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1. What projects require a permit?

Almost all items may require a permit, except for items such as replacing kitchen cabinets, flooring, painting, etc. Please contact our office if you have any questions at 352-241-7315.

2. Can I pull a permit as the homeowner?

Yes, as long as you own and occupy the residence. You will have to sign the owner builder affidavit. Also, beware of unlicensed contractors asking you to pull your own permit that may be a red flag. Contact our office if you are unsure.

3. What do Contractors need to register with the City?

Qualifier Registration Form, (can be found on our Website) State license, Business Tax Receipt (if applicable) and Certificate of Insurance for Liability and Workers comp.  If you are State registered, we will also need your Lake County Comp Card.

4. How can I tell if I am in the City limits?

You can go to the Lake County Property Appraiser website

Click on Property Search; enter your address, Under the Alternate Key Number click on the number and the property information will open up. If you look under the Millage Group and City:

A number means you are in Unincorporated Lake County (not City limits), or maybe even another City: a GR is for Groveland, MI, Minneola, etc. Remember although you may have a Clermont address that does not mean you are in the City limits.

5. How long is my permit good for?

You must have one approved inspection every six months to keep the permit active.

6. What are the setbacks for my property?

Depending on what your property is zoned will determine the setback as well as the type of structure you are wanting to permit. Please contact Building Services and they will be able to provide that information at 352-241-7315.

7. Does a fence require a permit?

Yes, the City does require permits for fences as well as repair and replacement. The average cost for a fence under 300 linear feet is around $89. Height for fences cannot exceed 6 feet behind the building line and cannot exceed 4 feet in front of the building line.

8. Do I need a permit to remove trees in my yard?

Yes. A homeowner or tree contractor must provide a site plan showing the location of all Canopy, Understory, and Palm Trees. They must indicate which tree (s) are to be removed. The Building Department will determine based on the size of your lot and how many trees you have whether or not you will have to replace them. The cost of a tree removal permit is $25 (regardless of the number of trees to be removed).

9. Is a permit required for Special Events on Commercial properties?

Yes, if this is on private property please email our Fire Marshal, Jennifer Piercevia. If you are inquiring about Special Events on City property, please contact the City Parks and Rec Department.

10. Are food trucks allowed in the City?

Only as part of a Special Event. You would need to contact the company who is having the event.

11. How do I schedule a Building inspection?

If you are a contractor, you should have already been setup to access our online system. This is where you will schedule all inspections. Homeowners can email us.

Please schedule before 4 pm the day before you are requesting your inspection.

12. Can I purchase an Irrigation Meter for my residence?

Yes, the homeowner would need to fill out the meter request form and pay the meter fee. The City will set the meter; however, it is the homeowner responsibility to have it connected.

13. What codes are in effect in Clermont?

Current codes enforced, effective 12/31/20 are at the Building Services Division.

14. How do I apply for a Business Tax Receipt?

Go to the City website and click on Building Services, then click on Starting a New Business. That will give you the information you need including what you need for creating a business name, etc.

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1. Who is my Qualifying Officer?

Your Qualifying Officer is City Clerk Tracy Ackroyd Howe, MMC email her or call 352-241-7330.

2. When do I file my Qualifying Papers?

The qualifying period for the 2023 Election is now closed. Qualifying for the 2024 Election will be in June 2024. 

3. What forms do I file?

• Appointment of Campaign Treasurer and Designation of Campaign Depository (Form DS-DE9)
• Statement of Candidate (Form DS-DE84) - Stating that you have received, read and understand the requirements of Chapter 106, Florida Statutes
• Loyalty Oath for Candidates for Public Office/Oath of Candidate (DS-DE 24B)
• Petition - The Petition must contain signatures of at least 25 registered voters in the City of Clermont and must be filed in a sufficient amount of time to allow the Petition to be certified by the Supervisor of Elections Office prior to the end of the Qualifying Period.
• Financial Disclosure Form (CE Form 1) (F.S. 99.061 (4) and 112.3145)

4. What fees are paid at time of qualifying?

A Campaign Account Check is made payable to the City of Clermont for a State Election Assessment fee of 1% of the annual salary of the position. (F.S. 99.093)

5. Where do I file my Qualifying Papers?

City Clerk's Office
Clermont City Hall
685 W Montrose Street
2nd Floor
Clermont, FL 34711

6. What are the Council Term Limits?

Clermont City Council Members and the Mayor are limited to four consecutive two-year terms. The voters approved this charter amendment in November 2019 to become effective in 2020.

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1. What is a Cross Connection?

A cross connection is a physical connection or arrangement of piping or fixtures between two otherwise separate systems, one of which contains potable water and the other, fluids, gases or other materials through which backflow may occur.

2. What is Backflow?

Backflow is the flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances into the City's potable water supply system from sources other than the City water system.

3. How is backflow prevented?

Backflow is prevented either by complete physical separation of piping systems or through the use of an approved backflow prevention device. Backflow prevention devices are required to isolate a private water system, such as water lines within a commercial site, at the point of connection with the City's public potable water system. With the use of an approved backflow prevention device water can flow from the City's public water system into the private water system, but water from the private water system cannot flow back into the City's public water system. Backflow prevention devices are also used to isolate fire lines, residential irrigations systems, and reclaimed water systems from the City's potable water system.

For detailed information on the installation, inspection, repair and maintenance of backflow prevention devices or for more information on Cross Connection Control, please refer to our Cross Connection Control Manual (PDF).

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1. Would installing a water treatment device in my home give me cleaner water?

Not necessarily. In fact, many point-of-use water treatment devices can add higher concentrations of sodium to your water. However, if you decide to install one, be aware of operational, maintenance and replacement requirements should be followed to ensure that your water treatment device performs as represented by the company selling the device. Also, it may be helpful for you to know that it is unlawful for any person who solicits the sale, rental, lease, or installation of any water treatment device to make false or misleading statements or claims regarding contamination problems in tap water.

2. Is bottled water better for me than tap water?

Again, not necessarily. Depending on the water source, bottled water is not tested as frequently as tap water for regulated contaminants as set forth by the state and federal governments. In Florida, bottled water is regulated by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. If you choose to drink a particular brand of bottled water regularly, we suggest you contact the company and request information on the frequency of water quality testing, together with a list of all contaminants tested and the amount at which they are detected.

3. Who is responsible for Water and Sewer Laterals?

The City of Clermont will occasionally receive calls asking where the line of responsibility is drawn in terms of repairs to water service laterals and sewer service laterals. We have put together a diagram to help should the question ever arise for you. As always, feel free to contact the Clermont Environmental Services Department if we could be of any further assistance. We can be reached at 352-241-0178 or Email Environmental Services

4. Is Service Lateral Maintenance is a Homeowner's Responsibility?

Service laterals are the pipes that run through your yard to connect water and sewer services provided by the City of Clermont to the plumbing in your home. Just as you own and maintain the landscaping, driveway, and block wall on your property, you also own and are responsible for maintaining certain portions of the water and sewer service laterals that run through your property.

Your responsibility for your property's water service line begins at the point where it connects to the City-owned water meter; this point is called your water service connection. Your responsibility for your sewer service lateral begins at the point where it connects to the City's sewer main in the street; this point is called your sewer service connection.

If you experience a water leak, blocked pipe or pipe break at any point on your side of your water or sewer service connection, you are responsible for repairs and for all associated costs. If the leak, blockage or break occurs on the City's side of the water or sewer service connection, the City is responsible for repairs.

5. What is a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)?

Outside many of your homes, a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) regulates water pressure to safeguard your internal plumbing. Fitted to the water service line, the PRV regulates incoming water so that even if the supply pressure fluctuates, you only feel a constant flow of water at a functional pressure.

Building codes require PRVs for structures with water pressure at 80 psi and above. This PRV is owned and maintained by the homeowner.

6. What can my water utility do about terrorism?

Water utilities throughout the country have been on a heightened state of alert for potential threats to drinking water since the attacks on 9-11 in 2001. A few of the precautions taken include aggressively monitoring for changes in water quality, limiting access to drinking water facilities, updating antivirus software to computer systems, and training personnel to respond to emergency situations. All Community Water Systems have recently prepared emergency response plans that address such attacks as well as hurricane, fire, drought, and loss of power events. The Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Health have been actively involved in assisting water utilities in tightening their security, receiving anti-terrorism training, and obtaining updated information released by water organizations, the EPA and the FBI. To report any suspicious behavior, call the Clermont Police Department at 352-394-5588 or dial 911.

7. Who is responsible for Water and Sewer Laterals?

The City of Clermont will occasionally receive calls asking where the line of responsibility is drawn in terms of repairs to water service laterals and sewer service laterals. We have put together a diagram to help should the question ever arise for you. As always, feel free to contact the Clermont Environmental Services Department if we could be of any further assistance. We can be reached at 352-241-0178 or Email Environmental Services

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1. What is reclaimed water?

According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, "reclaimed water" means water that has received at least secondary treatment and basic disinfection and is reused after flowing out of a domestic wastewater treatment facility.

2. What is reuse?

According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, "reuse" means the deliberate application of reclaimed water for a beneficial purpose.

3. Is reclaimed water approved for public access?

According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, reclaimed water meeting the requirements of Part III of Chapter 62-610, F.A.C., can be safely used for irrigation of residential lawns, golf courses, schools, parks, athletic fields, and other landscape areas.

4. Does reclaimed water smell?

Reclaimed water is not different from drinking water in appearance or smell. It does contain more nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, which are beneficial for irrigation.

5. What can I use reclaimed water for?

Reclaimed water is primarily used for irrigation. It is not safe to drink and must not be used for bathing, swimming pools, or irrigating plants with edible foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

For additional information on reuse, visit the Florida Department of Environmental Protection website.

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1. Can I burn a pile of lawn and tree clippings in my back yard?

Burning Authorization Required

Agricultural, silvicultural, land clearing, pile and acreage burning all require a burning authorization from the Florida Forest Service.

Burning Authorization Not Required

Authorization is not required to burn yard waste as long as you meet the required setbacks and there are no local, city or county ordinances in place that prohibit burning. Check with your local, city and county officials to find out if there are any restrictions in your area. You can contact the Division of Forestry at 352-797-4100.

For further detailed information check out an informational brochure from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (PDF).

2. How do I check my smoke detector to be sure it is working properly?

Smoke Alarm Information

Why is my smoke alarm chirping? 

If this is a battery powered detector, a chirp approximately once a minute typically indicates a low battery. Try replacing the battery, if that does not solve the problem replace the detector. For assistance, please call Clermont Fire Department's non-emergency dispatch center at 352-383-1200.

My smoke detector goes off for no reason, but only for a few seconds, what could be wrong?

This may be caused by dust or a small insect in the sensing part of the detector. Try vacuuming the outside of the detector to remove dust or pests that may have accumulated on the inside of the detector. If this does not solve the problem replace the detector.

3. How do I know if my child's car safety seat is installed properly?

Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of children today. Just having a child safety seat is often not enough. Statistics show that 4 out of every 5 car seats are used improperly. It is very important to have your child's car safety seat properly installed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has additional information on proper instillation of children safety seats. 

4. If I lock my keys inside my vehicle; will the Fire Department unlock it for me?

Our department will respond to an emergency situation, such as an infant or pet locked in the vehicle or a vehicle left with the motor running. However, because of the technological advances in vehicle locking mechanisms that are designed to prevent theft, damage to the vehicle is often sustained in trying to unlock the vehicle and some attempts to gain entry by our "lock-out kit" equipment are unsuccessful. If our attempts to gain entry without damage to the vehicle fail, we may use a punch tool to break one of the windows. Therefore, if there is no emergency involved, our department must regretfully decline a request to unlock a vehicle and will refer you to a locksmith.

5. What does Advanced Life Support (ALS) mean?

The Term Advanced Life Support is used to describe advanced equipment and procedures such as cardiac monitoring (including 12 lead electrocardiogram [ECGs]), cardiac pacing, intravenous access (starting IVs), endotracheal intubation (the placement of a breathing tube into the airway), chest decompressions, and the delivery of life saving medications.

6. What is a Knox Box?

"Knox Box" is a brand name for a small, heavy-duty safe-like box that is bolted through the exterior wall of a commercial building in the area of the main entrance to the building. "FailSafe" is another manufacturer of similar equipment. Keys for access to all doors in the building as well as any fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and mechanical system controls are contained in the box for use by fire personnel when responding to an emergency at the building. The box is connected to the building's burglar alarm system to monitor when the building's keys have been accessed or if the box has been tampered with. The Fire Department has a single, high-security master key that will open every rapid entry system lock box in the city. Fire departments across the country use this system to prevent costly forced entry damage and to rapidly gain entry to buildings in response to an emergency. 

The City of Clermont requires the developer of all new commercial buildings in the city to install either a Knox or FailSafe rapid entry system key access box. Owners of existing buildings in the city that have a fire sprinkler and/or fire alarm system are also being required to install a rapid entry system lock box.

7. What is a Cadet?

The mission of the Fire Cadet Program is to provide a youth program that will develop future firefighters and emergency medical providers. The program, sponsored by the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association Fire Cadet Section, is dedicated to "Home Growing Our Own" by ensuring the leaders of each local program have the resources to provide purposeful training in fire, emergency medicine and leadership development. 

The goal for the Clermont Fire Department is to provide a program that will provide the youth in our community an opportunity to become mature young adults with good leadership and decision-making skills. 

Clermont Fire Department Cadet Post 600 is open to young adults between the ages of 14 and 21 and at least in the ninth grade. Members must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average in order to remain active in Cadet Post activities. 

Firefighters, Paramedics and other adult staff over age 21 oversee the Cadet Program in the capacity of Cadet Advisors. Cadets attend training sessions related to fire and EMS and may be eligible to compete in Firematics competitions across the state. Some Post 600 members have completed training for certification as Firefighter II and Emergency Medical Technician while still enrolled in their senior year of high school, making them immediately eligible for employment as a full-time firefighter upon receiving their high school diploma. William Harrison, Fire Marshal, supervises the Fire Cadet Post. For more information, please call 352-241-2212.

8. What is the difference between an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and a Paramedic?

An EMT is trained in Basic Life Support (BLS) skills such as assessment, triage and treatment of medical and trauma patients, control of bleeding, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), the use of Automatic External Defibrillator's (AEDs), and the delivery of oxygen.

A Paramedic is trained beyond the BLS level to the ALS (Advanced Life Support) level to include advanced skills such as cardiac rhythm interpretation, the application of an external cardiac pacemaker, endotracheal intubation (the placement of a breathing tube), Intravenous (IV) and Intraosseous (IO - placement of needle into bone marrow) fluid therapy, as well as the ability to administer various cardiac, respiratory and pain medications.

9. Where can I get my blood pressure checked?

The personnel at all of our fire stations will be happy to take your blood pressure at any time they are not out of the station for emergencies, training, or other reasons. There is no charge for the service and service is available during reasonable daytime hours.

• Station Number 1: 439 W Highway 50
• Station Number 2: 2200 Hartwood Marsh Road
• Station Number 3: 2155 Legends Way
• Station Number 4: 13341 Hartle Road

10. Why does the fire truck respond when I call for an ambulance?

The Clermont Fire Department provides advanced life support (ALS) services, non-transport. Our Squad Companies and Battalion vehicle are equipped with the necessary life-saving equipment to have an "ALS" license. Because our service area is only within the city, our units have an average response time of less than 4 minutes. Fire Department units provide on-scene care, transfer the patient to the ambulance, and are then available to immediately respond to another call. The ambulance is not available to respond to another call until they transport the patient to the hospital and transfer care of that patient to the Emergency Room (ER) staff. Lake-Sumter Emergency Medical Services (EMS) currently provides the transport service.

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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1. What is ESports (Electronic Sports)?

This is a growing trend in recreation for leagues, tournaments, and games on gaming systems. Video games are played by a variety of ages and abilities this industry has also seen an increase due to isolation in the recent years. With ESports we are helping facilitate game-play on a virtual platform locally. Envision ESports like we would run a regular sports league; there are games, rules, code of conduct, referees, and brackets. The only difference is this is held virtually online as opposed to an in person sporting event.

2. How does this work?

We have partnered with a third party company, GG leagues, and we are running our league with them. The participants will sign up through GG Leagues to participate in the games, leagues, and tournaments. The participant will need to have the game, and gaming console associated with the game to participate. We are starting with five games for the winter season of Madden, Rocket League, Mario Kart, Fortnite, and Smash Brothers.

3. How do you sign up?

Go to our Clermont page through GG Leagues. Create an account, and look up our club City of Clermont to join. Purchase your ESports pass, and join the leagues/games you want, join the league and GG Leagues will take it from there! you will be communicated with from GG Leagues on scheduled of tournaments, code of conduct, how to submit scores and your opponents.

4. When does it start?

Registration opens starting October 25 for the Winter season of our five leagues. The registration will be through January 10 then the league will start games on January 24.

5. How much does it cost?

The pricing will vary, the winter league will be $40 to sign up for the season ESports pass. Once you have the pass you can participate in any or all of the 4 leagues for winter.

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1. What is criminal profiling?

When we investigate crime, we use every legitimate tool at our disposal to narrow the list of potential suspects so we can identify, find and arrest those responsible for the crimes, to bring them to justice and to keep them from committing more acts against society.

Criminal profiling can assist us by narrowing the field of potential suspects in major criminal investigations. Based on current and historical law enforcement investigative knowledge and experience, we scrutinize a set of facts and factors common to specific (e.g., serial murder with a certain 'signature') or general (e.g., narcotics trafficking) criminal activity. From these facts and factors, we may be able to identify a type of person or group of people by gender, age, race, and/or by personality, social, and/or other characteristics who are most likely to be involved. This can result in fewer suspects to consider and a quicker resolution to the case.

2. How does criminal profiling differ from bias-based profiling?

While criminal profiling does add elements (such as gender, race, or ethnicity) to a list of factors scrutinized to identify a suspect, these elements are only parts of several pieces of the puzzle that police must put together to solve crime.

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1. Where will the new wells be located?

This map shows the locations of the new wells: Lower Floridian Wells Locations (PDF)

2. Will my drinking water be affected or interrupted?

There should be no effect and no scheduled interruptions to your water service.

3. What can I expect during the drilling?

• There may be some minor noise and vibration experienced during the setting of the well casing.
• The contractor, A.C. Shultes, Inc., may contact you to inspect the premises prior to beginning the project. For quality control, the company may also seek permission to videotape your property to document the condition prior to starting the drilling process.

We know that you may have other questions now and during the coming year.

Please feel free to email Duane Land or call at 352-241-0178.