Moving to a barrier island should feel exciting, not overwhelming. If you are heading to Navarre Beach, you likely want clear answers on utilities, permits and local services so your first weeks go smoothly. In this guide, you will learn who to call, what to file, and how to plan for coastal rules, safety and taxes. Let’s dive in.
Utility setup on Navarre Beach
Water and sewer
Navarre Beach water and sewer service is owned and operated by Santa Rosa County through Navarre Beach Utilities. To start service, call 850‑981‑8888 and complete the Owner or Renter Application on the county site. The utilities office is at 1411 Utility Dr, and the county also posts the annual water quality report and ACH forms. You can review forms and contacts on the county’s Navarre Beach Utilities page for details and downloads. Navarre Beach Utilities
If you need tap or connection information, the county posts the current rate and tap‑fee schedule in a downloadable PDF. Check the latest document for exact figures because fees update over time. Navarre Beach water and sewer rate schedule
Electricity
Electric service depends on your exact address. Properties in and around Navarre Beach may be served by Florida Power & Light, Escambia River Electric Cooperative or other co‑ops. Use the county’s provider list to identify the right company for your home. Deposits can apply, especially if you do not have prior service history. County list of electric providers
Natural gas and propane
Natural gas is not universal on the beach. Many homes use electricity or propane for cooking and heat. Confirm gas availability by address before planning new appliances.
Trash and recycling
Trash and recycling are provided through county‑managed franchise arrangements. Rules and pickup schedules vary by neighborhood, and you may not be able to choose your hauler. Confirm your assigned hauler, bin details and bulk pickup policies with the county or your HOA. Navarre Beach Utilities page
Internet and TV
Coverage and speeds vary by block. Fiber, cable, fixed wireless and satellite options are all present in the 32566 area, but availability is address specific. Ask the seller or HOA what is currently installed and run your exact address on provider sites before ordering.
Quick utility checklist
- Water and sewer: submit Owner or Renter application, bring photo ID and proof of ownership or lease, and call 850‑981‑8888 to set your start date.
- Electricity: use the county’s provider list to identify your utility and ask about deposits.
- Trash and recycling: verify your franchised hauler and pickup day, plus bulk rules.
- Internet: confirm the in‑place provider with the seller or HOA, then run address checks to choose a plan.
Permits and construction rules
Who issues permits
Santa Rosa County Development Services is the permitting authority for Navarre Beach. Most structural, electrical, plumbing and mechanical work requires permits and inspections through the county’s online portal. Start with the county’s Development Services quick links for permitting, contractor licensing and forms. County permitting and licensing
Projects that need permits
Replacing a roof beyond minor repairs, adding a deck or bedroom, installing a pool, or changing HVAC and water heaters typically requires permits. Small cosmetic work may not, but it is smart to confirm with Development Services before you begin.
Contractors and owner‑builders
Contractors must be properly licensed and registered to pull permits where required. Owner‑builders have specific rules and limits. Review the county’s contractor authorization and licensing guidance before you hire or start work. Permitting and licensing hub
Coastal and shoreline work
Navarre Beach is a barrier island. Work near the water, dunes or seaward of the Coastal Construction Control Line often requires state permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and sometimes federal approvals from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Typical activities include seawalls, dune alterations and private piers. These approvals can be complex, so start early and expect multi‑agency reviews. Coastal permitting context
Timing, fees and inspections
Plan review times and fees vary by project type and value. Minor permits can move quickly while additions or structural work take longer. Use the county portal to track status and schedule inspections. For any water and sewer connections, consult the county’s published tap‑fee schedule. Navarre Beach rate and tap‑fee schedule
Tips for buyers and sellers
- Sellers: confirm that recent work was permitted and inspected, or it could delay closing and insurance.
- Buyers: request a county permit search and review any final inspections or certificate of occupancy.
- Waterfront plans: if you are considering shoreline changes, talk with the county and state early and allow several months for approvals.
Safety, services and hazards
Fire, rescue and law enforcement
Navarre Beach Fire Rescue District provides 24/7 fire and advanced life support from Station 45 at 1413 Utility Dr. The district also handles beach rescue and coordinates lifeguards on the island. Law enforcement is provided by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. Add these contacts to your household binder from day one. Navarre Beach Fire Rescue
Hospitals and emergency care
For urgent care and emergencies, nearby options include Ascension Sacred Heart Emergency Care in Navarre at 7334 Navarre Pkwy. For major trauma, transports typically go to larger Pensacola centers. Know your closest ER address and keep it in your phone. Ascension Sacred Heart ER Navarre
Flood and hurricane risk
Much of Navarre Beach is in FEMA AE or VE flood zones with specific Base Flood Elevations that affect construction and insurance. Use the county’s GIS tools to check your parcel’s flood zone and other layers. Also learn your evacuation zone and sign up for county alerts before hurricane season. Santa Rosa County GIS and maps
Evacuation zones and alerts
Insurance and assessments
Coastal properties often carry higher insurance costs and may require separate flood policies. Some communities also participate in beach renourishment or storm‑repair programs that can lead to HOA or county assessments. Ask your insurance agent and title team for current premiums and any known assessments during due diligence.
Rentals, taxes and local admin
Tourist Development Tax
Short‑term rentals of six months or less are subject to a Santa Rosa County Tourist Development Tax of 5 percent in addition to state sales tax. Owners must register, collect and remit returns, typically monthly. Some booking platforms may remit certain taxes on your behalf, so confirm what is covered and what you still need to file. County TDT information and portal overview
Business tax receipts
Depending on your setup, you may need a county Business Tax Receipt in addition to TDT registration and state sales tax registration. Check current rules with the county clerk and Development Services.
Property taxes
The Santa Rosa County Property Appraiser and Tax Collector manage valuations and billing. Review parcel records for exemptions and any special assessments as part of your closing prep.
Move‑in timeline checklist
- 30+ days out: order a county permit search for the property and collect copies of any renovation permits and final inspections.
- 30 days out: call Navarre Beach Utilities at 850‑981‑8888 to schedule your water and sewer start date and submit your Owner or Renter application.
- 15–30 days out: identify your electric provider by address using the county list and ask about deposits.
- 14–7 days out: confirm your trash hauler, pickup day and bulk rules.
- Moving week: learn your evacuation zone, sign up for county alerts and save the nearest ER address, the fire district station number and the sheriff’s non‑emergency line.
- If renting short‑term: register for the 5 percent TDT and obtain any required Business Tax Receipt; set a monthly filing reminder.
Ready to make your move with confidence on Navarre Beach? If you want local guidance on homes, inspections, insurance and waterfront considerations, connect with Matthew Pace PA for clear, hands‑on advice.
FAQs
Who provides water and sewer on Navarre Beach?
- Santa Rosa County’s Navarre Beach Utilities handles water and sewer; call 850‑981‑8888 and submit the Owner or Renter application to start service. Navarre Beach Utilities
How do I find electric service for my address?
- Use the county’s provider list to see whether your address is served by FPL, EREC or another co‑op, then contact that utility to open an account. Electric providers list
What projects require permits in Navarre Beach?
- Most structural, electrical, plumbing and mechanical work needs county permits, while cosmetic repairs may not; confirm with Development Services before starting. Permitting info
Do I need special approvals for shoreline work?
- Yes, coastal work often needs state and sometimes federal permits in addition to county approvals, so start early and plan for extended timelines. Coastal permit context
Is my property in a flood or evacuation zone?
- Check your parcel using the county’s GIS map for flood zones and the evacuation page for your zone and routes, then sign up for alerts. GIS maps | Evacuations
What taxes apply to short‑term rentals?
- Rentals of six months or less owe a 5 percent county Tourist Development Tax plus state sales tax, and hosts must register and file returns. TDT overview
