Help! Do You Need a Building Permit?

HELP! DO I NEED A BUILDING PERMIT?

A building permit requires that a contractor use safe methods and materials. Inspections assure you the contractor does. The question of when a permit is needed is baffling for most everyone.

Let’s start with new construction. New construction always requires a building permit, whether you’re putting up a building or a major part of a building like a new addition. This permit can cover everything from the footings below the foundation to the roofing materials overhead.

Here’s a list of items that typically require a permit. If you are having work done and it’s not on the list, contact the City to be sure you are in compliance. Failure to obtain a permit for work that requires a permit will result in a fine and sometimes require that the work be torn out or the building removed.

A permit is required for:

• Demolitions

• Room additions

• Garages

• Enclosures or covers of porch or patio

• All detached accessory structures

• Fences

• Retaining walls

• Roof replacement

• Signs

• Driveways & driveway replacements

• Plumbing, electrical & mechanical work

• Wall removal or relocation due to structural requirements

• Window or exterior doors

This is not an all-inclusive list, but intended to provide guidance on when a building permit is needed.

Once you know you need a building permit, actually getting one may seem like a hassle. But it will be worth it in the end and we are here to help every step of the way. The Nassau Bay Building Inspection Department is currently reviewing processes and procedures in an effort to provide customers a more user friendly experience. Thank you in advance for your patience in this endeavor.

As a note, permits are issued on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 7:30am to 5:30pm. For more information, contact Building Permit Technician Catrina Maxwell at 281-336-6292 or at catrina.maxwell@nassaubay.com.