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Building Division

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1. When do I need a building permit?

Building permits are required to ensure construction and the installation of equipment meets the minimum standards of the Florida Building Code as established by the State of Florida. Permits are required for, but not limited to: buildings/structures, renovations, service systems, gas, plumbing, mechanical/air conditioning, electrical, roofing, fences, tree removals, awnings, windows, doors, signs, antennas, poles, pools, fuel tanks, surfaces (concrete driveways, patio areas, walkways, etc.)

2. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?

Yes, you will be required to pull a permit when removing a tree, including dead trees.
You may apply online at: http://permits.ocoee.org

3. Do I need to obtain a permit to install of replace a fence?

Yes, and a site plan and structural details must be provided. You may apply online at: http://permits.ocoee.org

4. Do I need to obtain a permit to pour a concrete slab, patio, or driveway?

Yes, a site plan will be required with a description of what is being done. Depending on the scope of work, additional structural detail may also be required.

You may apply online at: http://permits.ocoee.org

5. Do I need to obtain a permit to replace my windows, doors, and garage doors?

Yes, Window-Door permits are required for the replacement of all exterior doors and windows. You may apply online at: http://permits.ocoee.org

6. Where do I apply for a building permit?

Apply, in person at: City Hall – 1st Floor, Building Division, 150 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida 34761. You may also apply online at: http://permits.ocoee.org

7. How can I pay my re-inspection fee so that I can reschedule my inspection?

You can reschedule, and pay fees on- line with a credit card at: http://permits.ocoee.org

You may also pay in person at: City Hall – 1st Floor, Building Division, 150 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida 34761.

8. Can I apply for a permit on-line?

You may apply online for residential and commercial permits at: http://permits.ocoee.org

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CRA FAQ's

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1. What is a Redevelopment District?

Redevelopment districts are established by local government agencies in response to conditions that are considered blighted, as defined in Chapter 163, Part III, Florida Statutes. If an agency, such as the City of Ocoee, is located within the jurisdiction of a Home-Rule County, then they must be delegated redevelopment powers by that County. If an area is determined to be blighted, and they receive delegation of powers, then the next step is to establish a community redevelop agency or CRA. Once a CRA is created then they oversee the development and implementation of a redevelopment plan to guide revitalization efforts over a period of years.

2. How are Redevelopment Districts Funded?

Once an agency is established and redevelopment district created, the Agency gains access to a revenue source called Tax Increment Financing (TIF). It is important to note, this is not a taxing authority or a new tax. TIF revenues are generated based on the incremental growth in property values within a district overtime as public infrastructure projects are completed and private reinvestment is realized. These funds are deposited into a Redevelopment Trust Fund and can only be used for programs and projects geared to revitalizing the redevelopment district.

3. Who makes up the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)?

The Ocoee CRA is comprised of seven (7) members. These members include the five (5) member City Commission plus two additional at-large members. One of the at-large members are nominated by Orange County.

4. When was the Fifty West Redevelopment District established and when is it scheduled to end?

The City of Ocoee’s Fifty West Redevelopment District was created in 2006 and is currently set to sunset in 2036, unless Orange County grants an extension of up to an additional 10 years.

5. Where is the Fifty West Redevelopment District?

City of Ocoee’s Fifty West Redevelopment District sits along a 2-mile stretch of SR 50 (W.
Colonial Drive) and is easily accessible from the Florida Turnpike, the East-West Expressway
(SR 408) and the Western Beltway (SR 429).

6. How large is the Fifty West Redevelopment District?

Approximately 1,070 acres.

7. What is the vision for the Fifty West Redevelopment District?

Fifty West will include centers of vibrant, urban, mixed-use development providing enhanced pedestrian and automobile connectivity, flexible land uses, diverse economic base, a mix of April 29, 2020 housing types, a shred responsibility of infrastructure financing, public open space and parks, creating an enhanced image and contemporary development form.

8. What type of projects has the CRA completed?

The CRA has completed several studies and master planning processes to further the
directives contained within the Ocoee Redevelopment Plan, including establishing three (3)
target areas. Target Area 1 is located south of SR 50 and west of Maguire Road and has seen
the demolition of the blighted Colony Plaza and new development. Target Area 2 is located
on the north of SR 50 and east of Bluford Avenue. Located in this area are new apartments
and will be home to City Center West Orange. City Center when completed will include over
54,250 sq. ft. of retail, 75,000 sq. ft. of restaurant, and 60,000 sq. ft. of office. Target Area 3
is located in the vicinity of Health Central medical campus.
Prior to 2020, the CRA improved the median landscaping on S. Blackwood Avenue, Old Winter
Garden Road and Clarke Road.

9. What projects is the CRA currently working on?

The CRA is currently working on the landscaping the medians of SR 50 in partnership with
FDOT who grant the City and CRA up to $775,000 in funding. Other projects include working
on stormwater and corridor plans for the entire redevelopment district.

10. Who do I contact if I have questions regarding the Fifty West Redevelopment District?

If you have a question or seeking additional information regarding the Ocoee CRA or the
work we are doing within the Fifty West Redevelopment District contact:
Ginger Corless, CRA Administrator
City of Ocoee
150 N. Lakeshore Drive
Ocoee, FL 34761
Email: vcorless@ocoee.org
Telephone: 407-905-3100 ext. 9-1028

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Ocoee Homepage FAQs

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1. What browsers are supported by the City of Ocoee's website?

We support the latest versions of all the major browsers.

2. What are the City of Ocoee Utility Billing Rates?

The current rate schedule (PDF) was changed and put into effect in October 1, 2016.

3. How do I make my monthly service payments?

There are many different ways to make payments. Payments may be mailed, paid in person, placed in the night drop box in front of City Hall, automatically deducted monthly from checking or savings accounts, online, or by phone.

4. How do I find out where my vehicle has been towed?

You should contact the Ocoee Police Department Communications Division at 407-905-3160.

5. What is reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater that has been transformed into a product that generally meets standards normally applied to drinking water. In addition to the advanced treatment process, reclaimed water must meet strict Florida Department of Environmental Protection Reclaim Standards for quality before it is provided to our customers.

It also takes the wastewater usage of 3 to 5 homes to produce enough reclaim to supply one home's daily irrigation demand. Thus, there are times when reclaim is unavailable because of treatment issues or high demands.

If your irrigation system appears not to be working, please contact the Utilities Department at 407-905-3159 to check reclaim availability.

6. Where should I install a smoke alarm?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas.

Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or above eye level on the walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

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P&R Camp Swim FAQ's

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1. How many counselors and/or children can I bring?

Groups may not have more than fifty (50) counselors and/or children inside the pool gate.

2. How many counselors do I need to have?

A counselor must be in the pool actively monitoring groups of up to ten (10) children. For groups of eleven (11) to twenty (20) children, two (2) counselors must actively monitor their group in the water. For groups of twenty-one (21) to thirty (30) children, three (3) counselors must actively monitor their group in the water. A ratio of one adult counselor per ten (10) children must be maintained at all times.

3. What days can I schedule a visit?

Pool usage for camps will be between the hours 11:15am - 2pm Monday-Thursday. No camp visits on Fridays and no more than two (2) dates per month may be reserved. Space is limited so dates and times will be reviewed by Aquatic Staff before being finalized.

4. How can I pay for my camp visit?

Payment must be in the form of cash or money order. NO CHECKS.

5. What happens if it is raining or there is a storm prior to or during my visit?

In the event that the pool is closed before your camp visit due to inclement weather, mechanical problems or any other reason beyond the control of the Parks and Recreation Department, we will reschedule you for another date based on availability. If there is a problem during your camps visit, please request to speak with the Aquatic Supervisor.

6. Do I need a Certificate of Insurance?

Applicants must supply a Certificate of Insurance reflecting minimum coverage of $1,000,000 Comprehensive General Liability Insurance, without deductible, per occurrence. The City of Ocoee shall be named as an additional insured which shall be noted on the Certificate of Insurance. The Certificate shall indicate that the applicant’s insurance policy shall not be cancelable with thirty days prior written notices to the County. A sample can be seen under the Camp Visit Paperwork section.

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P&R Fitness Room FAQ's

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1. What do I need to prove City of Ocoee Residency?

You will need your current City of Ocoee Water Bill and Drivers License with matching address.

2. What if the current water bill is not in my name?

You will need your current City of Ocoee Water Bill, Drivers License and another document such as bank or credit card statement or a cell phone bill.  The addresses must all match the water bill address.

3. Can I bring a friend?

You are more than welcome to bring a friend but they must be a resident of the City of Ocoee.

4. How old do I have to be to use the Fitness Room?

Participants must be 16 years or older.

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P&R Pool FAQ's

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1. Can I bring pool floats?

No, pool floats or noodles are not permitted to be in the pool.

2. Can I bring my own umbrella?

No, however The City of Ocoee does provide umbrellas. Umbrellas are limited and work on a first come, first server basis.

3. Can my child use goggles with a nosepiece?

No, goggles with nosepieces or snorkels are strictly prohibited.

4. Can my child wear waterwings?

No, waterwings are strictly prohibited.

5. What happens if it is raining or there is a storm during my visit?

There are NO refunds due to inclement weather. If you would like to return later that day please ask one of the Aquatic Staff Members for a hand stamp.

6. When does the pool close for weather?

The pool closes due to thunder, lightning, approaching storms and/or hard rain that causes the Lifeguards difficulty seeing the bottom of the pool.  When lightning is detected at 10 to 20 miles away, we close the pool to allow patrons to prepare to find shelter.  Lightning is one of the leading weather-related causes of death and injury in the United States. You can be struck by lightning even when the center of a thunderstorm is 10 miles away and there are blue skies overhead.

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P&R Pool Party FAQ's

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1. Can I have alcohol?

No. Alcohol and drugs, including cigarette smoking are prohibited. Intoxicated or impaired individuals will be asked to leave. Loitering or drinking of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in the parking lot.

2. Can I have music or a DJ?

Yes, ONLY for After Hours Pool Parties. However, The City of Ocoee has a standing noise ordinance. This noise ordinance is complaint driven and the Rental Party may be asked to turn down or turn off any music not meeting the City’s requirements. Please inform your chosen DJ of the City’s noise ordinance of which a copy can be provided to you. Any music performed or played requires written approval from Parks and Recreation Staff.

3. What happens if there is inclement weather before my party?

In the event that the pool is closed before your party due to inclement weather, mechanical problems or any other reason beyond the control of the Parks and Recreation Department, a full refund will be issued.

4. What happens if there is inclement weather during my party?

In the event that the pool is closed during your party, and less than 50% of the rental time is used, due to inclement weather, mechanical problems or any other reason beyond the control of the Parks and Recreation Department, the City will prorate the cost of the rental fee. If the rental has exceeded 50% of the rental time no refund, will be issued. There is also a $10 administrative fee deducted from the refund.

5. How can I pay for my rental?

Payment can only be accepted in the form of cash, check, money order or credit card. Checks must be written one month in advance of the rental date.

6. How many chaperons do I need to have?

Groups composed of minors shall be supervised by at least one adult who is 21 years of age or older per 15 minors at all times. Application for facility use must be made by an adult 21 years of age or older who will be present throughout the event and responsible for the activity. Minors must remain in the rented facility space and shall not be allowed to roam unsupervised.

7. Can I bring my own tent?

The City of Ocoee will provide two (2) tents which will be set up in the designated area by the Aquatic Staff prior to the pool party.

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P&R Swim Lessons FAQ's

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1. How do I register?

Registration is held at the Jim Beech Recreation Center, 1820 A.D. Mims Rd., on designated days for all available sessions during the summer. Any remaining spots will be on a first come first served basis during the season. Please bring a check or money order only in the amount of $60.00 for 8 group lessons or $135.00 for 8 private lessons.

2. Do I get a refund if I find out that I cannot attend an entire session?

Yes, for a refund notify the Parks and Recreation Department, 407-355-5462, at least one week before the session begins. There will be a $10 administrative fee to process the refund. If you do not let us know one week in advance you will not receive a refund.

3. If I miss a swim lesson due to a personal reason do I get to make it up?

No. Swim lessons will only be made up if the City cancels the class due to weather.

4. What happens if it is raining or there is a storm prior to or during my lessons?

Class will only be cancelled if there is thunder/lightning or heavy rain. Your child’s instructor will call and let you know if lessons are canceled 15 minutes prior to the start of the lesson.

5. Can I use the pool before and after my lessons?

Payment for the swim lesson program entitles the participant use of the pool during that lesson only. Pool admission must be paid for use of the pool after lessons.

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Police Department

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1. What is a public record?

All government documents are subject for inspection and copying, but there are those cases that these documents may be exempt from inspection and/or copying. Please refer to the Florida State Statutes, Chapter 119.

2. When will my report be ready?

Reports are usually available for release 5-7 business days, after reporting the incident. Occasionally the report may take longer depending upon the report review process.

3. Why can't I get a copy of a juvenile records?

Juvenile records are released in accordance to Florida State Statutes, Chapter 119.

4. Why is some of the information "blacked out" on my report?

Due to Florida State Statutes, Chapter 119, some information is not public record, as with the victim information in cases such as child abuse, elderly abuse, sexual battery, etc.

5. How come my request is not ready even when I called in advance?

In the past, requests for copies were made in advance, but the requestor either did not pick up the report or failed to mention that he/she had called in advance. Due to staff costs, reproduction costs, etc. we no longer fill the request in advance.

6. How do I find out where my vehicle has been towed?

You should contact the Ocoee Police Department Communications Division at 407-905-3160.

7. How do I find out about getting my property returned?

You should contact the Ocoee Police Department Property / Evidence Section at 407-905-3100, ext. 3052.

8. How can I locate information about crimes in a certain area?

Each month a calls for service report is completed. For prior months, you must appear in person at the Ocoee Police Department located at 646 Ocoee Commerce Parkway to request a copy or to view documents. If you require a list of calls for service for any area, please contact us by calling 407-905-3160.

9. Why do I need to show identification to obtain a copy of an accident report?

Motor vehicle crash information is confidential and exempt from Chapter 119.07(1) Florida Statutes and s.24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution for a period of 60 days after the date of the crash report is filed. However, such reports may be made immediately available to the parties involved in the crash, their legal representatives, and their licensed insurance agents.

For a complete list, refer to the Chapter 316.066(3c), Florida State Statutes to ensure that we are in accordance to Chapter 119, Florida State Statutes.

After the 60 days, identification will not be required.

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Property & Evidence

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1. Do I need an appointment to pick up property?

Yes, appointments are arranged Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

2. Do I need to bring identification?

Yes, you will need to bring a valid Florida picture identification / driver's license.

3. Is there a fee for getting my tag back?

No, the only fees are paid to the Tag Office and/or Driver's License Office.

4. Can my spouse pick up my property for me?

Yes, a spouse may pick up property if a notarized written consent of the owner is given.

5. Can I get my property back if I am a minor?

No, it will only be released to a parent or guardian, who must show legal guardianship proof.

6. Can I get my firearm back?

If the gun was taken as evidence or as part of an injunction you must get a court order signed by a judge specifically stated for the release of the firearm. This is also dependent on a background check.

7. The officers dusted for prints at my house. How long will it take to get results?

Most all evidence is sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Regional Crime Lab for processing. A time frame for the results is dependent on lab case priorities. This could range from a week to 6 months depending on the type of case.

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Public Works

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1. When do I place out my recycling bin/cart?

Recycling carts may be placed at the curb after 7:00 p.m. the night before but no later than 6:00 a.m. on your collection day. Remove emptied carts from the curb within 12 hours after pickup.

2. What can I recycle?

Recyclable Items Hand Out (PDF)

3. What do I do with the recyclables you don’t take?

Plastic bags, egg cartons, and meat trays can all be recycled at local grocery stores (Publix, Walmart, Winn Dixie) in recycling bin located near the front of their stores.

Styrofoam, bubble wrap, and any packing supplies can be recycled at a local pack and ship store.

Ink and toner cartridges can be recycled at a local office supply store.

4. How to Get Recycling Carts?

Recycling carts are provided free of charge to City of Ocoee residents. Simply call the Public Works Department at 407-905-3170. Please allow up to 5 business days for the cart to be delivered.

5. What do I do if I have problems or questions with my Service?

For curbside collection issues, call the Public Works Department at 407-905-3170.

6. NEW Trash Collection Flyer (PDF)

Trash Collection Bill Insert Flyer (PDF)

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Reclaim Water

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1. What is reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is highly treated wastewater that has been transformed into a product that generally meets standards normally applied to drinking water. In addition to the advanced treatment process, reclaimed water must meet strict Florida Department of Environmental Protection Reclaim Standards for quality before it is provided to our customers.

It also takes the wastewater usage of 3 to 5 homes to produce enough reclaim to supply one home's daily irrigation demand. Thus, there are times when reclaim is unavailable because of treatment issues or high demands.

If your irrigation system appears not to be working, please contact the Utilities Department at 407-905-3159 to check reclaim availability.

2. Is reclaimed water service's availability reliable?

Reclaim water is usually available for use by customers. Ocoee's reclaimed water must go through 5 different processes while continuously being tested, ensuring the final output will qualify for public contact standards. If any test fails, reclaim is immediately diverted to storage and reprocessed to ensure water quality.

3. How can reclaimed water be used?

Reclaimed water should be used mostly for the irrigation of lawns, flower beds, commercial properties, highway medians, parks, athletic fields, and schools. It can also be used for outside cleaning such as car washing, pressure washing, ornamental fountains / waterfalls, and the maintaining of pond levels.

4. Is it recommended for any other purposes?

Not at this time. You will still have to use potable (drinking) water for pools, hot tubs, or water-to-air cooling and heating systems. It can be used with vegetable and fruit gardens, however the produce must be peeled, cooked, or heat processed prior to eating. To ensure that we keep the drinking water pure, cross connections between the reclaimed water system and potable water or well systems are not allowed.

5. Is reclaimed water safe?

Yes, but it is not designated as drinking water. Physical contact with reclaimed water has no known negative health effects, so if you are accidentally splashed or sprayed with reclaimed water, there is no reason to be alarmed. Reclaimed water must meet strict Florida Department of Environmental Protection standards for quality before it is provided to our customers. The system is supervised 24 hours a day by licensed treatment plant personnel, as well as electronic monitoring devices.

6. Is the water safe for my grass and plants?

Very much so! In fact, the low level of nutrients contained in the water can be very beneficial to plant and turf growth. The treatment of reclaimed water produces water that is nonstaining, odorless, and has a good appearance.

7. Will it cost less?

Yes, it will! The rate charged for irrigation is less than drinking water. Please visit the Utility Billing section for current rates.

8. When can I irrigate with reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water is not subject to watering restrictions at this time. Please keep in mind, however, that the City of Ocoee recommends you do not irrigate between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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Smoke Alarms

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1. Why should my home have smoke alarms?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal—so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are the best safety devices you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home from fire.

2. Where should I install a smoke alarm?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas.

Also, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling or above eye level on the walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

3. How long will my smoke alarm last?

About 8 to 10 years, after which time they should be replaced. Like most electrical devices, smoke alarms wear out. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.

4. Where would I get a smoke alarm?

Contact the Office of the Fire Marshall at 407-905-3140. They will schedule to have one installed in your home at no charge.

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Utilities Department

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1. What time am I allowed to irrigate?

You may not irrigate between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., if you are irrigating with potable water.

2. What are my watering days?

Watering days are determined by the last number of your address. If your address ends in an even number, your water days are Sunday and Thursday during Daylight Saving Time and Sunday only during Eastern Standard Time. If your address ends in an odd number, or if you have no address, your watering days are Wednesday and Saturday during Daylight Saving Time and Saturday only during Eastern Standard Time.

Nonresidential properties (commercial and community common areas, for example) may water on Tuesday and Friday during Daylight Saving Time and Friday only during Eastern Standard Time. You may water on any day using a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle attached. Please be advised that certain cases such as parks and golf courses may have special exceptions to these restrictions, and/or may use reclaimed water for irrigation.

3. What if I am using reclaimed water?

Customers using reclaimed water for irrigation may water on any day of the week, however we recommend they do not irrigate during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Please remember that while reclaim is beneficial and perfectly safe for plants and grass to “drink”, it is not recommended that people consume it or use it to fill swimming pools. If irrigating plants that bear fruit or vegetables, it is a good idea to rinse them thoroughly before eating or cooking with them.

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Utility Billing

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1. What are the City of Ocoee utility billing rates?

The current rate schedule (PDF) was changed and put into effect in October 2016.

2. When is the cut-off date?

Cut-off dates change monthly, and are located on your utility bill each month. You may call 407-905-3191 for more information.

3. When are the utility bills mailed?

Utility bills are mailed the last week of every month.

4. When are the utility bills due?

Utility bill due dates change monthly, it will be noted on your bill.

5. How do I make my monthly service payments?

There are many different ways to make payments. Payments may be mailed, paid in person, placed in the night drop box in front of City Hall, automatically deducted monthly from checking or savings accounts, online, or by phone.

6. What is your mailing address for payments?

Please mail payments to:
City of Ocoee
P.O. Box 70
Ocoee, FL 34761

7. What forms of payment do you accept?

The Utility Billing Office accepts cash, check, money order, or debit cards with a Mastercard / Visa, Discover, and American Express logo. Fees may apply.

8. What is the phone number to pay by phone?

The number to pay by phone is 866-974-2058.

9. Can I give my credit card number over the phone to make a payment?

Yes, you can give your credit card number over the phone through Point and Pay by calling 866-974-2058.

10. How do I view or pay my bill online?

To make a payment online, access our online payment center and enter your account number and password. Your pin is the last 4 digits of the social security number of the person on the account.

11. Where is the drop box?

The drop box is a stainless steel box located in the public parking lot at City Hall. The drop box is emptied at 10 a.m., Monday through Friday. Payments placed in drop box may not be posted until next business day.

12. When are "late fees" posted?

Late fees are posted 5 working days after the due date (no exceptions).

13. What is the late fee amount?

The late fee is $10, per the Date of Commencement of Resolution January 23, 2004.

14. How long are deposits retained?

Deposits will be returned as a credit to your account after 24 consecutive months of service without water service being shut off or a notice of lien being filed for nonpayment.

15. How can I have my water service bill automatically withdrawn from my account?

To have your water service bill automatically withdrawn from your account, please complete the Authorization Agreement for Utility Automatic Payments Form (PDF).

Mail the completed form and a voided check to the Utility Counter at:
City Hall
150 N. Lakeshore Drive
Ocoee, FL 34761

You may also contact the Utility Counter at 407-905-3191 for more information.

16. How do I request emailed utility bills?

To request emailed utility bills, send an email to electronic billing. Be sure to indicate whether you would still like to receive your bill by USPS mail as well as by email.

17. What is the phone number for the local Driver's License Bureau?

You can call 407-836-4145 or 407-445-5462 for the local Driver's License Bureau.

18. What is the phone number for the local auto tag office?

The phone number for the local automobile tag office is 407-836-4145.

19. When is garbage pick up?

Please contact Public Works for all collection service questions at 407-905-3170 or visit the Public Works section for additional information.