Permits: What Needs a Permit & Who can Help YOU WITH PERMITS?
PERMITS — PART 2C & 2D in AJO’s REBUILDING STRONGER SMARTER SERIES
Part 2C: WHAT WORK REQUIRES A PERMIT?
The process of permitting can be confusing, even for professionals!
In this series of "Rebuilding Stronger Smarter" we walk you through What requires a permit and Who can help you get the permits you need.
When in doubt, ask a professional. Architects, engineers, and contractors deal with permits every day, and are more than happy to help you out.
Keep reading for more on how these professional help you with the permits you need.
WHAT WORK REQUIRES A PERMIT?
It depends…
Some work ALWAYS requires a building permit.
Certain types of building permits are required across jurisdictions.
Typically, these are when you're changing the structure of the building, and/or creating new buildings. For example:
New Construction
Renovations
Additions
SITE ELEMENTS
A lot of permitting depends on the jurisdiction. The following types of site work typically require a permit, but you should confirm with your local jurisdiction:
1. Driveways
2. Fence or Landscape Walls
3. Pools
4. Screen Enclosures
5. Sewer and Utilities
EXTERIOR ELEMENTS
The following types of exterior work typically require a permit. If you don’t see your project, keep in mind this is not a complete list. You should confirm with your local jurisdiction before starting your work:
1. Windows and Doors
2. Awnings and Canopies
3. Decks (and Balconies)
4. Shutters
5. Roofs and Roofing
INTERIOR ELEMENTS
The following types of interior work typically require a permit. This list is not exhaustive, so be sure to confirm with your local jurisdiction:
1. Drywall replacement (the exact amount varies by jurisdiction)
2. Air Conditioning (new or replacement)
3. Electrical (adding switches, outlets, modifying circuits, service, etc.)
4. Plumbing (relocating or adding toilets, sinks, baths, showers, etc.)
THINGS THAT DON’T (USUALLY) REQUIRE A PERMIT
There are some things that typically don't require a permit. In most jurisdictions, you can usually do the following indoor and outdoor project without permits:
1. Replacing floor finishes
2. Replacing wallpaper or other wall-coverings (interior)
3. Painting (inside or outside)
4. Landscaping (for single-family homes, NOT including irrigation!)
5. Minor repairs to various elements of the building or property. What you consider minor repair may actually require a permit - be sure to check with your local office.
Since this is not exhaustive, consult your jurisdiction before starting any work!
Remember that architects work with permits every day and are happy to help you get started with your project!.
PART 2D: WHO CAN HELP YOU WITH PERMITS?
Finishing up Series 2 of "Rebuilding Stronger Smarter," let's look at the professionals who you can work with to help in your permitting process.
Architects, engineers, contractors, and the city are all critical in the permit and construction process.
Let’s look at each of these and how and why they're important in your building journey!
ARCHITECTS
Architects are often a first step in beginning your journey toward a major renovation or new building.
Whether you have an empty lot or an existing building for major renovation, architects are well-versed in designing and obtaining the necessary building permits.
Architects are trained in designing safe, healthy buildings that fit your needs, and are well-versed to navigate the permit process, as well as coordinating with the Contractor during construction.
ENGINEERS & OTHER SPECIALISTS
While architects will almost always work with a handful of engineers to design buildings, you may also find yourself in need of other specialists depending on your circumstances.
Architects can help guide you through these decisions.
CONTRACTORS
Whether you have major renovations and repairs on an existing home or new construction, contractors are the people most directly involved in the actual construction of your project.
If you've got a complex building (like a new house or a large renovation), you'll want to get in touch with a General Contractor. Otherwise, specific contractors for various trades will be able to help you out with repairs and replacements.
YOUR CITY, COUNTY, ETC.
Your local jurisdiction is heavily involved in the permit process,
Zoning and Building Departments review the building plans for compliance with building codes. When your project is complete, the Building Department is tasked with final review and issuing the Certificate of Occupancy.
INSPECTORS
Inspectors from your local jurisdiction will periodically visit the job site during construction to verify that the work is being done safely, that it matches the drawings your architect provided, and that it meets all local codes.
These inspections are crucial to ensuring that the building you inhabit will be safe and sound for years to come.
The process of permitting can be confusing. When in doubt, contact a professional. Architects, engineers, and contractors deal with permits every day, and are more than happy to help you out.
In Part 3 of this Series we focus on the smarter aspects of architecture and construction focusing on better, resilient design.