Do I need a Building Permit?

When starting a new construction project, one of the first steps will be to figure out if permits are required.

Whether or not you need a permit will depend on where you live, since permit requirements are different

for each city. In order to get a definitive answer, you should call your local building official, who will usually

be in the city office. Rural residents should start by going to their township clerk and if needed, they will

be referred to the right person.

If your construction project is to build a new home, or to make renovations to your current home, you are

more than likely going to need to obtain a permit. The cost of a permit does vary, depending on where

you live and what the scope of your construction project is.

Although the permit requirements do vary by city, there are general examples of construction projects that

are most likely going to require a permit. Permits are usually needed for:

· Any addition onto an existing building or structure

· Decks

· Demolition of an existing structure

· Electrical work

· Fences that are taller than 6 feet

· Finishing off a basement

· Finishing off a roughed-in bathroom

· Installation of a bedroom egress exit window

· Installation of a fireplace

· Moving a building in or out

· New commercial or industrial construction

· New garage construction

· New home construction

· Plumbing work (requires a separate permit)

· Retaining walls that are taller than 4 foot

· Re-windowing if the window frame size is changing

· Sheds 120 square feet or larger (will require a shed permit)

· Signs-both commercial and industrial

· Some larger excavation projects

· Swimming pools that contain over 5,000 gallons

It may seem overwhelming to figure out if you need a permit and which type of permit you need, which is

why there are companies who will help you through the permit and license processes.

For more information please visit our website: www.scoutservices.com