Permit Information

When is a permit needed?

Any time one of these activities occurs a permit must be obtained:
1) construct or alter a structure
2) construct an addition to an existing structure (this includes decks)
3) demolish or move a structure
4) make a change in occupancy of a structure
5) install or alter any equipment which is regulated by the building code

Examples include:
a) heating equipment
b) air conditioning
c) plumbing
d) electrical service
6) Move a lot line, which affects an existing structure

ORDINARY REPAIRS do not require a permit. Some examples of such would be new gutters, painting, replacement of windows where the existing opening in the structure isn't altered.

NOT included in ordinary repairs are:
1) cutting away of any wall, partition, or potion thereof
2) the removal, replacement, re-inforcement or cutting of any structural beam or loadbearing support
3) the removal or change of any required means of egress
4) the rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the means of egress
5) addition to, alteration of, or replacement or relocation of any water supply, sewer, drainage, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping
6) addition to, alteration of, or replacement or relocation of any electrical
wiring
7) addition to, alteration of, or replacement or relocation of any mechanical equipment
8) Concrete work such as sidewalks, driveways and patio’s.

The simple acid test to apply to a question about whether or not work requires a permit is this:
Does common sense dictate that the proposed work could affect the public health, safety, and welfare by compromising structural strength, means of egress, sanitary equipment, light and ventilation, and fire safety of the building?

The permit process is designed to insure that the erection, repair, removal,
demolition, or change of occupancy of a building be accomplished in compliance with the building code.