Show All Answers

1. When is a permit required?

Permits are required for any new construction, as well as alterations and additions to existing buildings, including structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, manufactured housing, boiler and elevator work. Some examples of when a permit is required are as follows:

• New buildings including storage buildings, boat houses, greenhouses, screen enclosures, and gazebos
• Masonry fence walls
• Re-roofing
• Swimming pools (in-ground or above-ground), spas, and hot tubs
• Temporary buildings (construction, etc.)
• Demolition
• Room additions
• Patios and decks
• Driveways and parking pads
• Interior alterations and renovations
• Structural repairs
• New electrical, plumbing, gas, and air-conditioning systems
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Signs
• Awnings
• Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves
• Fire suppression hood system

This is not a complete list. If you are uncertain whether a building permit is required, please contact the Building Department.

2. When is a permit not required?

Approvals shall not be required for the following. Exemption from the requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction;

• House alarm systems, burglar systems
• One-story detached accessory structures provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 square meters) 
• Fences 6 feet high and under
• Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge
• Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2:1
• Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below
• Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work
• Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep
• Swings and other playground equipment accessories to a one-, two- or three-family dwelling
• Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that does not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and does not require additional support

If you are uncertain whether a building permit is required, please contact the Building Department.

3. Do I need a permit to construct a pool? If so, what are the requirements?

Yes, you do need a permit to construct a pool. This may also include blow-up pools that are over 24 inches deep. To review the requirements, follow this link.

4. Do I need a permit to construct a deck? If so, what are the requirements?

Yes, you do need a permit to construct a deck. To review the requirements, follow this link.

5. Who answers my floodplain questions?

Contact the Floodplain Manager at the Building Department or see the Floodplain Management page.

6. What inspections will I need?

When you receive your zoning permit, you will need to provide a copy to the Building and Health Departments. The Building Department will assist the zoning inspector in determining compliance with set back requirements and building heights.

7. Do I need a permit for a barn used for agricultural purposes?

The determination of agricultural exemption can only be made by the Zoning Official. If an agricultural exemption is granted, no building permit will be required.