Building Frequently Asked Questions

Work of a minor nature within a home can be done by the homeowner, however, if excessive violations are noted at the time of the inspection, a licensed professional may be required.

Timed inspections are reserved for footings, sewer laterals and occupancy inspections. All others can reserve a morning or afternoon inspection.

Either the resident in violation will cut the grass (needs to be less than eight inches) or the City will send out a contractor to cut the grass after a 10 day notice period (first violation), 5 day notice period (repeat viloation). Once the contractor has cut the grass, the City will post a lien on the property for the moving service.

A permit is required for projects previously completed. A disclaimer statement maybe provided on the property card to note that no inspections of the underlying walls occurred and that a permit was obtained after construction. The inspector will note any other changes to the dwelling from the previous inspection. Some changes may be required to meet current building codes.

Yes, permits are required for driveway installation and proximity of slabs or curb cuts at an intersection. A Miscellaneous Building Permit is used for driveway permits. No, permit is needed for patios or non-driveway related slabs. Consult with the Building Inspector if you are unsure.

Occupancy Permits are valid for 90 days and may be extended by contacting the Building Official. All other permits are valid for six months from the time of the last approved inspection. To extend a permit click here.

To obtain a copy of a Certificate of Occupancy for a residential or commercial property please fill out the Certificate of Occupancy Request Form.

You can submit your report or survey by clicking here.

Miscellaneous permits take approximately five – seven business days to complete. New construction (master) house permits take seven – 10 business days and new construction (same as) house permits take five – seven business days. Building permits are valid for six months from the date of the last inspection.

Unpermitted work happens for many reasons. You may be hesitant about the requirements, the additional paperwork, the home assessments, etc. However, when it comes time to buy or sell the home, this information should be disclosed. You can always call the building division to ask if a permit was obtained and approved for the work completed.

If you are the home buyer, it is a good idea to find out if the proper permits were obtained and, most importantly, that the inspections were approved for the work completed. There will be an approval sticker or signed off permit card for the final inspection if the permit work is approved. As the home seller, don’t hesitate to apply for permits for work that was completed without the proper documentation.

The Building Division will work with the homeowner on an individual basis to get the paperwork and inspections completed so we can make sure that the work is safe and code compliant. You can start the process by filling out the permit application online here:  
Miscellaneous Permit Application.

Please note on the application or the permit drawings that the work has already been completed without a permit. Feel free to call the Building Division with any questions, at (636) 327-5101.