Building Services

Most major projects will require permits of some kind (building permits and/or planning permits). This is necessary to ensure that all buildings meet minimum standards which protect its occupants and neighbors in everyday living and in the case of emerge ncies or natural disasters.

Some minor projects are allowed without obtaining building permits. However, depending upon the project, other permits (planning permits, special activities permits, etc.) may be required. In either case, the construction of such projects should be in c onformance with all applicable codes.

Some of the projects which do not require a building permit are:

1. Retaining walls or planter boxes which are no more than 4' in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) and do not support another structure, fence, or take on additional loads.
   
   
2. Wood or chain link fences not greater than 6' high (or not greater than 3' high if masonry).
   
   
3. Decks and platforms less than thirty inches above grade and not within six feet of any other building or structure which requires (or required) a building permit for its construction.
   
   
4. Exterior stairs that are no greater than 30" above grade, and are not a part of an exiting system. NOTE: Some exceptions may apply. See a Permit Technician at the Permit Center.
   
   
5. Prefabricated pools accessory to a single family dwelling and have a maximum capacity of 5,000 gallons.
   
   
6. Single story detached buildings which do not exceed 12 feet in height used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, etc., as long as the projected roof area does not exceed 120 square feet and does not have plumbing or electricity.

Minor improvements typically not needing a permit:

• interior or exterior painting,
• installing draperies or blinds,
• installing carpeting or resilient floor covering,
• building store fixtures (display cases),
• building uncovered concrete patios, or
• replacing electrical outlets and light switches.