Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ's

Do I Need a Permit...?

If I am having a new roof put on?
No, as not as long as you are only replacing the shingles. If there is a need to replace the wood on your roof, we ask that you file an application with the building department. If a permit is not needed, no fee will be charged.

If I am having new windows and doors installed?
No, not as long as the windows or doors are replacement and you are not increasing or decreasing the size of the opening.

To move into the store I just leased?
Yes, an application must be filed for the use to be approved prior to any occupancy inspections being performed by the inspector.

For the electrical wiring I want to do in my house or garage?
Yes, electrical inspections are needed to make sure the work is safe.

For minor repairs in my home?
Depends on the kind of repairs. Call for additional information.

To put up a fence?
Yes, any type of fencing, no matter how long, needs a permit.

To repair the rotted wood on my porch?
Probably not, as long as no structural changes or additions are being made.

To put in a new bathroom?
Yes, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical inspections are needed to ensure safety.

To put a light or garage door opener in my detached garage?
Yes, wires going in a trench need to be inspected prior to filling in the trench. Any electricity to the garage/shed must meet the code for your protection.

To replace my water heater?
Yes, you would need a plumbing permit.

To replace my furnace or air conditioner?
Yes, you would need a mechanical permit.

What is the Permit Process?

Call or visit your local building department in person, or by website
Being prepared will save you time. You will be asked what you are planning to do, the address, and how the work is to be done. These answers will determine what type of application will be used. This should also provide you with the information needed to make your project a success and to avoid potential problems which could cost you time and money.

Submit an Application and Site Plan
The application provides the building department information about the construction project you are doing. You will need to provide WHO will perform the work, WHAT work will be done, WHERE the work will be done, HOW the work will be done, and a list of supplies that will be used. Drawings, plans or sketches of the proposed work will have to be submitted for review.

Review Time
Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing applications are processed at the time of application.  Building permits take longer - 7 to 10 days - as they must be reviewed by the Building Official and the Zoning Official. Some plans may need to be reviewed by the City's Planners and/or Engineers and Planning Commission. The time frame for this review will be discussed when the application is submitted.

Issuing a Permit
No work may be started until a permit is issued. This rule is for your protection as well as to ensure the City that the work complies with applicable city ordinances. Fees and/or bonds will be paid at the time of the issuance of the permit. Additional fees for hook-ups to water and sewer lines will also be paid at the time of issuance of a permit.

Posting the Permit
You are required to post your building permit in a window or other prominent place at the construction site. All lots under construction must be clearly marked with the lot number and the address of the property before any inspections will be made. Addresses can be posted on the lot (not in the City's right of way), or on the building. You are also required to keep a copy of the building plans at the site and notify the Building Department of any proposed changes. Changes may require a review and approval the same as the original application.

Inspections
The City requires certain phases of construction to be inspected by the City Inspectors to make sure the work conforms to the codes adopted by the City. This is explained more fully in the INSPECTIONS section.

Certificate of Occupancy
When all inspections have been approved and finaled by each of the City Inspectors, you will be issued a certificate of occupancy for new homes or new businesses. This certificate marks the completion of your construction project and gives you permission to occupy the building.

Inspections

Inspections are necessary to make certain the work performed by the individual or contractor conforms to the codes adopted by the City.

The person who filed for the permit is responsible for requesting each inspection. Normally, 24 hours advance notice is required. If the work is not completed at inspection time, a re-inspection fee will be charged.

Typical inspections for any type of new construction could be:

Building - footing, foundation/backfill, peastone, garage/porch footing, garage sand, brick flashing, rough, insulation, final

Electrical - rough, final

Mechanical - fireplace rough, heat/air rough, final

Plumbing - underground, rough, final

Any additional inspections would be determined by the inspector. The building inspector has the right to make additional on-site inspections as he deems appropriate.

All other trades must have their rough and final inspections approved before the building rough and final inspections will be done.

Other kinds of inspections depend on the type of work.

Fences - final

Signs - electrical - final, building - final

Accessory buildings/sheds - footings, final

Re-occupancy for commercial - final

Decks - post holes, final

E-mail the Building Department

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This page was last updated on 01/13/10 10:43 AM.  Copyright © 2003   City of Richmond, Michigan.