Do I need a Building Permit? A building permit gives you legal permission to start construction of a project in accordance with approved drawings and specifications. Building permits are very beneficial to you and your community.  By working with an expert codes 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 and your investment. Be sure to get your local code official involved with your project, because the building department is on your side.

When do I need a building permit? The best way to find out if you need a permit is to call your local building department.  The staff is there to serve the public by providing information about safety and understanding of your local building codes.  Be sure to discuss your plans with the code official before you begin construction to determine whether you need a permit.

Permits are usually required for the following:

• additions
  • bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms, etc.

• residential work
  • decks, sheds, garages, fences, fireplaces, pools, etc.
• renovations
  • garage conversions, kitchen expansions, etc.
• electrical systems
  • electrical permit
• plumbing systems
  • plumbing permit
• any and all commercial construction