How to Get A Building Permit for Homeowners
Getting a permit can seem overwhelming - especially for a homeowner who is looking to do some projects on their home and has never gone through the process before.
But not to worry! You can definitely do this.
I will dive into some of the particulars here in a sec but from my experience as a building inspector and as a homeowner, the simplest and easiest way to get the permit process started is to go down the building department and meet with a permit technican. It will save tons of time trying to figure out what information they are looking for and will get the project started on the right foot.
Almost any typical home project that a homeowner may decide to take on from changing out windows and installing a new roof or deck, to additions, garages, and shops can be done with a pad of paper and a pencil. What I mean is that you do not need to hire an architect or get an engineer involved in your project to get a permit. Great news if you're on a budget! Any drawings or details needed can be done by you and simply submitted for review. Sometimes your local building department will even have basic details that you can attach to your drawings and use as part of your application.
The permit process will include an application of some sort and then - depending on the project - your local building department may ask for a site plan showing where the structure will sit on your property and/or some drawings of how the structure will look and be constructed.
Trade permits like plumbing and electrical may only require the submission of fixture quantities and types - details such as how many toilets or electrical circuits you plan to install.
A very helpful building department will help you through design of your structural elements like your footings, floors, beams, roof, etc. They can use the International Residentail code to size those elements and mark up your plans accordingly.
The city that I work for likes to see everything submitted online, which could be the case where you live as well, but there should still be someone down at your building department that can answer your questions, walk you through the application process and get you confidently on your way!
Below are a couple examples of what a permit application might look like and a sample template to draw a site plan, in case it's helpful.
If all else fails and you need assistance, reach out and schedule a consulation with me. I'd be happy to help you work through your questions, issues, or concerns.
Happy building!
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