and understanding. If your jurisdiction has not done that clarification or does not provide a web page for guidance, or if you want to review the source material, you can find the information in the applicable building code. The building code is usually available on the building department’s website, but libraries also typically have hard copies.
If you want to review the source material, you can find the information in the applicable building code.
Building Code Structure
The code is structured to first include an overall statement that a permit is required for any work, followed by a list of exempted types of work that will not need a permit. Some examples from the Washington State Building Code follow.
Examples of Exemptions:
”Any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.” and,
If a project’s scope of work does not align with a specific exemption, it would require a permit. Also, if a scope of work is added to a project that formerly was exempted but the added work is not, a permit would be required. If the condominium board member or association manager is still unsure of whether or not their project requires a permit, city building department staff will be able to answer any questions.
If a project’s scope of work does not align with a specific exemption, it requires a permit.
Permitting Examples
Some permits have simple permit applications, while others are much more complicated. The level of complication will depend on the work being performed and the jurisdiction. Examples of simple permits include re-roofing an uncomplicated roof or adding some electrical outlets or plumbing fixtures. These types of permits are often obtained by the contractor performing the work and they may be ”over the counter” permits that can be processed quickly. More complicated permits would include construction projects that require design drawings to be prepared (e.g. replacement of siding or windows), structural improvements, rot repairs, complicated re-roofing projects, or larger rehabilitation projects that you plan to bid out to contractors.
”Permits shall not be required for the following: ` Building: » One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet.
» Fences not over 7 feet high.
` Plumbing: » The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe, provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drain pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.”
Some projects have simple permit applications, while others can be much more complicated.
When work is being done on multiple buildings within a community, each building has its own address and will need its own permit. This requirement allows the repair work on each building to be tracked and approved as completed. In addition, on duplex, triplex, and 4-plex
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