The Palm Beach County Owner-Builder Handbook

The only professional‑grade reference guide written specifically for owner‑builders navigating the Palm Beach County permitting, compliance, and construction environment.

Authored by Dr. Ray A. Ransom, Ph.D., Principal Consultant at Olson Moore Consulting.

Why This Handbook Exists

Palm Beach County is one of the most complex permitting and construction environments in Florida. Most owner‑builders begin their project with enthusiasm — and quickly discover:

  • The permitting process is far more technical than expected

  • The county requires documents they’ve never heard of

  • Subcontractor coordination is overwhelming

  • Inspections are strict and unforgiving

  • Mistakes are expensive and time‑consuming

This handbook was created to solve that problem.

It gives owner‑builders the clarity, structure, and professional insight needed to navigate the process with confidence — without relying on guesswork, online forums, or incomplete advice.