Building Permits / Inspections

The Uniform Building Code states that "no building or structure regulated by the code shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished" without a building permit. Building Inspectors provide information and requirements regarding the City's Building Code, issuing permits, reviewing plans and conducting inspections for compliance with City Code.

When is a building permit required?

The projects that require building permits are as follows:

• New construction: new homes, garages, commercial industrial, any additions to existing buildings
• Sheds 120 square feet or longer (including overhang)
• Fences higher than 6' or Retaining walls higher than 4'
• Re-siding, re-roofing, window replacements
• Fireplaces
• Demolition of an existing structure or larger excavation projects
• Decks
• Finishing off a roughed-in bathroom or basement
• Installation of a bedroom egress/exit window
• Swimming pools over 5,000 gallons
• Electrical work requires a permit from the State Board of Electricity.
• Plumbing work such as installing new service lines from the street or installing additional piping in the home

Building Permit Application Requirements

1. All building permit applications must be accompanied by the following documents, unless exempted by the Building Inspector:
   • Two (2) sets of building plans and specifications showing all easements and elevations (in relation to street grade).
   • Two (2) copies of a certified land survey.
   • Two (2) copies of a plot plan indicating property lines, building setbacks (from right-of-way) and location of all utility lines.
2. The City requires a one thousand dollar ($1,000) street damage deposit for the construction of all new homes, commercial and accessory buildings, and all major construction projects which involve vehicles carrying heavy loads. Following receipt of Certificate of Occupancy, the street surface is inspected and if no problem has appeared, the deposit will be refunded. It is the applicant’s responsibility to request return of the street deposit.
3. City utility information is available for review by the public during regular office hours at City Hall. If further information is required, the City Engineer must be contacted at the inquirer’s expense. The City accepts no liability for locations of any service lines or locations of main lines not shown on City utility maps. 
4. Applicants are responsible for pick up and payment of building permits. Permits will not be issued until payment is made in full, including all deposit(s) (if any).
5. Inspections may be made by contacting the Building Inspector a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours in advance. The site address, inspection record, and approved plans must be posted on site or no inspection will be performed and a re-inspection fee may be charged. 
6. Any work which begins prior to issuance of a building permit shall be subject to a fine.
7. A final inspection is required. When a final inspection is completed, the Building Inspector will issue a certificate of occupancy (if applicable).

To schedule an inspection contact Metro West - 763-479-1720.