FAQs

Building

Am I required to have a permit to host a Garage Sale?

A permit is required to hold a garage or yard sale. Residents are limited to three sales per year (one sale approximately every four months). The cost for the permit is $10 and includes three provided by our department. It is illegal to place additional signs in medians and right-of-ways or to tack signs on utility poles or trees to advertise the sale. For further information, you may download the Garage Sale application under downloadable forms located under the Building Department section of this site.

Can I schedule a specific time for my inspection?

No, however, you can call between the hours of 7:30 am and 8:30 am to speak directly to an inspector to get an estimated time.

How do I schedule a building inspection?

To request a building inspection, call (561) 790-5144. This is an Automated Inspection Line. you must have a 3-digit inspection code and you IRV Number from your permit card to schedule an inspection. View Inspection Codes

How long does it take to issue a permit?

It usually takes between seven to ten business days, and 15 to 30 business days for commercial projects.

How long is a permit valid for?

Permits are valid for 180 days from the date of issuance or an approved inspection.

What are my setbacks?

To obtain setback information for specific properties, please contact Christina Carruolo at (561) 790-5131.

What is Product Approval?

The implementation date of the Florida Product Approval System was October 1, 2003. Rule 9B-72 of the Florida Building Commission establishes a higher standard of practice for product evaluations, as well as uniformity and consistency of enforcement statewide.

The Rule covers the following seven categories of products:

  1. Exterior Doors: Rollup, sectional, sliding, swinging, automatic, or other
  2. Windows: Awning, casement, dual action, double hung, single hung, fixed, horizontal slider, projected, pass through, mullions, wind breaker, or other
  3. Panel Walls: Siding, soffits, exterior insulation finish system (EIFS), storefronts, curtain walls, wall louver, glass block, ,membrane, greenhouse, or other
  4. Roofing Products: Built up roofing, modified bitumen roof system, single ply roof systems, spray applied polyurethane roof system, roofing fasteners, roofing insulation, asphalt shingles, wood systems, underlayments, non-structural metal roofing, roofing tiles, waterproofing, or other
  5. Shutters: Accordion, bahama, storm panels, colonial, roll-up, equipments, or other
  6. Skylights: Skylight or other
  7. Structural Components: Truss plates, wood connectors, anchors, coolers-freezers, sheds, concrete admixtures, insulation forms, engineered lumber, material, plastics, wall, deck-roof, railing, or other

A database is available to search a list of approved entities and products approved for statewide use. For more information on statewide product approval and the Florida Building Code, visit www.floridabuilding.org or call the Florida Department of Community Affairs at (850) 487-1824 or (877) FLA-DCA-2 and ask to speak to someone in the Codes and Standards Section.

When do I need a permit?

Most improvements to real property require a building permit. This would include fences, sheds, pools, driveways, patios, screens, additions, A/C change-outs, water heater change-outs, and new construction. Please contact the Building Division at (561) 790-5128 for additional information.

Business Tax Receipts

As a contractor, what do I need to register my business?

If your business is based OUTSIDE of Palm Beach County, you must provide the following:

  • Royal Palm Beach Application
  • State License
  • Business Tax Receipt from the municipality where your office is based
  • Insurance: General Liability, Worker's Compensation and/or Exemption showing the Village of Royal Palm Beach as the certificate holder
  • Proof of Corporation, Incorporation, or Fictitious Name Registration

If your business is based WITHIN Palm Beach County, and you are doing work within the limits of the Village of Royal Palm Beach, you must provide the following:

  • Royal Palm Beach Application
  • State License or County Competency Card
  • Palm Beach County or Countywide Business Tax Receipt
  • Insurance: General Liability, Worker's Compensation and/or Exemption showing the 
    Village of Royal Palm Beach as the certificate holder
  • Proof of Corporation, Incorporation, or Fictitious Name Registration
  • Merchant Retail/Wholesale - notarized statement of inventory
Do I need a Local Business Tax Receipt to work in the Village of Royal Palm Beach?

Yes. Even if your business is located outside the Village limits, you must register with the Village of Royal Palm Beach BEFORE conducting any business within the Village.

Does a Business Tax Receipt replace an Occupational License?

Yes. As of January 1, 2007, an Occupational License is now referred to as a Business Tax Receipt. This is due to changes in the Florida State Statutes.

If I have a Local Business Tax Receipt with the Village, do I need one for Palm Beach County?

Yes. All businesses and professional offices within the Village must also obtain a Business Tax Receipt from Palm Beach County. Applicants must apply with the Village of Royal Palm Beach and obtain Zoning approval PRIOR to applying for the Palm Beach County Business Tax Receipt.

What is a Fictitious Name and how do I apply?

If your business is operated under a name that is not a corporation or your legal name, you must register with the State of Florida. More information can be found at www.sunbiz.org

What is a Local Business Tax Receipt?

A Local Business Tax Receipt grants the privilege of engaging in or managing any business, profession, or occupation within the Village limits.

When does my Local Business Tax Receipt expire?

Local Business Tax receipts are valid from October 1 of the current year through September 30 of the following year.

Cultural Center

Where is the Cultural Center located?

The Cultural Center is located at 151 Civic Center Way (directly behind the Denny’s restaurant on the southwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Royal Palm Beach Blvd). From Okeechobee Blvd. go to the to the intersection of Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and Okeechobee Blvd. and head South on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Make immediate first right and Cultural Center is first building on your left hand side.

Engineering

Am I in a flood zone (FEMA special flood hazard area)?
Do I need a permit to plant in the swale in front of my house?

Yes. Visit the Engineering Department’s section of the website and select the Right-of-Way Permits link to learn about the permitting process for swale planting.

How can I find information on a Capital Improvement Project?

Visit the Engineering Department’s section of the website and select the Capital Improvement Projects link to learn about projects that are out for bid or under construction.

How do I subscibe to receive future advertisements for bids, request for proposals (RFP), and Requests for Qualifications (RFQ)?

Click HERE to subscribe

Human Resources

Does the Village of Royal Palm Beach drug test?

Yes, the Village is a Drug Free Workplace, and as such, we do pre-employment drug screening, post accident, post injury and reasonable suspicion drug testing.

How do I apply for employment?

Applications are accepted online for current open positions only. The online application must be completed in its entirety, and all applicants must meet the minimum requirements for the position they are applying for. Start the process by going to www.royalpalmbeach.com, navigate to Departments, Human Resources, and then click on the Employment Opportunities link. All applicants must register before using the online application system.

How do I claim Veteran's Preference?

If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, fill out that section of the online application.

How do I get notified if I have been chosen or not?

If your application is reviewed and meets our minimum criteria, you may receive a phone call to set up an interview. Should your application be declined, we will notify you via email at the address you provided to us in your online application.

How do I register?

If you have never used the Royal Palm Beach online application system, navigate to Departments, Human Resources, and click on Employment Opportunities. Click on Apply Online in the right side menu and on the login screen enter an email address and password and then click on New User. The system will walk you through the rest of the process.

How long do I need to wait to hear from someone?

Sometimes the Village receives many applications, and it can take a few weeks from the time you applied to get a response or phone call. We understand people are anxious to hear back, and therefore, we do our best to review the applications as quickly as possible.

How long is my application kept on file?

All applications become inactive once the position has been filled. If you would like to apply for another open position you will need to login and fill out the application for that position.

How will I know that my application was received and is being processed?

After an application has been completed online you will receive an e-mail indicating that your application has been received.

What is the hiring process?

All applications must be completed in their entirety and minimum requirements must be meet. The applications that pass this screening are passed on to the Department Head or Supervisor of the Department with the open position. The Department will arrange interviews with the most qualified candidates.

After the most qualified applicants are interviewed, they may be asked to fill out a release so that a background check, drug screen and physical can be performed. After these screenings, a job offer may be made to the applicant that best fits the needs of the Village.

What is the pay for the position?

The Village has a Pay Grade Chart. It can be viewed online to see what the pay grade is for the position you are applying for. All new hires generally start at the minimum pay of the pay grade for their position.

Where do I apply?

Applications can be completed online at www.royalpalmbeach.com by going to Departments, then Human Resources, and clicking on Employment Opportunities. The Apply Online link is located in the right side menu. All applicants must register before using the online application system.

Will I be told why I did not get the position?

Generally, the Village interviews a number of candidates for an opening. Candidates with the best overall match of attributes, such as work experience and skills, will be chosen.

Parks & Recreation

How do I register for a class or activity?

Registrations are accepted both in-person at the Recreation Center and online. Acceptable forms of payment include check, Visa, and MasterCard. Access to online registrations requires account activation. Please contact the Recreation Center at (561) 790-5124 for more information.

How Do I reserve a picnic pavilion?

Picnic pavilions are available for a nominal fee for residents of the Village. Pavilions are usually located within your neighborhood parks. Grills are available at the majority of the pavilions and limited to 40 participants. Pavilion reservation procedure is as follows: In person registration, first come, first paid between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, with extended hours until 6:30 PM on Tuesday and Wednesday.

What are the Recreation Center Hours?

Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

What is the gymnasium schedule?

Monday-Friday: 1:00 PM-5:45 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Please note: The evening open gymnasium schedule varies throughout the year with youth programs.

Where is the Recreation Center located?

The Recreation Center is located at 100 Sweet Bay Lane (off of Sparrow Drive next to Crestwood Middle School). You can access Sparrow Drive off of Royal Palm Beach Boulevard and Crestwood Boulevard, south of Okeechobee Boulevard.

Planning & Zoning

How can I find out what Zoning District a specific property has?

View the Planning and Zoning Department Zoning District Map for additional information. Zoning District Map

How do I obtain a permit for a sign?

the Architectural and Aesthetic Review Board (AAR). Temporary signs such as real estate, banner, window, contractor, and courtesy (public hearing notice) signs do not need a building permit as long as they conform to the Sign Code regulations.

For signs that do require AARC approval, business owners or their sign contractors must file an AARC application, prior to submitting for a sign permit. The board meets the first Tuesday of each month to discuss. Application submittals must be received two weeks prior to a meeting.

In addition to zoning requirements, the proposed sign must conform to established design standards (e.g., Master Sign Plan criteria) and fit well into the architectural character of the building. A freestanding ground monument must be located on a survey and have surrounding landscaping that beautifies its design.

For more information, please contact the Planning and Zoning Department.

How do I obtain the flood zone determination for my property?

For the most accurate and up to date information, contact the Planning and Zoning Department at (561) 790-5131.

 

I am a realtor trying to close on a property. How can I obtain a Zoning Conformation Letter?

You will need to send a letter defining the information you require including the property address and parcel control number to the Planning & Zoning Administrative Assistant at sarmento@royalpalmbeachfl.gov . The fee for the Zoning Confirmation Letter is $50 and once your request is submitted, the administrative assistant will provide you with instructions on how to remit the payment online. The Planning and Zoning Department has up to 30 days to process the request.

I own a building within the General Commercial Zoning District. What uses are allowed within this district?

For a complete list of uses allowed within the General Commercial Zoning District please refer to Section 26-89 within Muni-Code. Please be aware that there can be site specific constraints.

Please contact the Planning and Zoning Department at (561) 790-5131 to verify specific uses.

I would like to learn more about current development occurring around the Village. How would I learn more about a specific property?

The Planning and Zoning Division staff is familiar with the development pattern of the Village, zoning ordinances, and districts and the process for obtaining approvals. For more information, you may make an appointment to speak with a planner at (561) 790-5131. If you have questions about a particular property, it is helpful if you know the exact location, legal description, or have a copy of a property survey.

What are the hours of the Planning and Zoning Division?

We are open from Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (excluding official holidays).

What are the hours of the Planning and Zoning Division?

We are open from Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (excluding official holidays).

What are the required minimum standards for landscaping on my residential property?

This information varies from property to property. Please call (561) 790-5131 to get most accurate and up to date information.

What is the Zoning for my property?

Zoning Maps can be found here or by calling the Planning and Zoning Department at (561) 790-5131.

When is architectural approval required for new signage?

Architectural approval is required when there is an established sign criterion for the development and the new sign deviates from the established sign criteria or when there is no established sign criteria all signs require architectural approval.

For a copy of the established sign criteria, contact the Planning and Zoning Department at (561) 790-5131.

When is architectural approval required?

Architectural approval is required when any exterior changes are proposed to a commercial or multi-family building that is not consistent with the existing architectural approval. This can include but is not limited to paint color, building materials, exterior elevation remodeling, roof material and/or colors.

If you have any questions regarding whether you need architectural approval contact the Planning and Zoning Department at (561) 790-5131.

Where can I find the development application for rezoning?

ProjectDox

I completed all the required fields on my OAS application but one of the fields has an “INCOMPLETE” and I cannot submit my request. What does this mean?

It means there is something missing or incomplete on your application. Carefully review the application and confirm all the fields are completed, or a website was not mistakenly, added as an email address. In addition, confirm your phone number is not more than 10 digits long example 1-111-111-1111 correct format is 111-111-111. Confirm there is no semicolon in the email address.

Are there any invalid characters in my file name I am not able to use?

Yes, invalid characters in a file name are the following below:

< (less than)
> (greater than)
: (colon)
" (double quote)
 / (forward slash)
\ (backslash)
| (vertical bar or pipe)
? (question mark)
* (asterisk)
= (equal)

. (Period)

Are there any tutorial videos I can watch?

You can watch micro-learning videos strategically placed throughout the application. 

 

Can I email my application and supporting documents to the Village?

No – you can no longer email the document(s) or drawing(s) to the building or planning departments. The Village is electronic; documents must be submitted via ProjectDox.

Can I make a change on my submitted application?

No – Once you have submitted the application electronically, no changes can be made. A new application must be submitted.

Can I search by PCN?

Yes, please follow this example when searching by the "PCN" Property Control Number. 41-43-26-30-000-0010.You must enter the dashesDO NOT ENTER “72”. 72-41-43-30-000-0010. searching for a PCN starting with “72” is only used on "PAPA" Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s website.

Can I submit a vegetation removal permit through ProjectDox?

No vegetation removal permits are not submitted via ProjectDox. Please contact the Community Development department at 561-790-5128.

Can I submit Microsoft Office documents I.E. Excel, and Word through ProjectDox?

At this time, we are not accepting Office related documents through ProjectDox. We recommend applicants convert their Office files to PDF format prior to submitting through ProjectDox.

Can I submit two applications with the same exact name?

You will not be able to submit two applications with the same name. Before submitting the application make a slight change to it, such as character, number, etc.

Can I update my email/profile on ProjectDox account?

Yes, you can update your email/profile by logging into your account and clicking on the “Profile” button.

Can I upload a PDF fillable form through ProjectDox?

Yes, you may fill out the form but you must finalize it by saving it as a regular PDF before uploading through ProjectDox. ProjectDox does not support PDFs that contain fillable fields. 

Can I upload BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG and TIFF images through ProjectDox?

No, we are not accepting those file types. We recommend applicants convert any image file type I.E. BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG and TIFF to PDF format prior to submitting through ProjectDox.

Do I need special software to use ProjectDox?

ProjectDox runs on any browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge). We do not recommend using I.E. Internet Explorer. 

How can I review the comments/notes on my project?

You can run the “Plan Review - Review Comments" report.

How do I activate my ProjectDox account?

Once you have logged into OAS online application submittal please click on the “VIEW ALL PROJECTS” button. This will activate your account in ProjectDox.

How do I apply for a revision?

You must download and complete the “Revision Form” which can be found by clicking HERE. Alternatively you may download it from WWW.ROYALPALMBEACH.COM > Building > Additional Downloadable Forms.

Upon completing the form, please contact Building, Village Staff at 561-790-5128.

How do I find my comments?

You can find your comments by running the “Plan Review - Review Comments" report.

How do I get started?

In order to use ProjectDox, you will need to create, a one-time account by going to www.royalpalmbeach.com/ProjectDoxLogin. Click on the “Create Account button to start the process of creating your account. In addition the verification code for a new ACCOUNT is good for up to 4 hours.  

How do I know if I submitted my application?

After submitting your application, ProjectDox will automatically send you an email notification. Check for an “Upload and Submit Task Assignment” email from ProjectDox with the Project name. If you did not receive an email than your application was not submitted. On the main screen click on the drop-down arrow next to “Applications” and select “Unsubmitted”. If your application is listed, edit your application and submit it.

 

How do I receive my permit?

Once the project passes the approval stage and all fees paid, the applicant will receive an email from ProjectDox to download their approved plans and permit. The applicant can download the permit to their desktop. Alternatively, the applicant can print the permit directly from the approved folder by clicking the permit and selecting the print icon on the top left hand corner.

How do I respond to corrections?

Within ProjectDox, click on the “Tasks (PF)” tab. This will display either a “Prescreen Corrections Task” or a “Respond and Resubmit” task. If either one of these items has a number (1) you have corrections requiring your attention.

 

How do I search by address?

Please refer to the tutorial video on the Village’s eLearning website https://www.royalpalmbeach.com/eLearn

How do I start my application?

To get your project started, you will simply sign into ProjectDox and complete all the necessary requirements on the e-form. We highly recommend you review the  Applicant Quick Guide, rather than directly logging into ProjectDox.

 

How to Print in ProjectDox?

Click here for instructions on how to print from ProjectDox. 

How will I know when all reviews are completed?

Once a full review cycle is completed, the applicant can run the “Plan Review - Review Comments” report. This report displays the status of all reviews for a project. 

I accidentally deleted my files from ProjectDox. Can staff retrieve/restore the files?

Once a file(s) is deleted, they are permanently removed. If a deleted file is needed, it must be re-uploaded.

I am trying to create an account but none of the passwords I submit are being accepted.

Password MUST NOT contain special characters! It must contain at least one digit, one upper case letter, one lower case letter, and must have at minimum eight characters.

I am trying to create an account but the system is telling me I have an account already.

Log into ProjectDox by going to www.royalpalmbeach.com/ProjectDoxLogin. Click on the Forgot password? link and follow the instructions.

I am trying to export changemarks but the markup icon is not present.

You have the ability to export changemarks when the project is approved. If you need access to export a changemark(s) before the project is completed. Please contact Village staff who will further guide you through this process.

I am trying to pay my permit fees online but I am receiving the following message. “No matching application found”.

Contact Village staff who will further guide you through this process. 

I am trying to reset my password but I am not receiving the verification code. I have checked my spam and junk email boxes.

If the verification code email is not present in your junk or spam box. Please contact Village staff. In addition the verification code for a PASSWORD RESET is good for 2 hours.  

I am trying to upload my documents but I never received an email.

Check your junk/spam folder in your email application. In addition, only the person who submitted the application will receive the “Upload and Submit Task Assignment” email. The email is simply a notification you have a task, at any point the applicant can log into ProjectDox and see if there are task that must be completed.

I am trying to upload my files but there is no “upload” button present.

The “Upload Files” button will not display unless you click on the “Drawings” or “Documents” folder within the project.

I cannot upload files. There are no permissions for upload.

If you cannot upload files, this means you currently do not have a task to complete and your project is with the Village. If you need to access the upload button, please reach out to Village staff who will guide you through this process.

I completed all the required fields on the application, everything displays as “complete”. With that said, I am not able to submit the request. What does this mean?

There is something incorrect on the application. Carefully review the application, specifically the “Work Description”. Only 250 characters are allowed in the “Work Description” field.

I do not have a computer or scanner at home to scan the drawings and documents. Does the Village have a computer and scanner I can use?

There is a kiosk and scanner for public use at the Village Hall. The Kiosk is located in the lobby of Community Development.

I have a MAC computer can I use ProjectDox.

ProjectDox runs on any computer, Mac, Windows, etc. in addition it runs on any browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge). 

I have created all of my drawing files – are there any file naming requirements?

For the Building department refer to the Building Document Naming Standards Guide which can be found by clicking HERE.

For Planning and Zoning department refer to the Planning & Zoning Document Naming Standards Guide which can be found by clicking HERE.

I made a mistake on the submitted OAS application. Can I go back and edit the submitted application?

No – Once you have submitted the OAS application no changes can be made a new OAS application must be submitted.

I need access to upload a file after I completed my task on the eForm. I forgot to upload a file.

Once a task is accepted, files uploaded, and you have selected “Upload Complete” on the eForm. The files are accepted for upload to that project unless a Village staff member rejects the plans and sends them back. If after submitting the project you realize a necessary file is missing, please reach out to Village staff so they can stop the review to have the task reopened for you.

I need help with the submittal process! Is there someone at the Village that can assist me?

We highly recommend you review the Applicant Quick Guide, rather than directly logging into ProjectDox. If you still require assistance, yes, please contact the personnel from the respective department, Building or Planning for assistance.

I uploaded my files but there is a yellow exclamation point for the thumbnail of my file. What does this mean?

This means there was a processing error while uploading the file(s). You need to re-upload the file(s) using the SAME file name(s) as the original submittal so ProjectDox versions it. Another option is to contact Village staff and request they delete the file(s) so you can re-upload the file(s).

I uploaded the wrong files, I am trying to remove them but there is no delete button.

Once your files are uploaded, you no longer have the ability to remove them. If a file or document needs to be deleted contact Village staff.

I was told my project would be archived what does that mean?

At times Village Staff will archive projects that were submitted by an applicant mistakenly. This helps us to manage the number of active projects that display on the portal. When a project is archived, the project and project data remain intact, but are moved to the Viewed Archived Projects area, which is only accessible to Village Staff. Any archived project can be un-archived.

In ProjectDox, I completed all the required fields for the Planning and Zoning Application electronically. Do I still need to complete a paper application and submit that as well?

Yes, you still need to complete the paper version of the Development Application and upload it into ProjectDox.

Is there a Building permit application on the website?

The Building permit application is now called the Contractor Data Sheet.

Is there a limit on how many individual documents, drawings files, etc.? I can upload at once.

Yes, the limit is 100 individual documents, drawings, or files. If you need to upload more than 100 files at once, please consolidate them into a .ZIP and upload the .ZIP.

Is there a record or a report of all documents/drawings I uploaded?

You can run the “All Files Report” report. Applicants can use this report to do the following:

•          Assist you with naming files for re-submittal correctly. (Re-submitted files must be named EXACTLY the same as the original submittal so that they will version over the prior file upload).

 

My address, "PCN' Property Control Number and Owner Information is incorrect in ProjectDox this needs to be updated.

Contact Village staff to have this corrected.

My documents/drawings are in a .ZIP format. Can I upload .ZIP files into ProjectDox?

Yes – Documents/Drawings can be consolidated into .ZIP files to save on upload time to the ProjectDox system. When the .ZIP file is uploaded successfully, ProjectDox will unzip the file and process the files in the folder as individual files. ***Please, do not drag files from an open ZIP window. Doing this will corrupt the files, thus displaying a yellow triangle for the thumbnail. This means your documents/drawings are unpublished and not useable.***

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