Annual Elevator Certificate (City of Miami Building Department, Elevator Division): Miami restaurant guide

City of Miami — Building Department, Elevator Division

What it is

Florida law requires every elevator, escalator or lift to carry a current annual certificate. In the City of Miami the Building Department's Elevator Division issues it after a state-approved third-party inspector files the City's inspection report.

When a restaurant needs it

If your restaurant depends on an elevator or lift (upper floor, rooftop, basement, or an accessible platform lift you install). The building owner usually holds it, but an expired certificate can stall your CU inspection.

How to apply

Hire a DBPR-licensed elevator inspector to complete the City of Miami Elevator Inspection Report and the periodic test form, email it to Elevators@miamigov.com, then pay the City's invoice within 90 days.

Documents you’ll need

City of Miami Elevator Inspection Report form
Periodic test form (hydraulic, traction or escalator)
Signatures of inspector, owner/representative and mechanic

Fee

Varies — the City invoices the certificate cost after the report is reviewed (amount not listed on the City page); pay within 90 days to avoid late fees.

Processing time

Varies; inspection then City review.

Renewal

Annually, with a Category 5 test every five years (ASME A17.1).

Who files

A State-approved third-party elevator inspector performs and files the inspection; the owner pays.

Good to know

Ask the landlord for the current certificate before signing; a new elevator or lift also needs its own building/elevator permit.

Official source

City of Miami — obtain an Annual Elevator Certificate

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.