When is a building permit actually required?

A building permit is necessary whenever the scope of work involves construction, alteration, enlargement or demolition of a structure. As a general rule, whenever the proposed work affects: structural features (either adding or removing), alterations to the layout of rooms or spaces, change of building use, or alteration to building elements which are regulated by the Code, a permit is required. Renovations that are primarily cosmetic in nature such as painting, flooring, paneling/trim work, etc., do not require a permit. Items that can be considered a repair, such as replacing loose siding, guardrails, balusters, etc., do not require a permit. In all cases we highly recommend that individuals call us when planning to undertake a project that we may provide a determination as to whether a building permit is necessary