What if I made an alteration to my home without realizing I needed a permit and I want to correct the situation; will I be subject to a fine? Do I have to tear the whole project down and start over?

Penalties can be levied for those who refuse to comply with the law. The Building Division would rather see a building conform to the code than punish a homeowner. If a homeowner discovers that they did not obtain a permit when required, they do not necessarily have to tear the project down and start over. If the alteration can meet the applicable codes, they will be approved.

Our inspectors won't necessarily approve something they cannot see and may require small sections of wall or roof covering be removed to verify the construction meets the code. There can be no guarantee that some changes may need to be made, and some may not be easy to accomplish.

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1. Why do I need a building permit?
2. When do I need an emergency work permit?
3. When do I need a building permit?
4. When do I need a mechanical permit?
5. Why do I need a plumbing permit?
6. Don't permits cost thousands of dollars?
7. What if I made an alteration to my home without realizing I needed a permit and I want to correct the situation; will I be subject to a fine? Do I have to tear the whole project down and start over?
8. What is the purpose of the permits and codes?
9. If I get a permit to remodel my home that was built ten years ago, do I remodel using the building codes that were in affect at the time my home was originally built or to today's code?
10. If I remodel my house, do I have to bring the entire home up to the codes in effect today?
11. Why should I use a licensed contractor?
12. If a licensed contractor is doing the construction should I rely on my contractor to get the permit?
13. I’m doing work that is exempt from a building permit. Is there anything else I should be concerned about?