Permitting made easy

“Our duty is to inform the homeowners of Miami-Dade County about the importance of obtaining permits for work being done to ensure both their safety and the safety of their home and neighbors,” said Nicole Ortiz, senior permit and plans specialist with the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) Concierge Homeowners and Assistance Team (CHAT). “Our department is built on the foundation of prioritizing homeowners and small businesses by helping them obtain permits for their properties and achieve compliance with violations resulting from unpermitted work.”

Ortiz began her career with Miami-Dade County in the Animal Services Department in 2018, shortly after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Florida International University. After her time at Animal Services and the Property Appraiser’s office, Ortiz joined RER in December 2021 as a Permit and Plans Specialist. In 2022, she was promoted to Senior Permit and Plans Specialist, the role she holds today.

When discussing the importance of her role within RER, Ortiz vividly recalls hearing disaster stories from residents.

“I’ve heard of cases where homes were destroyed in a fire caused by water heaters that weren’t properly installed,” she said. "These stories drive Ortiz to go above and beyond to assist homeowners. I put myself in their shoes. They become my priority, and I want to walk them through the process of applying for permits.”

This often means collaborating with other divisions, such as trades, building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and DERM, to come up with solutions.

Ortiz made an immediate impact when she first started at RER. She recalls her very first case, a homeowner who came in with multiple issues and was desperate for help. Upon reviewing the case, Ortiz applied some of her recent training and spotted a discrepancy that ultimately led to the removal of one of the liens on the property. These efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ortiz has received countless positive reviews from customers, who often highlight her professionalism, patience, genuine care and determination to meet their needs.

Ortiz’s ability to work collaboratively within the team at RER is also vital to her success. She regularly reaches out to colleagues in various divisions, ensuring that homeowners receive the best possible solutions for their permitting needs.

When not assisting homeowners at RER, Ortiz enjoys spending time outdoors, working out, boating and fishing in the Keys.