What you need to know about building permits is they are required in almost every town, city, county and state for remodeling and new construction projects.  The permit is your official government “permission” to do the work.  It is a way for your building code officials to insure you are building or remodeling according to regulations and laws.  Though waiting on the building inspector can be a bit annoying in the middle of the job, these officials are trained to look for code compliance which is about your safety.

In some states you can obtain your own building permits and in other states only a licensed contractor can take out a permit.  In all states there are permits required for electrical, plumbing, anything to do with changing load bearing walls, roof and truss plans, foundations and septic or sewer systems.¹ 

The reason for the permits is simple.  It is to insure you build or remodel in a way that does not jeopardize your safety or the safety of the environment and other people.  For example, to get a truss permit you must take architectural plans to the permit department where engineers will insure the building is going to have adequate support.

Building permits are required for electrical and plumbing also.  The plans for the remodel or new construction will be reviewed and there might have to be changes made.  The electrical and plumbing plans are reviewed for code compliance.  During the job progress, you will have to have building inspectors visit and approve the work in progress for compliance with the design plans.² 

Sometimes it can be difficult to know when a permit is required.  There are extensive building codes anywhere you live.  You might need a permit in one state to add a new window, but not in another.  It can be difficult sometimes to differentiate between jobs too.  Moving an electrical outlet usually doesn’t require a permit.  Redoing your kitchen wiring which includes moving outlets probably would require a permit in most states.

The building code and permit requirements are one major reason why people often hire professional contractors.  The contractors know the rules and regulations and will obtain the permit as part of the cost of doing the job.  This can save you a lot of confusion, time and annoyance.  Contractors are licensed and when they take out a permit, they are claiming to be qualified, legal and competent.  This gives you an extra layer of financial protection in the event something were to go wrong.

If you are considering building a new home or starting a remodel job, you just need to be aware that building permit requirements are going to come into play.  This is for your own protection and your own safety.

Sources:

(1) http://www.ci.oakley.ca.us/UserFiles/File/Building_Permit_Guide.pdf

(2) http://www.fallschurchva.gov/Content/Government/Departments/PublicSafety/BldgInspect/BldgPermits.aspx?cnlid=2077