Building permits are typically required for any construction improvement, repair, alteration, construction, or demolition project, including pool or spa installations, sandblasting, most excavation and the erection of temporary structures such as temporary power poles. Permits are also required for re-roofing projects and improvements to plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems. When some portion of the proposed work includes construction or alteration of the sidewalk, alley or public street, a construction permit is also required from the City’s Public Works Department.
Some common improvements are exempt from building permit requirements, including:
- One-story detached tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses if they do not contain utilities and are less than fourteen feet in height and one hundred twenty square feet in floor area
- Exterior freestanding walls and fences not over six feet high, when measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall
- Retaining walls measuring less than four feet from the top of the wall to the bottom of the foundation, with level backfill and not supporting an adjacent building, pool or driveway
- Finish work including carpeting, wall papering and painting
- Addition of window awnings
- Fixing stoppages and leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures without replacing materials
- Concrete or asphalt patios or driveways constructed on natural grade
- Decks less than 30 inches in height when constructed on level grade
- Movable cases, counters, and partitions not over five feet nine inches high