Work that requires a permit
We require a permit for all work not specifically exempt from the building code. This applies to:
- Residents and homeowners
- Contractors
- Commercial owners
- Work that is structural in nature, such as adding or replacing:
- Beams
- Posts
- Joists
- Rafters
If your construction project has accessibility issues, see Applications, forms and handouts
Common exterior projects requiring a permit
Follow the links below for more information about a specific project.
Changes to the house itself
- Detached Garages and Building Permits
- Roofing
- Siding
- Replacement doors/windows
- Retaining walls more than four feet in height
- Stairs - exterior/interior
- Skylights
- Repair or replacement of brick or stone facades
Additions to the house
- Any deck, platform, stoop or ramp, regardless of height that provides direct access to the dwelling.
- Any deck, platform or ramp not attached to the dwelling that does not provide direct access to the dwelling and that is more than 30" above grade.
- Additions
Outdoor living and landscaping projects
- Garages New garage or replacement of old. Installation or replacement of doors or windows.
- Sheds, greenhouses, utility buildings, and screened porches, if detached and under 200 square feet in area, do not require a permit. If these structures are attached to the house or garage a permit is always required.
- Swimming pools 24 inches deep and over 150 square feet in area
- Demolition of buildings including garages over 1,000 square feet in floor area
- Fences over seven feet high
- Moving a structure
- When placing a dumpster or storage unit in the street or public right-of-way
Exterior work that does not require a permit
No permit is needed for:
- Fences under seven feet tall, generally
- Painting your house or trim
- Installing or replacing gutters
- Installing or replacing soffit or fascia
- A storage shed under 200 square feet
- Digging a new garden or planting trees or bushes
Contact Gopher State One Call - Driveway resurfacing