Brevard County sees drop in building permits despite rising job values

Building permit trends took center stage at the Brevard County Commission Workshop on March 27, 2025, revealing a complex landscape for development in the region. Despite a notable decline in the number of permits issued—from 26,394 in 2019 to just 23,429 in 2024—the county has seen an increase in revenue, thanks to rising job values associated with these permits.

The discussion highlighted that while the raw number of permits has decreased, the value of the projects has surged, particularly in the commercial sector. Notably, the construction of the Merritt Island Health First Hospital has significantly influenced these figures, contributing to a rise in average job values. This trend indicates that while fewer projects are being initiated, those that are underway tend to involve larger investments.

However, the workshop also addressed the challenges posed by Florida's stringent building code revenue restrictions. These regulations dictate that revenue generated from building permits can only be used for specific enforcement activities, such as inspections and plan reviews, and cannot exceed the actual costs incurred. This limitation has implications for how the county can allocate funds for building code enforcement and technology upgrades.

As Brevard County navigates these trends, the focus remains on balancing the need for development with the constraints imposed by state regulations. The commission's ongoing discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of construction and development in the area, ensuring that the county can effectively manage its resources while fostering growth.