Building plans may be submitted at any time during the development review process. However, the City will not issue a building permit until a Development Permit is acquired.

Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to protect us by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and therefore ensuring the public health, safety, and welfare. The building permit process helps us understand our local laws and ordinances. Before any construction or remodeling work begins, you MUST apply for a permit. Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to inspect construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used.

A. The building permit application & review process

Upon receipt of the building permit application, the Building Permit Review Board reviews the permit. The review process is as follows:

1. Visit or Call your Local Code Official-

The Code Official will ask, “What are you planning to do?” and “Where are you planning to do it?” Then, the Code Official will explain the requirements (codes/ordinances) regarding your project. An application for a building permit will be given to you at this time. This initial contact will provide the resources and information you will need to make your project a success and avoid potential problems, which could cost you time and money.

2. Submit Application-

The permit application requires information about the construction project. You’ll be asked to document “who” will perform the work, “what” work will be done, “where” the work will be done, “when” the work will be done and “how” the work will be done. Sketches, drawings, plans, or other documentation of the proposed work will have to be submitted for review.

3. Wait During Review Process-

The majority of permit applications are processed with little delay. The Code Official will determine if your project is in compliance with the construction codes, with the zoning ordinance and with other municipal or state ordinances and statutes.

4. Receive Results of Review Process-

If compliance with the code, zoning ordinances and other applicable regulations is determined, the application is approved and a permit issued. If compliance is not determined, your application as submitted will be denied. If you are refused a building permit you can correct the code violations or appeal the decision.

5. Receive Permit-

The building permit is the document granting legal permission to start construction. You MUST proceed as approved in the review process. A fee will be collected at this time. The permit fee helps defray the cost of the Code Official’s time spent in the application process, the review process, and on-site inspection process. The fee also gives you access to the Code Official’s knowledge and experience when and if you have any questions about your construction project. An additional fee for services, such as water connection and surveys, may be required. Inspections required for your project will be indicated on the permit. Most building departments require you to post the building permit in a window or other prominent place at the construction site, keep a copy of the building plans at the site, and bring any proposed changes to the attention of the code Official immediately. Changes will require a review and approval in the same manner as the original application.

For more information, see the City brochure “ BUILDING PERMITS, Why and How?"