PERMITS & INSPECTIONS

Building permits are important because they ensure public safety, protect property values, and ensure legal compliance for construction projects. They require a review of plans to verify adherence to building codes for structural integrity, fire safety, and sanitation, followed by inspections to confirm the work is done correctly. This process prevents hazards, avoids legal issues like fines or demolition, and creates a documented record that is valuable for future insurance and sales.

BUILDING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

Current Codes:

United Code Consultants enforces Building Codes and local Ordinances throughout the United States. Check with your local Municipality for the currently adopted Building Code.

Pennsylvania:

PA Uniform Construction Code
2021 International Codes

North Carolina:

Office of State Fire Marshal
2018 International Codes

South Carolina:

SC Building Codes Council
2021 International Codes

Important considerations

Check local requirements:

These guidelines are general; it is essential to check with your specific local building department or municipality, as requirements can vary.
When in doubt, ask:

If you are unsure whether your project needs a permit, contact your local building code official for clarification before you begin work.
Emergency repairs:

Emergency repairs may not require a permit upfront, but you must typically submit an application to the building code official within a few business days

NOTE:

Questions, Comments, Concerns or any Applications

can be sent to the Building Code Official at: dsmith@unitedcodeconsultants.com

Building Permits, When are they required?

Building permits are required for most construction, addition, and major alteration projects, including work on a building's structure, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing systems. You will need a permit for projects like new construction, significant renovations, structural changes, and the installation of pools or hot tubs. In general, permits are also needed if a project involves changing a building's layout, occupancy, or means of egress.

When permits are typically required

Construction and additions: Building new structures, additions, garages, or porches.
Alterations and repairs: Making significant changes to a building's structure, including cutting structural beams or load-bearing walls. This also includes changes that affect the means of egress (exits).
Electrical, gas, and plumbing: Installing, altering, or replacing any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system. This includes adding circuits, changing fixture locations, or major updates.
Roofs and windows: Any changes to the roof design or the size of window and door openings.
Demolition and moving: Demolishing or moving an existing structure.
Site work: Excavating or filling an area, constructing a driveway curb cut, or replacing sidewalks and curbs.
Swimming pools: Installing both above-ground and in-ground swimming pools.
Occupancy changes: Changing a building's use or occupancy.

When permits may not be required

Minor repairs:

Routine maintenance, painting, papering, tiling, and carpet replacement generally do not require a permit.
Minor electrical work:

Replacing light bulbs or connecting portable appliances to permanently installed receptacles.
Minor plumbing work:

Replacing a minor part of a system or installing a small, self-contained refrigeration system.
Accessory structures:

In some cases, small accessory structures like sheds may be exempt from a building permit, but you may still need a zoning or other permit from your municipality.
Window replacement:

Replacing windows without structural change is often exempt.
Temporary structures:

Structures erected for a short duration for a fair or festival may not require a permit.