Building Permits & Inspections
The Building Permits and Inspections Department will strive to assist you with your construction project in an efficient and accountable manner. They are responsible for permitting all construction and conducting inspections of all construction-related permits as well as issuance of Certificates of Occupancy, Fire Prevention, and Special Events.
The Building Permits and Inspections Department is responsible for:
- Conducting building construction inspections
- Issuing building permits
- Issuing certificate of occupancy permits
- Reviewing building plans
- Working directly with the Planning and Zoning Commission
To obtain a permit for both residential and commercial uses, simply download the forms below (if available) or give us a call and we will be happy to provide you with the necessary forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a building permit?
The Uniform Building Code requires that building permits be issued before construction begins. The Code's main purpose is "to provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property, and publice welfare by regulating and controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupance, location, and maintenance of all buildings and structures within this jurisdiction and certain equipment specifically regulated herein".
-1997 Uniform Building Code
Building permits are required for any number of different home improvements and construction projects. General permits are required for such projects as re-roofing, re-siding, same size window replacements, fence, sheds, doors, fireplaces, new/replacement of water softners, water heaters, furnaces, and central air conditioners. These permits only require that a simple application form be completed. The cost of a permit ranges from $37.50 to $40.00 per project. A permit can be issued the same day for the work. Larger projects must go through review. The fee is based on the value of the project.
A general permit to construct a fence requires some additional information. The application should include a plot plan, which describes the type of fence to be constructed, the location of the fence on the property, and the method that will be used to anchor the fence in place. Fences should be constructed one (1) foot from the property line.
A building permit form is required for projects including but not limited to:
- Masonary fireplace
- Commercial re-roof
- New construction
- Home alterations
- New additions
- Finish attics
- Commercial re-side
- Finish basement
- Porches
- Garages
- Decks
- Chimneys
- Demolition work
Other types of work requiring a permit:
- Mechanical
- Plumbing
Building permits can be picked up at the City Office. The type of project will determine what other documentation needs to be submitted wiht the application. Fees will also vary by the type of project, or construction being proposed.
Building permits are valid for just six (6) months from the date of issue.