Do I need a Permit?
Do I need a permit?Development permits are required for all alteration, construction or reconstruction of a building or structure. In the case of new construction - say you would like to build a new home or add a room or porch onto your existing home - you will be required to obtain a building permit. Fencing, pool installation, replacing a roof or redesigning driveway connections are all activities that require a permit. The building permit process is designed to provide oversight for a wide range of construction tasks and land development activities. This oversight is necessary to ensure safety, provide an adequate level of public services, protect our natural habitat and to maintain the health and welfare of our community. When planning a new project, making major repairs to an existing structure or major alterations to the landscape, it is a good idea to give us a call to see if a permit is required.
So I need a permit...what's next and how long will it take?
Obtaining a permit starts with an application. We have provided our permit applications and supporting forms on-line for your convenience. You can also obtain an application by visiting our Building counter during normal business hours.
All permit applications require some level of review. The length of the review and approval process varies, depending on the scale of the project.
General electrical, plumbing, fence, gas, air conditioning, above ground pool and roof projects, on an existing structure or development, can usually be processed at the Building counter while you wait.
Minor lot splits, residential and commercial construction, or structural modifications to existing buildings, can typically be processed within 10 working days.
Major land development activities, such as new residential subdivisions and large commercial complexes, will trigger our site plan review process. This process is designed to take a closer look at the impacts of a large development on the community and will require a public hearing for final approval.