Permit Exemptions

SINGLE FAMILY BUILDING PERMIT EXEMPTIONS

Building permits safeguard public health, safety, and general welfare through the enforcement of various building and zoning codes. Consequently, a permit is almost always needed for any type of building, structure, structural remodel/repair, or grading project.

Per state law, building permits are required for all new structures or renovations of existing structures that meet or exceed $1,000 in value, although some home repairs and uses are exempt from this requirement. The improvements listed in the following table are typical examples of single-family residential projects that do not require a building permit. A permit is required, regardless of the dollar value of the improvement, when there are applicable building code requirements for all non-residential uses. Also, depending on the project location, a floodplain permit may still be required. Please contact us if you have any questions. 

  1. Building
  2. Electrical
  3. Gas
  4. Mechanical
  5. Plumbing
  6. Other
  • Re-roofing (when no structural changes are proposed or any reinforcement is required to add heavier roofing materials), re-siding or replacement of exterior trim.
  • Replacing or adding gutters or downspouts.
  • Replacing or adding soffit, gable, or roof ventilation.
  • Replacing existing windows or doors with no structural changes.
  • Replacing cabinets or countertops.
  • Painting, interior or exterior, and wallpapering.
  • Decks less than 30-inches in height above the lowest grade within 5 feet of deck edge.
  • Replacing existing appliances or internal light fixtures.
  • One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided that the floor area is not greater than 200 square feet and there are no utilities
  • Replacing like for like or repairing an existing furnace, air-conditioner, cooler, heat pump, or heater.
  • General landscaping including lawn sprinkler systems, subject to water conservation requirements, and retaining walls up to 4 feet in height.
  • Water Tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2:1.
  • Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a single-family dwelling.
  • Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54-inches from the exterior wall.