Accela: Frequently Asked Questions
Accela - Citizen Portal
Frequently Asked Questions: Accela Civic Apps FAQ Sheet
Do I need an account?
Yes. In order to do business with Sarasota County, an individual or organization must have an account. To learn more about registering an account, please click: HERE. | Additional information: Online Permitting
Will my account transfer from the old system?
No. Everyone must register in the new Online Permitting system. To learn more about registering an account, please click: HERE. | Additional information: Online Permitting
Can my account with another jurisdiction (County or City) be used for Sarasota County Online Permitting Accela?
No. Sarasota County Online Permitting is separate from all other jurisdictions using Accela. You must register for a new account with Sarasota County. You can use the same user ID and password as other jurisdictions if you wish. To learn more about registering an account, please click: HERE. | Additional information: Online Permitting
How can my Registered Agent access my account?
Registered Agents are called Delegates in the new Online Permitting system. To set up access to your account, the individual you wish to be a Delegate must first register for an account. Once they have registered for an account, you can assign them rights within your account. To learn more about Delegates, please click: HERE. For a written guide, please click: HERE. | Additional information: Online Permitting
How will permits, applications and petitions in the process be handled?
All records in-process at the time of transition will continue the process in the new Online Permitting system.
How can I see my active permits from the old system in my new Online Permitting Account?
All active permits, applications and petitions will be converted to the new Online Permitting system. If you are a contractor, once you have linked your license to your account, the converted records will be visible. All others who are identified as contacts on the records will need to follow the PIN process to view converted records.
What is the difference between an electronic signature and a digital signature?
An electronic signature is a document signing method in a virtual environment and is treated with the same authority as a handwritten or wet signature.
A digital signature differs from an electronic signature in that it’s backed by a certificate authority that has verified the signer’s identity, the same way a notary would verify a signer’s identity before certifying a signature.
This allows the Digital Signature to act as a verified signature in a virtual environment. Documents prepared by design professionals, such as architects or engineers, are required to be signed and sealed using a digital signature.
For general Accela questions, please email: scgaccela@scgov.net