Residential Work That Does Not Require a Permit

The building code allows work to be done without obtaining a permit. While a permit is not required, the work must be in compliance with the code. The following information pertains to single-family dwellings only. It does not pertain to apartments or condominiums, which are commercial projects.

Some examples of work that does not require a permit are ordinary repairs and improvements, including, but not limited to:

• Painting the inside or outside of the house or detached structures
• Repairing drywall, plaster, siding, re-roofing/shingles, etc.
• Installing new floor coverings, such as vinyl, carpet, or hardwood
• Installing or refurbishing cabinetry
• Repairing or replacing porch flooring or deck flooring.  *Note: A permit is required to repair or replace the structural elements or include posts and guard systems 
• Repairing or replacing handrails on a porch or deck
• Installing or replacing doors and windows, including storm windows, where no structural change is performed
• Installing or replacing gutters and downspouts
• Installing driveways or sidewalks
• Constructing or installing a storage shed, playhouse, etc., 256 square feet or less in area
• Adding a fence (which is not part of a swimming pool enclosure) - refer to subdivision covenants, if applicable
• Building recreational equipment, such as swings, skateboard ramps, jungle gyms, etc.
• Adding insulation
• Installing any wiring or equipment which operates at less than 50 volts
• Installing a security alarm system
• Replacing an electrical water heater with a new electric water heater
• Replacing electrical fixtures, such as switches and receptacles
• Replacing a ceiling fan to a pre-wired switch, that has a ceiling fan rated and supported box
• Replacing plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, faucets, etc.
• Retaining walls that retain less than 36 inches of fill/earth or walks less than 3 feet tall for landscaping purposes only
• Replacing electrical cook top stoves, ranges, and dryers