Building Permit Information

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 the 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, is safe and more likely to last. 

Safe construction practices help protect you, your family, your friends and your investment. Consider your department as an ally who will help you make your project a success.

Permits are typically 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

On-site inspection may be required as part of the process. The Code Office will let you know when and work with you to schedule a visit. 

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 protect 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.