Most major construction or renovation projects require obtaining a building permit. However, because not every project requires a permit, it can be difficult to know if your particular plans require one. Here is a simple guide to help you determine if you need a permit:
You will likely need a building permit for:
- Demolishing any walls or structures. This includes interior and exterior walls, as well as separate structures like free-standing garages.
- Changing or replacing the pipes in your home. Building permits are required for major plumbing projects to ensure the work is done correctly and safely.
- Re-roofing your house.
- Converting a garage into a living room or similar projects. Changing the major use of a room often requires changes to plumbing and electrical systems, which always requires a building permit.
You don’t usually need a permit for:
- Repainting the outside of your house.
- Replacing minor kitchen appliances.
- Replacing kitchen or bathroom cabinets.
- Installing new flooring.
- Building a small fence in your yard.
How to get a build permit
There are multiple steps to obtain a building permit for any of the above scenarios. Here is a basic guide to the permit process:
- Download or obtain a permit application from the local permit office for the specific project you’re planning.
- Prepare a site plan. You may need an architect or other contractor to help you draw the plans.
- Schedule an appointment for plan approval. The timing for this part of the process can vary depending on the extent and type of your project.
- Once you obtain your permit, you’ll need to schedule one or more inspections during the process. These inspections make sure you’re following the agreed-upon project plan.
- Once your project is completed, all that’s left is to get final city approval.
This is only a basic guide to building permits for major home projects. For a thorough list of the proper permits, consult a contractor or construction professional for details regarding your specific project and plans.
About the Author
Robin Anderson Real Estate
“My Passion is people and relationships and I promise to provide my clients with exceptional service tailored to their individual needs.” -Robin Anderson
Georgia native, Robin Anderson brings her passion for people and her love of homes to work for her clients. She and her husband, Andy, have been married for over 30 years and have two adult children, Ellen and Drew. They currently live in Fulton County, but Robin has lived and invested in properties throughout metro Atlanta as well as helped clients buy and sell. She has been integral to many real estate endeavors including designing and building several custom homes, remodeling homes, subdividing land, managing rental properties, and buying and selling properties. She spent her first 3 years in real estate working with a new home builder, and she has spent the last 6 years working with buyers and sellers in her own community. Robin is highly motivated but sensitive to the fact that buying and selling homes can be an emotional experience, so she makes it a priority to keep clients closely informed throughout the process and strives to produce quick results. She appreciates the opportunity to help her clients navigate the real estate process, and she aspires to deliver quality customer service that is both informative and positive. She is driven to provide outstanding service for her clients and she is focused on building successful and lasting relationships with her clients. This personalized service earns her enthusiastic referrals from clients she is pleased to call friends.Edit
