Source: http://templeterrace.com/FAQ.aspx
Timestamp: 2019-04-20 02:22:26+00:00

Document:
11250 N. 56th Street ( 2nd Floor). Our friendly staff will assist you in determining the type of permit you will need for your project. Homeowners and contractors alike are encouraged to ask questions about our permitting, inspection and plan review processes. Our staff members can guide you through the process and assist in obtaining additional information that may be required to get a permit. Submittal requirements vary with the type work to be done, the location of the project, and whether it is commercial or residential in nature.
2. What are some common types of permits?
3. When is a permit required to do work?
Anyone who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or desires to do the same to electrical, mechanical, plumbing or gas systems -- the installation which is regulated by technical codes -- shall first make application to the Building Department and obtain a permit.
1. Roof, re-roof or repair an existing roof of less than 100 square feet.
2. Apply stucco or siding involving less than 501 square feet.
3. Install fascia and soffit involving less than 101 linear feet.
4. Installation/construction or moving of any pre-manufactured accessory structure or building involving less than 151 square feet. Zoning issues may apply.
5. Construct non-structural concrete slabs or install pavers involving less than 100 square feet. All work involved in City right-of-way shall require a plan review and permit.
6. Minor non-structural work where the total for labor and material is less than $1,000, as determined by the Building Official, provided the work is not part of a larger overall operation segmented to evade normal permitting requirements.
7. Any portable heating, cooling or ventilating appliance.
5. What are the building codes the City of Temple Terrace use?
By state law we are mandated to use the latest edition of the Florida Building Code (building, residential, gas, plumbing, mechanical and existing building). The latest edition of the National Electrical Code (N.E.C.) is adopted for electrical applications by reference. The Florida Fire Prevention Code has been harmonized with the Building Code to establish unified and consistent standards.
6. Can homeowners pull building permits?
Yes, with certain criteria and restrictions being met. Homeowners are in essence acting as their own contractor and must directly supervise all work on the project. They are also responsible for the coverage of taxes and insurance on individuals working on their property. The address on the permit must be the primary residence of the owner and it cannot be for sale or lease. The homeowner is responsible for hiring licensed contractors to do the construction work, except when the homeowner is a licensed contractor or is doing the work himself. We do not encourage the issuance of homeowner permits for electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems for safety reasons. We require that homeowners hire licensed contractors for this type work.
7. Can a contractor do any type work that I need done?
A contractor can only perform work listed under the scope of his license. (e.g., a plumbing contractor cannot do electrical work; a mechanical contractor cannot construct a building).
8. With permits, who is responsible for scheduling inspections, correcting violations and paying reinspection fees?
The applicant of each individual permit is the responsible party. We discourage owners calling for inspections when a contractor has secured the permit to avoid confusion about the timing of inspections.
9. What incidental paperwork must I submit to obtain a building permit?
All submittals vary according to the type of permit you desire. In just about every case, though, a current survey will be requested of applicants, whether they are a contractor or a homeowner. In the case of homeowner applicants, proof of ownership will most likely be requested as well. Each permit application contains information that outlines what submittals are required. The office staff can assist with this when applications are made.
10. What construction documents are required to be submitted for building permits? Do they require the stamp and approval of an architect or engineer?
Construction drawings depicting the proposed work are always required. See link below for required submittals. The Florida Building Code requires that they be prepared by design professionals where required by statute. The building code does offer the building official some leverage to decide if engineered stamps are required. A general rule of thumb in the department is that if the work involves a foundation, wall or roof system, then we will ask that drawings be stamped. Plans for minor mechanical work generally are not required.
11. How does the inspection process work?
You have two options for scheduling inspections, either by phone or online. A phone line (813-506-6464) is dedicated to scheduling inspections. Requests made prior to 8 am on the current business day will be scheduled for that day. Requests made after 8 am will be scheduled for the the following business day. To schedule an online inspection go to link below and follow the instructions. Permits must be posted, and access to the work is required for inspectors to conduct their inspection. Specific times are typically difficult to accomplish. If this is absolutely necessary, the permit holder can contact our office at (813) 506-6473 the morning of the scheduled inspection, and our inspectors will make every effort to accommodate the requested time.
12. Do I need a permit to install a security system in my home?
Security systems generally require less than 50V to operate. For this reason, the National Electrical Code does not require the system to be guarded; thus, no permit or inspection is necessary.
13. At what stage of construction can I get an electric meter released for my project?
If a new electric meter needs to be installed on a project, the release of this meter is conducted when a final inspection is approved. Earlier releases are possible in some cases with the permission of the building official.
14. What constitutes a final inspection?
Final inspections are given when all the components of a permit are in place. Partial final inspections are not given.
15. How can I find out how much a permit costs?
16. When do I have to file a Notice of Commencement?
For any direct contract valued greater than $2,500 ($7,500 to repair or replace an existing heating or cooling system) a recorded NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT is required prior to the first inspection. It is to be filed with Hillsborough County Clerk of the Court, with a copy of the recorded document provided to the building department.
17. Is a Certificate of Occupancy required for any construction project?
2.The occupancy classification of a building changes.
If you desire a formal certificate upon finalization of the inspection process, a Certificate of Completion can be issued upon request.
18. I have a project that is almost complete. Can I get a Certificate of Occupancy?
C.O.’s are not issued unless all permits on the project are finalized and closed out. Certificates often are requested for loan closing purposes. Until all required inspections are approved, a C.O. cannot be issued.
1. Can I drop off SHARPS at the fire station for disposal?
For additional information, contact the Hillsborough County Health Department, Environmental Services, Biomedical Waste Program, at (813) 307-8059.
2. Can I pick up free smoke detectors from the fire department?
Yes, if you are a resident of Temple Terrace (supplies may be limited). To check smoke detector availability or for more information, contact the Fire Department’s Division of Risk Reduction at (813) 506-6690 of visit them at City Hall.
3. Does the fire department offer or install free child car seats?
No. The Fire Department does not offer car seats. If you need a car seat, please reach out to St. Joseph’s Children’s Wellness & Safety Center at (813) 615-0589 to register for a car seat. If you do have a car seat but need it installed correctly or inspected to ensure that it meets the appropriate standards of the law, contact (813) 443-3074 or click here for Car Seat Classes.
The Children’s Board Family Resource Centers are located throughout Hillsborough County and offer programs and services to help you obtain car seats and more. They are also connected with St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. See their locations here.
4. Why do fire trucks go on rescue (EMS) calls?
We utilize a priority dispatch system, meaning that the type of call we receive dictates the number of Firefighters and Apparatus that respond. Depending on the severity of the incident, some calls only warrant a Rescue (Ambulance), while others require both a Rescue and Engine. There only are 2 Firefighter/Paramedics on each Rescue Apparatus, so if additional Firefighter/Paramedics or equipment are needed, the Fire Truck will be dispatched to assist. Our Fire Trucks carry the same medical equipment as the Rescue Units and are staffed with certified Paramedics.
5. Who do I call for a fire inspection?
Contact the Risk Reduction Division at (813) 506-6693.
6. How do I apply for a Knox Box for my residence?
7. Will the Fire Department take my prescription drugs?
8. Does the Fire Department fill swimming pools?
No. The fire department will not remove an emergency vehicle from service to fill a swimming pool. Please contact a pool professional.
9. Does the Fire Department dispose of fire extinguishers?
No. If you need to dispose of an extinguisher, refer to this list of Hillsborough Hazardous Waste Drop Off Locations.
10. Does the Fire Department offer CPR classes?
Call (813) 506-6700 for more information.
11. Does the Fire Department offer blood pressure checks to the public?
12. Can I have an open burn? Is there a burn permit?
The criteria for having a fire is contained in the Burn Permit, found here.
Hillsborough County residents may get a library card by providing picture ID, proof of address and a completed application. Applications are located at the circulation desk. Cards for children under 17 will require a parent or legal guardian's signature.
2. Can I fax things from the library?
No, we do not have a public fax machine.
3. Can I print at the library?
Yes, printing is 20 cents per page and in black and white only.
1. Can anyone use the sports fields at the different sports complexes?
No, use of any sports field requires a permit from the Parks and Recreation Department. These permits are issued from the main recreation office at the Family Recreation Complex.
2. Do I have to live in Temple Terrace to obtain a recreation membership?
No. There are a variety of membership levels for both residents and non-residents, including reduced rates for seniors. For more information on how to join, call (813) 506-6600.
3. Does the city have facilities for rent?
Yes. The Parks & Recreation Division permits the rental of various facilities for private use, including swimming pools, meeting rooms, gymnasiums, soccer fields, baseball fields and more. For information on availability and fees, please call (813) 506-6600.
1. What number do I call to pay my utility bill?
For questions regarding you bill or to pay your bill, please call (813) 506-6420. You may also pay your bill online.
2. How do I report a dead animal for removal?
The Public Works Department will remove a dead animal that is on a city road. Call (813) 506-6570 to request a removal. Public Works will NOT remove a dead animal located on private property. Public Works also will NOT remove a dead animal that is on a county or state road. To request removal from a county or state road, please call Hillsborough County at (813) 272-5900.
1. What if I am not the driver of the vehicle at the time of the violation?
As the registered owner of the vehicle, you are deemed responsible for the violation and the payment the penalty unless, in compliance with Florida Statute § 316.0083(1)(d)1.a-d, you establish by a sworn affidavit that a statutory exemption applies. The exemptions are that the motor vehicle: (a) passed through the intersection in order to yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle or as part of a funeral procession; (b) passed through the intersection at the direction of a law enforcement officer; (c) was, at the time of the violation, in the care, custody, or control of another person; or (d) a UTC was issued by a law enforcement officer to the driver of the motor vehicle for the violation of Florida Statute § 316.074(1) and § 316.075(1)(c)1 stated in this Notice. The affidavit must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths.
If you assert that the vehicle was in the care, custody, or control of another person, you must provide the name, address, date of birth, and, if known, the driver’s license number of the person who leased, rented, or otherwise had care, custody, or control of the vehicle at the time of the violation. ACCEPTANCE OF THIS ASSERTION BY THE TEMPLE TERRACE PD WILL RESULT IN THE ISSUANCE OF A UNIFORM TRAFFIC CITATION TO THE PERSON NAMED IN THE AFFIDAVIT. If the vehicle was stolen, then the affidavit must include a copy of a police report showing the vehicle to have been stolen. If you assert that a UTC was issued by a law enforcement officer for the violation of Florida Statute § 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1 stated in this notice, then you must include the serial number of the UTC. For faster processing, you may, but are not required to, include a copy of the UTC.
You may download and print the Affidavit of Non-Responsibility form from the links at the bottom of the page on www.violationinfo.com.
2. Why has the City of Temple Terrace decided to implement the Intersection Safety Program?
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, annually nearly 2 million crashes occur in intersections. In 2005, red light running resulted in 800 fatalities and over 165,000 injuries.
It is believed that an Intersection Safety Program will reduce the number of red light crashes and injuries associated with such crashes. The purpose of this program is to increase traffic safety in City of Temple Terrace. The goal of the program is to reduce red light running violations, red light crashes, and red light injury crashes without impacting town funds.
3. What exactly constitutes a red light violation?
Pursuant to Florida Statutes §§ 316.0083, 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1, it is a violation of the red light if a vehicle proceeds into an intersection equipped with a photographic traffic control monitoring system when the traffic control signal for that vehicle’s direction of travel is emitting a steady red signal. When a motorist receives a Notice of Violation, it has been determined that their vehicle has proceeded into an intersection by entering the crosswalk on the near side of an intersection when the traffic control signal, for the direction in which the vehicle was traveling, was emitting a steady red signal. Motorists already in the intersection when the signal changes to red, when waiting to turn for example, are not considered red light violators.
4. Why did I receive this Notice of Violation?
Based upon images captured by the automated system, your vehicle was determined to have failed to comply with a steady red signal. As the owner of the vehicle, the Notice of Violation is mailed to you. For every violation captured by the cameras, the images and video are reviewed and approved by the City of Temple Terrace Police Department before a Notice of Violation is issued and mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.
5. If I am in the intersection when the light is yellow and the light changes to red, will I receive a Notice of Violation?
No. The automated camera system only becomes active once the red light is showing. It will not capture a vehicle if the vehicle enters the intersection prior to the light changing to red. If you entered the intersection on yellow, it is legal to clear the intersection if the light turned red while you were still in the intersection.
6. What happens if I ignore the Notice of Violation?
If you fail to respond, a Uniform Traffic Citation (“UTC”) will be issued to you, UNDER THIS STATUTE FOR THE STATED INFRACTION you may become responsible for court fees and costs. Upon issuance of a UTC, you shall have the remedies specified in Florida Statutes § 318.14, which include the right to have a hearing before a designated official, who shall determine whether an infraction has been committed. If the official concludes that no infraction has been committed, no costs or penalties shall be imposed. If the official concludes that an infraction has been committed, the official may impose an additional civil penalty not to exceed $500 and court fees and costs.
7. I have received a UTC, may I submit an affidavit?
Yes, you may submit an affidavit. You must download the Post UTC Affidavit from the links at the bottom of the page on www.violationinfo.com. The Post UTC Affidavit must be mailed to the Police Department. Submission of an affidavit does not guarantee a dismissal of the UTC. You may call Customer Service at 1-866-225-8875 ten (10) days after submission to check on status.
8. Will I receive any points on my driving record for this violation?
No, this is a non-criminal infraction that is not reported to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles.
9. Will my insurance rates be affected?
No, this is a non-criminal infraction and is not reported to any insurance agencies.
10. Will the red light cameras take a picture of the driver of the vehicle?
No. A violation of Florida Statutes §§ 316.0083, 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1 is a civil violation assessed against the owner of the vehicle; it is not a criminal violation. Similar to a parking ticket, there is no need to identify the driver and therefore, no need to capture the image of the driver.
11. Is this only a revenue generating program?
This is a safety program. Automated safety systems have been shown to reduce red light violations and intersection crashes. Numerous studies throughout the U.S. and worldwide, as well as the experience of many other cities, indicate significant decreases in red light running violations and collisions after cameras were installed. Often times, a spill-over effect results from automated enforcement: other intersections not monitored by automated enforcement also see a decrease in violations and accidents because of the presence of enforcement in other areas of the community.
12. What if I was issued a citation from an officer for the same offense?
The citation issued by a police officer takes precedence over the Notice of Violation. You must submit an affidavit with the serial number of the UTC that you received for violation of Florida Statute § 316.074(1) and 316.075(1)(c)1. For faster processing of the affidavit, you can include a copy of the UTC.
13. How much time do I have to pay my Notice of Violation?
It is recommended the completed signed and notarized affidavit or payment is received 8 days prior to the due date specified on the front page of this notice to be appropriately processed or a UTC will be issued at a higher cost. If you have questions regarding payments please contact Customer Service at 1-866-225-8875.
If you feel as though you are entitled to a refund, please submit your request on the Red Light Refund Form. Send the completed form to the address specified at the top of the form.
15. I have received multiple Notices of Violation; do I have to send in a payment for each?
If you have multiple violations in one city you may send one check with the individual coupons enclosed and the notice numbers written on the check.
If you have multiple violations in different cities you must send a separate check for each violation. If you send one check for multiple violations that occurred in different cities your check will be rejected and returned to you.
16. What if my check is returned?
A Uniform Traffic Citation may be issued at an increased amount if the violation payment is returned. You will be responsible to pay this fine to the court.
17. Can I make payments in installments or set up a payment plan?
18. I paid the violation; why did I receive another notice?
The notice you just received could be for additional violations or it could be a UTC which is now a past due notice. If it is a past due notice, chances are that your payment and the notice crossed in the mail. It can take as many as 5 business days to show in the system once the payment is mailed. Call 1-866-225-8875 to confirm that your payment was received.
19. Do I have to pay my fine the day of the hearing?
You must pay the full fine amount within 10 days of a liable judgment.
20. What happens if I do not pay the Notice of Violation?
21. I do not believe I ran a red light. Where can I go to view my images and video?
You can view your images on any computer with an Internet connection. Log on to www.violationinfo.com. To log on to the site you must enter the Notice Number and the PIN Number located at the top right of your Notice of Violation.
22. How much do I have to pay for a Hearing?
A person who is found liable after a Hearing can be liable for an additional penalty, courts costs and fees not to exceed $500, in addition to the amount of the civil penalty assessed for the violation.
23. Can I schedule a hearing?
If you wish to have a hearing, do not respond to the Notice of Violation. A UTC will be issued with instructions on how to proceed for a hearing.
24. Can I make a hearing request over the phone?
25. Can someone other than me attend the hearing?
Only you or your legal counsel may appear at a hearing.
26. Is there more than one place that I can attend my hearing?
27. Can I bring a lawyer to the hearing with me?
28. How do I know that these violations are valid?
Images of your vehicle were captured and recorded by a Traffic Safety Camera. You can review your images and video of the actual occurrence online. The images and video were reviewed by several qualified technicians and finally by the City of Temple Terrace Police Department before the alleged civil infraction was affirmed and mailed to you as the registered owner or identified driver.
29. How do I know that these violations are valid?
30. What company provides the red light camera program in City of Temple Terrace?
The City of Temple Terrace has contracted with American Traffic Solutions Inc. to provide the Intersection Safety Program. ATS will install and maintain all equipment related to this program and process all violations captured by the equipment.
1. I have my own well and do not use City water for irrigation. Do I still have to follow the watering restrictions?
Yes, the watering restrictions apply for all water sources - surface and ground water, private wells and utility supplied water.

References: § 316
 § 316
 § 316
 § 316
 § 318
 § 316