, the owner-builder affidavit specifically requires notarization in Miami Lakes to legally validate the property owner's acknowledgment of their responsibilities, liabilities, and compliance with Florida Building Code regulations, which is essential for obtaining a building permit.
- How do I get my owner-builder affidavit notarized in Miami Lakes?
- You can get your owner-builder affidavit notarized in Miami Lakes by scheduling an appointment with a local notary public. Ensure the form is fully completed but not signed before meeting the notary, as they must witness your signature.
- What are my responsibilities as an owner-builder in Florida?
- As an owner-builder in Florida, you are responsible for supervising all construction, ensuring compliance with building codes, arranging for inspections, and are fully liable for all work performed and any injuries or damages, including those caused by day laborers.