Building Permits: When are they required?

You have the vision. You know what you want. But getting that sparkling new kitchen or expansive master closet isn’t as easy as making a wish and snapping your fingers. From the beginning, your project is set up for numerous pitfalls and missteps, and nowhere is this more true than in the permitting process. Skip a permit in hopes of a smoother project and you could be faced with very real consequences. Why get a permit? The greatest risk to non-compliance is that of bodily harm to the occupant. There are other less dire consequences that might arise from failing to secure a required permit. Every real estate agent has a story about a home sale that was affected by improperly permitted work. If the home’s reported square footage does not match up with what’s recorded, it’s a red flag that can negate a home sale. You might be required to obtain a permit for work retroactively, which can be a costly endeavor involving demolition and repeating work steps. Fines, lawsuits and other legal troubles are all possible outcomes of completing work without the required permit.

The First Rule. It seems obvious, but if unsure, always check with your local jurisdiction. I can’t prioritize this one highly enough; even professionals can be surprised by the vagaries of local building departments. So when in doubt, always ask.

The Second Rule. Construction rules change. Even within a given jurisdiction, requirements can vary greatly over time, usually becoming more stringent and comprehensive every year. By checking with your local planning and building departments, you will have acted in the most responsible manner possible.

In Conclusion:  You need to determine the scope of your project with as much specificity as possible. It may be easy. A repainted bedroom with added crown molding would almost never require a permit. But if you find yourself considering work with uncertain permit requirements, consult with a professional or your local building jurisdiction.