Building and permitting a new restaurant in Florida can seem like a daunting task. From understanding the local codes to navigating the permitting process, there are several steps to follow. However, with the right approach and attention to detail, you can successfully build and permit a new restaurant, bringing your culinary vision to life.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps we follow at Adkins Building & Construction to help you through the process.
1. Choose a Location
The first crucial step when you decide to build and permit a new restaurant is choosing the ideal location. You need to find a location that is zoned for restaurant use. You also need to consider accessibility, parking, and visibility when choosing a location.
2. Hire Adkins as your General Contractor
Once you have identified a location, the next step is to hire us as your General Contractor. We will help you design the restaurant and obtain the necessary building permits. We will also ensure the restaurant complies with building codes and health regulations.
3. Obtain Zoning Approval
After we have designed the restaurant, we obtain zoning approval. This involves presenting your plans to the zoning board, where they will determine if your restaurant is in compliance with the zoning laws in the area. If your plans are approved, we can then move on to the next step.
4. Build and Permit a New Restaurant: Securing Building and Health Permits
The next step is to obtain building and health permits. These permits are required by the state of Florida to ensure that the restaurant is designed and constructed in a way that meets the state’s building and health codes.
5. Construction Begins
Once we have obtained all necessary permits, construction can begin. During this phase, we as the general contractor work closely together with the architect and MEPF designers to construct the restaurant according to the plans that were designed.
6. Inspections and Final Approvals
After the construction is completed, the restaurant will need to be inspected by the local health inspector and building inspector to ensure that everything is up to code. Once these inspections are completed successfully, you will be ready to open your new restaurant.
Building Your Restaurant with Adkins Building & Construction
Building and permitting a new restaurant in Florida is a detailed process that requires careful planning and adherence to local and state regulations. By working with Adkins Building & Construction, you can confidently navigate these steps. From site selection to final inspections, we provide expert support at every stage to ensure your restaurant is built on time and on budget.
If you’re ready to build and permit a new restaurant, contact Adkins Building & Construction today. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, ensuring your restaurant meets all regulatory requirements while creating a space that delights your guests and stands out in the competitive Florida market. Get in touch with us today to begin your restaurant construction journey!
Key Building Codes for Florida Restaurants
When you build and permit a new restaurant in Florida, it’s crucial to comply with various building codes and regulations. These codes cover everything from structural integrity to fire safety and accessibility. Some of the most important include:
1. Florida Building Code: This code sets the regulations for standard building construction practices in Florida, including those related to fire and life safety, structural design, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems.
2. Florida Fire Prevention Code: This code sets the regulations for fire safety requirements in all structures within the state, including restaurants.
3. National Fire Protection Association Standards: The NFPA sets the standards for fire safety in buildings and structures. The NFPA 96 is the standard for ventilation control and fire protection of commercial cooking operations.
4. Americans with Disabilities Act: The ADA sets the accessibility standards for building design and construction to make sure that all people, including those with disabilities, have equal access.
5. Florida Accessibility Code for Building Construction: This code outlines the state’s accessibility standards for new construction or alteration of buildings.
6. Florida Building Code Energy Conservation: This code outlines the requirements for energy efficiency for buildings in the state, including restaurants.
7. Florida Department of Health Food Service Establishment Regulations: These regulations cover the design, construction, and operation of food service establishments, including restaurants.
8. Restrooms: Section 403.2 of Florida Building Code Plumbing “Required Plumbing Fixtures” states separate facilities must be provided for each sex when plumbing fixtures are required. An exception exists for food services establishments with 10 or fewer seats in which case one unisex accessible restroom may be provided. The service area is determined by the occupant capacity based on the service area and/or fixed seats for indoor and outdoor service areas.
9. Capacity: Occupant capacity in a food service establishment is determined by the customer service area including outdoor seating. Section 1004 of the Florida Building Code allows one person for each 15 square feet of customer service area. Outdoor dining and sidewalk cafés are included in this calculation.
It’s important to note that these codes and regulations may vary depending on the size and scope of the restaurant, and the local codes may also apply in addition to the state codes. It is always recommended to work with a licensed architect or engineer who is familiar with the local and state codes to ensure all requirements are met during the design, construction, and permitting process.
