Building Permits: When and How
The popularity of the reality based TV show ‘Trading Spaces' spawned an abundance of reality based home improvement shows. These shows depict the fun and rewarding work associated with re-crafting houses, either for personal living satisfaction or for investment ‘flips'. What the shows don't show however, are the hours spent obtaining the required permitting for the job.
The Leon County Growth Management Division provides extensive literature for permitting both online (http://www.talgov.com/growth/resperinfo.cfm) and at their offices (408 N. Adams St.). They do a great job of helping determine whether a permit is needed, and once decided, how to proceed through the process. Below is a basic list of when to pull and when not, but by no means is it all inclusive.
You'll need a building permit to: |
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Along with your building permit, you'll need a licensed electrician to pull the electrical permit if you want to install, relocate, alter or repair electrical wiring. If you decide to install, relocate, alter or repair water and sewer lines or even replace a dishwasher or hot water heater, you'll need a plumbing permit. Roofs with an estimated cost of labor and materials greater than $300 will require a roofing permit. Air conditioners (excluding window units) and heating units require mechanical permits, etc. The list goes on and on, but if you even think you should get a permit, you most likely are required to. The best bet always is to contact Growth Management. A licensed general contractor can also be a great source for both information and pulling permits. Just use caution when selecting one as there are all walks of life with general contractors licenses. Do some research and ask knowledgeable friends for a referral.
Once you have your permit, a building inspector will likely check up on the progress to ensure you're complying with code. It is good to get on his good side as he can make life very difficult through fines and in severe cases, shutting down the entire operation. If you do what you're supposed to do, all will be fine.
There are some things you can do without pulling a permit. Typically, if you don't alter anything structurally, you don't need a permit.
In most cases, you don't need a permit when you: |
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It may seem like a hassle to apply for a building permit, but the purpose of the permit is to ensure you are in compliance with local codes. As long as you have your permit, you will have trained professionals overseeing your project, ensuring a structurally sound home. Without the permit, you could face significant fines and non-completion of the project, and even worse, harm to yourself or your family. When in doubt, pull the permit.
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