Marathon, Monroe County, FL
Very High Flood Risk88% SFHA

Marathon Construction
& Permit Services

MKC serves Marathon with coastal construction, FEMA compliance, flood permits, and engineering. This Middle Keys city was devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017 and continues active reconstruction and compliance work alongside a growing residential and vacation property renovation market.

FEMA Flood Risk in Marathon

Marathon occupies a series of Middle Keys islands with extreme flood exposure from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico on both sides. Approximately 88% of properties are in Zone VE or AE. The city's low elevation and island chain geography create extreme vulnerability to storm surge from any direction.

SFHA Coverage

88%

Flood Risk Level

Very High

Flood Zones

VE, AE

County

Monroe County

Services Available in Marathon

  • Flood Permits & FEMA Compliance
  • After-the-Fact Permits
  • Structural Engineering & Inspections
  • General Construction
  • Commercial Buildout & Renovation
  • Open Permit Closeouts & Code Violations
  • Electrical · Plumbing · Gas · HVAC
  • Sinkhole Remediation
Get Started

Marathon FAQ

Common questions about permits, flood compliance, and construction in Marathon.

How was Marathon affected by Hurricane Irma?

Hurricane Irma made direct landfall over the Florida Keys in 2017, causing catastrophic damage throughout the Middle Keys including Marathon. Many structures were substantially damaged or destroyed. MKC handles reconstruction permits, FEMA compliance, substantial damage assessments, and new construction throughout Marathon.

Does MKC handle City of Marathon permits?

Yes. MKC manages permits through the City of Marathon's Building Department and Monroe County for applicable projects. Marathon incorporated in 1999 and has its own building permit office.

What FEMA compliance is required for Marathon properties?

Marathon is predominantly Zone VE with some Zone AE. All construction must meet coastal construction standards — elevated on open pile foundations, breakaway walls below BFE, wave action engineering, and no fill under structures. BFE is typically 10–13 feet above grade in Marathon.

Does MKC handle vacation rental property renovation in Marathon?

Yes. Marathon's vacation rental and vacation home market drives significant renovation demand. MKC handles the full permit process for vacation property improvements, coordinating FEMA compliance and City of Marathon or Monroe County permits.

What is Monroe County's ROGO system and how does it affect construction?

Monroe County's Rate of Growth Ordinance (ROGO) limits new residential development in the Florida Keys through an annual allocation system. Renovation and reconstruction of existing structures is generally not subject to ROGO, but new construction and additions that increase living area may be. MKC advises on ROGO implications before projects begin.

Start Your Project in Marathon

MKC serves Marathon and all of Monroe County. We'll respond within one business day.

Your information is never shared or sold.

Serving all of Monroe County including Marathon and surrounding communities.

View all Monroe County cities