HOMEOWNERS AND PERMITS – WHAT CAN I DO WITHOUT A PERMIT?
There are numerous things you can do to your house that do not require permits. Permits are
NOT required for the following:
Buildings Improvements
1. Non-habitable one-story detached accessory structures (storage structures,
playhouses, etc.) provided the floor
area does not exceed 200 square feet, provided
there are no electrical, plumbing or mechanical improvements or additions;
2. Fences not over 2 feet high, unless required for barriers around swimming pools (a
swimming pool barrier is required for any swimming pool, hot tub, spa or similar
structure intended for swimming, recreational bathing or immersion that contains
water over 4 feet depth and constructed after November 21, 1990);
3. Retaining walls that are not over 2 feet in height measured from the bottom of the
footing to the top of the wall unless supporting a surcharge;
4. Private concrete sidewalks, slabs, and driveways not more than 30 inches above
5. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, interior wall, floor or
ceiling covering, and similar finish work;
6. Prefabricated swimming pools where the pool walls are entirely above the adjacent
grade. However, barrier requirements are not exempt;
7. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling;
8. Gutters and downspouts;
9. Door and window replacements (where no structural member is altered or
changed).
Electrical Improvements
1. To remove and replace broken or damaged electrical outlets (like for like only).
However, permits are required to install, upgrade or change outlets for decorative
purposes. If a GFCI protected outlet is required by code, a permit is required;
2. To replace defective breakers (like for like only);
3. To replace light bulbs and fluorescent tubes;
4. To replace an existing garbage disposal, dishwasher, electric tank water heater, or
5. To install low voltage wiring for garage door openers, cable TV, or burglar alarms;
6. To install phone outlets (wire must be listed type wire);
7. To install CATV – Community Access TV (wire must be listed type wire);
8. To replace an existing door bell.