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Generally speaking, a building permit is required when any structural change or major alteration is made to a building or when any new construction is undertaken. Normal maintenance does not require a permit in most cases. Separate permits for plumbing, electrical and mechanical work are also required when applicable.
Some examples of work that generally does not require permits are; tuck pointing, plaster repair, painting, all paneling, and awnings that do not project over property lines.
Some examples of work that does require a permit: new structures of any description, including buildings, garages, carports, storage sheds, gutters, downspouts, patios, porches, decks, retaining walls, room additions and extensions or enlargements of existing rooms. Any work involving structural changes or extensive rehabilitation of a building. Siding that covers the building requires a permit and any installation of pre-cast stone. Roof replacement requires a building permit when the roof sheathing is replaced.
An application for a permit is made at 803 Joliet Road, in the Community Development Department on the 1st floor of the Municipal Complex. The homeowner or the contractor can make the application. It is, however, the homeowner’s responsibility to see that a permit is secured and posted on the job site.
These plans are necessary to enable our Plan Examination to determine if the proposed structure or changes will meet all the safety requirements of the Code. In some instances it will be necessary to have the plans prepared by a licensed architect or engineer. The drawings should be in sufficient detail to show the dimensions of the project, kind and size of materials used, location of the property lines, and elevations.
An information packet covering all information and requirements needed in order to obtain a building permit is available in the Building Department.
A building permit is good for 180 days after it is issued. In addition, a 180 day extension may be granted by the Building Official. In most cases, a permit will not be expired unless the applicant has failed to call for an inspection and show progress on the project for a 360 day period. Once a permit is expired, you may be required to begin the permit process from the beginning and pay all of the applicable fees again, so it is wise to avoid permit expiration.
