Your name saw this post on The ActiveRain Real Estate Network and thought it might be of interest to you. Please see the link below to review the post.

Building Permits (New Construction)
What is a building permit?   A building permit is a permit required for new construction or renovations to existing structures. Local municipalities issue building permits for work that could affect the public's health or safety, if improperly performed.  
 How is a building permit obtained?   In order to obtain a building permit, certain information must be given to the local building official. Intermediate and final inspections may need to be performed by their inspectors to verify that the work was performed in accordance with applicable building codes.  
A building permit may be obtained by the owner or a licensed contractor after filling out a few forms and paying a small fee. Plans and specifications prepared by an architect or professional engineer describing new work or alterations are required for large projects where structural elements are involved, or when major electrical, air conditioning or plumbing systems are altered. Minor alterations may require a permit, but usually do not require plans and specifications.
These common alterations and improvements usually require a building permit:
structural additions; installation of a new roof; adding or blocking off a door or window; adding or relocating electrical outlets; adding or relocating plumbing fixtures, such as showers, ... more

__________________________________________________
Are you on The Rain? Grow Your Network!