Work that Requires a Permit

The Building Division receives numerous phone calls with questions about what type of repair items require building permits. 

Items the Do Not Require Building Permits

There are only a few items in the Building Code that are allowed to be repaired or constructed without the benefit of a building permit.  These are as follows:

• Retaining walls less than three feet in height and three feet away from the property line or other structures.
• Sheds less than 120 square feet in area.
• Decks less than 30 inches above the ground.
• Flat concrete work. (Driveway work does require a permit)

Items that Require Building Permits

Some of the items that require building permits and inspections are:

• Installation of a new roof
• Installation of a furnace and / or an air conditioner
• Installation of a water heater
• Installation of vinyl siding
• Installation of a new front door
• Replacement and repairs to weather damaged siding
• Installation of exterior stucco
• Overhead patio structures (either attached or detached)
• Patio enclosures.
• Storage buildings over 120 square feet
• Carports for additional parking
• Bathroom and kitchen remodel/repairs
• Any electrical work
• All plumbing except the repair of fixtures

Additions

• Any construction which adds to the floor area or volume of an existing structure
• Area increases over 500 square feet require that school fees be paid

Remodels / Repairs

• Any structural modifications
• Any modifications to the weather / moisture protection of an existing structure such as disturbing the exterior finish to replace a window or the adding of stucco of an existing exterior siding.
• Any modifications to, the electrical wiring, the plumbing system or the mechanical system in a structure

Decks / Fences

• Any deck or patio over 30 inches above surrounding grade
• Any masonry fences

Reroofs

• Any roof repair or replacement which involves more than 25% of the total area