Private Provider vs. Permit Expediter: Which Do You Need?

On this page
  1. What a permit expediter does
  2. What a private provider does
  3. Do I need both?
  4. Talk to a licensed private provider

This article summarizes Florida Statutes §553.791 as amended through 2026 (Chapter 2026-63, effective July 1, 2026). It is general information, not legal advice. Every project is different. Talk to our team about yours.

“Expediter” and “private provider” both promise a faster permit, but they work in very different ways.

What a permit expediter does

A permit expediter prepares and submits permit applications, tracks their status, and follows up with the building department. That can save time on paperwork and coordination, but the building department still performs the plan review and inspections. Your project stays in the municipal queue and on the municipal inspection schedule.

What a private provider does

A private provider is a Florida-licensed engineer, architect or building code administrator who performs the plan review and required inspections under Florida Statutes §553.791. The building department doesn’t re-review the building-code compliance the private provider approved, and must act within statutory deadlines or the permit is deemed approved.

Permit expediter Private provider
Performs plan review No Yes, licensed review with sworn affidavit
Performs inspections No Yes, every required phase
Licensed under Florida law for this role Not required Engineer, architect or building code administrator
Statutory permit deadlines No Yes: 10 / 5 business days, or deemed approved
Permit fee reductions No Required by statute for services the department doesn’t perform
Issues certificate of compliance No Yes

Do I need both?

Often, no. Florida Private Providers combines licensed plan review and inspections with permitting support. We prepare and file the private provider documents, coordinate with the building department and design team, and track your permit through issuance.

Talk to a licensed private provider

Florida Private Providers offers 3-day plan review, same-day inspections where available, and service in all 67 Florida counties. Start your project or call (941) 210-1420.

Keep reading

All resources
Getting Started What Is a Private Provider? A Plain-English Guide for Florida Projects Read article Getting Started Private Provider vs. Building Department: What’s the Difference? Read article For Builders Does Using a Private Provider Reduce Your Permit Fees? Read article