Planning & Zoning

Notice

The Growth Management Department has transitioned to a new online software system (My Government Online) for the processing of Permits/Inspections, Planning/CRA applications, BTRs, and Code Enforcement cases.

Updates

All applications will now be applied online at My Government Online (MGO). Please click here to access the MGO Customer Portal.

If you have any questions you can reach the help desk at 866-957-3764. Thank you!

Division Spotlight

Did you know that an annual permit is required to operate your golf cart on City streets? For more information, please contact the Planning Division at 850-833-9605 or Email Planning.

Overview

The Planning Division is responsible for sustainable growth and development in Fort Walton Beach, ensuring implementation of the Comprehensive Plan, and compliance with the Land Development Code. The Planning Division encompasses the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), Brownfields Program, Development Review, and Business Tax Receipts (BTR). The Division also administers FEMA's Community Rating System (CRS) Program which provides premium discounts on flood insurance.

Visit the subpages of this section to learn more about any of these programs.

Please contact a Planner at 850-833-9598/9697 for more information or Make an Appointment today.

Zoning Determination Letters

Written zoning/use determinations are usually prepared within 1-2 business days.

Special Events/Temporary Businesses

A temporary use permit is needed for the following type of activities:

• Outdoor farmer's market/food sales
• Parade/walk/run
• Car washes
• Door-to-door soliciting
• Festivals/events

A temporary event shall not exceed 15 days in any one month (this includes roadside and mobile vending). A special event shall not exceed 7 consecutive days.

A temporary use permit is $36 and applications must be submitted at least 15 days before the proposed use/event.

Downtown Design Overlay District (DDOD)

The Downtown Design Overlay District (DDOD) is established to preserve and promote the downtown area of Fort Walton Beach. The intent of the DDOD is to provide flexibility in location and design requirements to support and encourage economic development in the downtown area.

The DDOD is intended as a location where specific site design features will be provided to ensure flexibility in the location of activities, accessory structures, and other site design requirements, consistent with a downtown location.

The DDOD is intended to encourage the provision of design features necessary to support economic development and to maintain appropriate development characteristics within the DDOD.