Do You Need a Permit?
NEW construction permit requirements seem, well, obvious. But what about simple projects? If you're thinking about replacing your water heater or converting part of your garage into an office, ask yourself before you open your tool box: "Do I need permits?" Even small home improvements may require a building permit. Faulty installations can cause fires, flood damage and other hazards, and also force you to make costly repairs before you can sell your house. Permits and the inspections that come with them protect your family's safety and the value of your property by ensuring the work meets adopted building codes.
Types of Building and Trade Permits
Building permits are documents which are obtained through the local development center authorizing the start of construction or remodeling of a building. There are four types of permits which may be required:
Building Permit: New construction, additions, alterations, house moves, demolition, or repairs to either residential or non-residential structures.
Electrical Permit: New installations, additions, extension, alterations, changes, and fire and accident repairs of any electrical wiring and electrical equipment associated with a structure or project. Separate permits are required for wiring, fixtures, furnaces, and construction poles. For convenience, the wiring, fixtures, and furnaces may be combined on one permit if they are included on the original application. Construction poles will require a separate permit in every case.
Plumbing Permit: New installation, removal, alteration, repair, or replacement of any plumbing, gas, or drainage piping work, or any fixture or water heater or treating equipment in a building or premise. A separate permit is required for each building or structure and privies used during construction.
Mechanical Permit: New installations; alterations; repair; replacement; remodel; and/or removal of duct work, heating, venting, or air conditioning equipment (HVAC) for each separate building or structure involved in the project.
REMEMBER: You will need to obtain a building permit PRIOR to beginning any work on your project. This is when an individual who is planning to DIY should employ The Permit Lady to expedite the process of acquiring necessary permits!