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1. How do I know if I need a building permit?

Please check with the building department before starting any project to determine if permits are required, the following list is not a complete comprehensive list. Other types of projects may also require permits.

A building permit is required to:

- Erect, enlarge, remove, improve, or convert buildings or structures, such as an attached/detached garages, carports, breezeways, storage sheds, and porches

- Convert the use of a building or part of a building

- Install, relocate or remove interior partitions or walls

- Repair fire damage

- Demolish any building, including a garage

- Install a masonry chimney, metal smokestack or wood stove

- Install in ground or above ground swimming pool

- Install tennis courts

- Install antennae (dish and transmitting)

- Install exterior impervious surfaces such as driveways, patios, sidewalks, retaining walls

- Replace roof

- Install fences

- Install HVACs

- Install generators

- Install new windows or doors

2. How do I know if I need an Electrical Certificate?

For most electrical work, such as working with the fixed wiring system, you will need to obtain a compliance certificate from a private electrical inspection service.

An Electrical Certificate is not required for:
- Replacement of devices including fuses, lamps, wall outlets and similar devices that do not disturb the fixed wiring system.
- Electrical work that involve currents under 25 volts (for example, doorbell circuits).

For details, visit the Electrical Certificates page.

3. How do I know if I need a plumbing permit?

A plumbing permit is required to install:

- Plumbing fixtures such as sinks, bathtubs, showers, water closets, water heaters, garbage disposals

- Water lines, sanitary drainage lines or vent lines

- Furnaces

- Hot water heaters

A plumbing permit is not required to:

- Repair existing plumbing fixtures (as long as re-piping is not required)

For details, visit the

Plumbing Permits page.