A good rule of thumb:
Anything that requires an inspection must be permitted. There is very little that does not require a permit. Such as interior painting, baseboards ,casings,replacing damaged wood rot, replacing existing plumbing fixture are just a few examples of what may be done without a permit. All other work must be inspected and therefore requires a permit. When in doubt contact your local building department and ask them if the work that you need to complete requires a permit.
I hope this helps!
Bpm Builders
Structural, Framing, Wiring and Plumbing Require Permits. Although in California error on the side of caution.
- John
$500 and over. Anything that requires an inspection must be permitted
Your best resource is your local municipality, (I.E. Building & Safety Department).
there you will hand a list of F.A.Q. and most cities will have a list of items that require permits.
Also, most cities have website that you can go and research this information without have to go to there offices.
Cheers.
In MD if you are constructing, demolishing, adding, installing, altering any of the following you may need a permit:
- Accessory Structure.
- Addition.
- Deck.
- Driveway (apron only).
- Electrical Work.
- Exterior Work on Historic Property.
- Fence.
- Garage.
- Hot tub.
- HVAC/Heating (replacing).
- Interior Alteration.
- Land Disturbance >5,000 sq. ft.
- Plumbing- contact WSSC.
- Retaining Wall.
- Septic System.
- Shed.
- Signs.
- Swimming Pool.
- Water Well.
Permits Required…
As a general rule, anything that involves safety, structure, or impacts neighbors, municipalities.
As a rule you should contact your local permitting and or liscencsing office to ask if the work you are doing requires a permit. states citys and counties all have different requirements, but there are a few that are for certain, roofing, plumbing, hvac, and electrical. Also if you are considered a multi family dwelling even minor things may require permits
From the City of Chicago website:
The building permit process is designed to ensure buildings com-
ply with minimum standards of safety established by the Chicago
Building Code for the protection of building occupants. With a
building permit, you or your contractors will get advice from re-
viewers and inspectors to ensure these standards are met in your
project.
It is best to check with the local municipality to see what work requires a permit. A simple phone call to the Building Department can save a lot of time, money and hassles down the road.