New Construction Permits: A Beginner’s Guide

At Permit Resources we have several years of experience in helping businesses get the permits they need quickly and efficiently. When it comes to new construction permits and remodeling projects, there are a few important things you should know.

What is a building permit?

A building permit is needed for any construction or remodeling project and can vary depending on the local issuing authority and government agency. A building permit enables either you or your contractor to carry out a building project on an existing building or property. The purpose of a building permit is so that any proposed project is safe and follows the local and regional building and construction laws.

What projects require a building permit?

While many home renovation projects—such as simple repairs or replacements—do not require a permit. However, projects that will change the structure or mechanical systems of a building do require a permit. Here are some examples:

  • Projects that require changes to gas lines
  • Building or repairing a fence
  • Window installation
  • Plumbing work
  • Electrical work
  • Additions to an existing building or home
  • Demolition of a site or part of a building
  • Re-roofing;
  • and more

Types of new construction permits

Here are the different types of new construction permits and building permits. The following are ‘express’ permits or permits that don’t require approval before application:

  • Building
  • HVAC
  • Plumbing
  • Fire protection
  • Electrical
  • Elevators and pressure valves
  • Permits for special events

Plan Check

Simple projects require a Counter Plan Check, which is typically reviewed and approved on the same day of submission. These plan checks are required for commercial and residential projects as well as for temporary events.

Expanded Plan Check

A ‘medium complicated’ project, such as renovations to a multi-level building or an add-on to a home requires an expanded counter plan check. This permit is also reviewed the same day it is submitted.

Regular Plan Check

A regular plan check is for large-scale, complicated projects that must meet legal and regulatory standards. These types of permits often take up to a few weeks to approve, but at Permit Resources, we can help make this new construction permit quicker for you.

Parallel Design Permitting Process

This type of new construction permit is intended for major projects that entail a complete redesign. What this permit allows is for the permitting and design processes to happen together. This type of permit helps projects to identify code violations early, minimize the total permit processing period, save on project costs, and get all the approvals you need upfront instead of having to deal with it later.

Learn more about how Permit Resources can help you expedite new construction and building permits. Feel free to contact us today about your fast permit needs.

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