How to Obtain a Building Permit

Before you begin construction, obtain a building permit; without one, you could be subject to heavy fines.

Things You'll Need

• House Plans
• Architect

Instructions

1. Obtain a house plan, including several copies with the architect's seal, for submission to the municipality. If you are building an addition, obtain or draw a plan of the addition or change to the house.

2. Get a building permit application from the municipal building department.

3. Fill out the main section of the application, providing requested information.

4. Have your electrician and plumber fill out their relevant sections.

5. Submit the completed application with copies of the house plans and a survey of the lot. Include payment of the appropriate fee.

6. Submit any other items required by the municipality, such as a septic design, if needed.

Tips & Warnings

• You should file your application significantly in advance of your scheduled construction start date, just in case any complications develop (such as needing to submit additional information).

• Check out Permit Place (see Related Sites) when you need a building permit. It has links to 2500 jurisdictions, advice and free online building permit applications to many of the jurisdictions.

• Many suburban towns have part-time building departments. Avoid any hitches in your construction schedule by knowing their hours and planning accordingly.