As a homeowner or contractor, there may be times when you are uncertain whether it is necessary to secure a building permit. The following guidelines should be used:
Work Requiring a Permit: (The following list is not meant to be exclusive, if you are in doubt as to whether the work you are considering needs a permit, please call the Building Inspector.)
- New homes, additions, garages
- Storage sheds over 200 square feet
- Interior renovations, involving the cutting away of any wall or structural member.
- Decks and ramps.
- Roofing (when re-roofing more than 25% of existing roof).
- Siding (when re-siding more than 25% of existing house).
- Window or exterior door replacement.
- The installation of swimming pools, hot tubs, or spas.
- Fences over 7 feet high.
- Retaining walls over 4 feet high.
- Wood stoves, fireplace inserts, fireplaces, or chimneys, outdoor wood furnaces.
- Demolition of any existing structure.
- Signs-new or alteration of existing signs.
- Change of use (e.g., from storage to living space.)
A permit is not necessary for ordinary repairs: "Any maintenance which does not affect the structure, egress, fire protection systems, fire ratings, energy conservation provisions, plumbing, sanitary, gas, electrical or other utilities."