Building Permit Information

What is a building permit?

A building permit gives you legal permission to start construction of a building project in accordance with approved drawings and specifications. Building permits are very beneficial to you and your community. By working with an expert code official, you will benefit from their knowledge of the building codes to ensure your construction project is built right, will be safe and will last. Safe construction practices help protect you, your family, your friends andyour investment. Be sure to get your local code official involved with your project, because the building department is on your side.  You should consider your code official as an ally who will help you make your project a success.

When do I need a building permit?

Permits are usually required for the following:

• New buildings
• Additions (bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms, etc.)
• Residential work (decks, garages, fences, fireplaces, pools, water heaters, etc.)
• Renovations (garage conversions, basement furnishings, kitchen expansions, etc.)
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing systems
• HVAC (heating, ventilating and air-conditioning) systems

What are the benefits of having a building permit?

Increased Value--Your home or business is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with the codes adopted by your community, the value of your investment could be reduced. Property insurers may not cover work done without permits and inspections. If you decide to sell a home or building that has had modifications without a permit, you may be required to tear down the addition, leave it unoccupied or do costly repairs.

Protects--A property owner who can show that code requirements were strictly and consistently met, as demonstrated by a code official's carefully maintained records, has a strong ally if something happens to trigger a potentially destructive lawsuit.

Ensures Safety--Your permit also allows the code official to protectt the public by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and ensuring public health, safety and welfare. By following code guidelines, your completed project will meet minimum standards of safety and will be less likely to cause injury to you, your family, your friends or future owners.

How can I obtain a building permit?

Please stop by the Code Enforcement Department, located on the first floor of City Hall, from 8AM – 4:30PM; Monday through Friday. Applications are available at Code Enforcement and here.

Will I have to schedule on-site visits?

The code official will let you know when to schedule on-site visits.  A one or two day notice is needed when requesting visits.