ELECTRICAL:
You do need a permit to install or alter any permanent wiring or electric device, convert a fuse box to a circuit breaker, put in an outlet or light fixture, or install or alter any low-voltage systems. Generally speaking, you will not need a permit for maintenance or repair work.
You might need to get an inspection on your electrical work in order to get the permit. “Most electrical permits require three inspections: rough-in, service, and final. Call for a rough-in inspection when all of the new circuits are wired, grounding wires are in, the raceways and boxes are installed, and any necessary nail plates are put on. Do not cover any work with insulation, receptacles, or wall switches until the inspector has approved it.” Again, check with your city permit office to insure you have all the information before beginning any project.
PLUMBING:
Permits are required for replacing water heaters, underground piping; in order to alter piping inside a wall, ceiling, or installing new piping. You’ll need a permit for any work if the piping exceeds five feet and that includes emergency repair work. If you are remodeling or adding on to your house, and adding new plumbing or relocating existing plumbing you will need a permit.
Ordinary and minor repairs on accessible fixtures, parts, and appliances do not require permits. This includes drainage.
MECHANICAL:
This might sound odd, and perhaps a bit too vague, which is understandable. Mechanical work is “work on one- or two-family dwellings includes work on heating, cooling, or ventilation systems, including bath vents and woodstoves. Installation, alteration, or repair of gas piping between the meter and an appliance or other equipment, including all liquefied petroleum gas piping, is also considered mechanical work.”
Installing a woodstove, fireplace, pellet stove, or other related venting (including kitchen vents, bathroom vents, or dryer exhausts) will require a permit. As will installing or altering gas piping between the meter and appliance.
STRUCTURAL:
You will need a permit to add on a room, demolish a room or structure on your property that is more than 200 square feet, build a stairway, remove or move a wall, build a new wall, and building a fence that is higher than 6 feet tall.
You can paint, install insulation, install storm windows, put up shelving or cabinets, replace wall coverings (such as wallboard), and pave a walkway until your heart’s content without getting a permit.
I cannot stress enough the importance of checking with your local city permit office before going forward with repairs. If you build, install, repair without getting a required permit you will be fined, you will have to redo the work with a permit, and your insurance will not cover the repairs. These rules are for your safety and the safety of others, so do everyone a favor and check first.
home-inspection
