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1. When is a building permit required?

For any new construction, additions, decks, deck replacement/repairs, screen porches, sunrooms, structural alterations, new or replacement gas/mechanical units, water heaters, swimming pools, and/or most accessory structures. Unless structural modifications are needed, building permits are not typically required for cosmetic work such as re-roofing, replacing siding, painting, flooring, etc.

2. Why are building permits required?

Building permits are required for a number of reasons. Approved permits and the accompanying building inspections help ensure that what you are proposing complies with current code requirements. This, in turn, helps provide for a safe structure and helps protect your investment. The failure to obtain building permits may also lead to an un-insurable structure or a structure that may need serious modifications or even removal in the future due to a lack of compliance with applicable codes.

3. Do fences on a residential lot require a permit?

Fences up to a maximum of 7 feet in height do not require a building permit. However, the property owner is responsible for making sure the fence is on their property and not within the public right of way and/or any pedestrian easement. Also, fences are not permitted where they would impede the free flow of stormwater. Fences may also be removed without being re-installed if they are placed within utility, drainage, and/or construction easements. The best advice with regards to fence placement is to have a survey conducted so that the property boundaries and easements are known and future issues do not arise.