When Is a Permit Required?

What Work Requires a Building Permit?

  • Any building, plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work requires a permit. This also includes interior remodeling, improvements, conversion, demolition, and change of occupancy
  • The removal or adding of interior walls (bearing and non-bearing) requires plan submittals and a building permit
  • For electrical permits, contact the State Department of Labor and Industries, 764-6900.
  • Fences more than 7 feet high require a building permit and submittal of plans.
  • Fences 7 feet or less in height require a fence permit (PDF) and site plan.
  • Fences on commercial property will also be reviewed by the Fire Dept.

Exemptions From Building Permits

The following do not require a building permit:

  • For residential uses, 1-story detached accessory storage structures, such as tool sheds or playhouses, less than 200 square feet.
  • For commercial and industrial uses, 1-story detached accessory storage structures less than 120 square feet
  • Sidewalks and driveways
  • Finish work, such as painting, carpeting, cabinets, and counter tops
  • Swing sets and playground equipment
  • Residential decks if all of the following are true:
    • Deck is not attached to a structure
    • Deck is less than 200 square feet
    • Deck is less than 30 inches above grade
    • Deck does not have a roof covering
  • Reroofing a single family dwelling or private garage, if less than 25% of the existing roof sheathing is being replaced
  • Replacing siding over existing siding or exterior sheathing
  • Portable heating and cooling units
  • Clearing stoppages or repairing leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures, provided the repair does not involve the replacement of pipes, valves, or fixtures