Building Permits

When doing a home improvement project, it might be necessary for you to secure a building permit. The permitting process is designed to promote safe building practices that are in accordance with the Zoning Ordinances of the City, ensure that work is done correctly and safely eliminate many problems before they start. Please review the provided list of projects which will require a building permit, but remember that this list is not exhaustive.

List of Projects Requiring a Building Permit


  • Adding any type of backup electrical power source
  • Adding a carport
  • Adding a concrete slab, sidewalk, patio, driveway, or approach
  • Adding a daylight window in a basement
  • Adding dirt in large quantities (5 cubic yards), or changing grade
  • Adding new heat ducts/air-conditioning ductwork
  • Adding or dividing rooms
  • Adding or moving plumbing fixtures
  • All decks
  • All fences located in the backyard. (Contact City Hall for type of fencing construction in front or side yards)
  • All new home construction
  • All sheds and playhouses
  • All signs (Must be approved under the City's Zoning Ordinance)
  • Building additions to a house
  • Changing door or window opening sizes
  • Constructing a garage or adding an addition to an existing garage
  • Covering or enclosing a deck, porch, or patio
  • Enlarging garage door openings

  • Finishing an unfinished basement
  • Foundation and Basement Repair
  • Framing, furring of basement walls
  • Installation of swimming pools
  • Installing a fireplace
  • Installing solar panels
  • Installing a sprinkler system, replacement or removal of pressure vacuum breaker
  • Masonry type of fence, fireplace, outside cookers, or structures
  • Re-roofing
  • Re-siding
  • Removing of large quantities of dirt (5 cubic yards), or changing grade
  • Replacing electrical service panels, or adding electrical circuits
  • Replacing or adding furnaces, air conditioners, condensing units
  • Replacing a water heater
  • Replacing water, sewer, or gas lines
  • Tents (120 square feet or larger)
  • Towers (Any type)

Project Approval


In many instances, a licensed contractor will be needed to complete a significant improvement or remodeling project. There are many projects that homeowners can accomplish without a licensed contractor. These projects are still subject to approval of the City Building Inspector, to ensure that homeowners and other citizens are not injured by faulty construction or execution.