Permits for construction or work on buildings - When do I need one?

Residential Construction:
By clicking on this title, you will see a complete listing of all the different types of residential permit applications the Building Inspections Division of the Community Development Department has available. The listing also includes schedules, forms, and informational sheets which may be helpful in the planning and construction process.

Commercial Construction: - By clicking on this title you will see a complete listing of the various permit applications which may be required for commercial construction.  A change of use may require permits as well.  For new commercial developments, a building permit application, along with building plans and a site plan, will need to be submitted to the department for review. The plans will be reviewed for zoning compliance and meeting the standards of development as set by the community. Some plans will be reviewed during the department's site plan review meetings which involves the collaboration of others such as the Engineering, Fire and Police Departments. By involving other departments in the process, the City gets a comprehensive view on how the development will impact the community. The City may require plans for the larger, more complex buildings to be reviewed by an outside professional code consulting firm at the owner's expense. Other permits may need to be obtained in addition to a building permit.

Please contact our office if you would like to have assistance with any of these permits.

Here are some of the typical-types of permits with a little more detailed explanation:

Building Permit:
Anyone who wishes to renovate, remodel or change the usage of his or her property will first need to submit a plan to be reviewed by the Planning & Zoning Department. Some items included with the application for the building permit are the legal description and parcel ID, existing and proposed usage, zoning, cost of improvement and square footage. A sketch plan will also have to be submitted showing the layout and dimensions of the structure. This is easily completed for small building (click here for information regarding sheds and other accessory structures) or remodeling projects including basement finish, deck construction, and room additions. Square footage and setback requirements from property lines are determined by zoning. For those converting residential property to commercial, remodeling or renovation will have to make all places of public accommodation accessible to the disabled.  Click here for the building permit application (which is also used for accessory structures) or here for a deck building permit application packet.

Swimming Pools:
Any swimming pool, above or below ground, or any hot tub or spa with 24 inches or more of water requires a building permit.  The purpose of this permit, required by the building code, is to ensure that these units are set-up and operated in a safe manner, protecting the health, safety and welfare of our residents. Also, pools are considered accessory structures and cannot be any closer than 3 feet to the side and/or rear property line.  Portable or inflatable pools pose the same serious risk of electrocution and drowning as permanent back yard pools, hot tubs and spas.  The City strictly enforces all electrical requirements and barrier requirements on new and existing pools.  We feel very strongly about our duty to ensure pools are safe for our residents, particularly when so often the victims of pool tragedies are small children.  Click here for a pool permit application packet.

Electrical Permit:
Business owners and residents must obtain an electrical permit prior to rewiring, significant remodeling, or renovation work. A solar installation without structural changes can also be applied for with an electrical permit. A plan will need to be submitted indicating items such as usage, location of outlets, and service size. Improper or inadequate wiring presents a serious threat to the health, safety and welfare of residents, customers and other property owners.  Click here for an electrical permit application that can be faxed in to our office.

Plumbing Permit:
A plumbing permit is needed for property owners who are renovating, remodeling or adding new plumbing to the structure. Plumbing inspection appointments need to be scheduled to allow the inspector 2 business days to conduct the inspection.  Click here for the plumbing permit application.

Demolition Permit:
This permit will need to be obtained before the razing of any structure. Neighboring property owners are required to be notified and a written release from all utility companies is needed before a permit can be approved. Inspections both before and after the demolition will need to be scheduled.  Click here for the demolition permit application packet.

Sign Permits - Temporary and Permanent:
A permit is required for all signage.  You may click on this link for Permanent Signage or on this link for Temporary Signage.  Both applications contain helpful information help you determine what signage is permitted for your particular circumstances.