FAQs
Why are building permits required?
What are the benefits of having a building permit?
What is a building code?
How can I obtain a permit?
What building codes are used in Connecticut?
Will my taxes increase?
What is a plot plan?
Where can I obtain a plot plan?
Why are inspections necessary?
Can a homeowner work on their own house?
What are mechanical permits?
Why are building permits required?
A building permit serves as formal and legal permission to start any construction job. The issuance of a building permit indicates that plans for a new structure, addition, alteration, renovation, foundation, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, electrical, prefabricated structures, etc. have been approved by a building inspector and complies with mandated building codes and zoning regulations.
What are the benefits of having a building permit?
Increased Value - Your home or business is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with the codes adopted by your community, the value of your investment could be reduced. Property insurers may not cover work done without permits and inspections. If you decide to sell a home or building that has had modifications without a permit, you may be required to tear down the addition, leave it unoccupied or do costly repairs.
Protects - A property owner who can show that code requirements were strictly and consistently met, as demonstrated by a code official's carefully maintained records, has a strong ally if something happens to trigger a potentially destructive lawsuit.
Ensures safety - Your permit also allows the code official to protect the public by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and ensuring public health, safety and welfare. By following code guidelines, your completed project will meet minimum standards of safety and will be less likely to cause injury to you, your family, your friends or future owners.
What is a building code?
Building codes are laws and ordinances established by local, state, and federal governments which set minimum safety standards. Building codes embrace all aspects of the building construction--- structural as well as plumbing, electrical, hvac and mechanical.
How can I obtain a permit?
| 1. |
Talk to Your Local Code Official |
|
Your code official wants your project to be a success and will help you avoid potential problems that could cost you time and money. You will be asked some basic questions (What are you planning to do? Where?), advised of any requirements and, if necessary, referred to other departments for their approval. The code official will provide you with the resources and information needed for compliance with the applicable building codes. You will then receive an application for a building permit. |
| 2. |
Submit Application |
|
At this stage you will document the "Who", What, When, Where and How" of the job, along with any sketches or plans of the proposed work. Normally, separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing, and heating or air-conditioning work. In a brief amount of time, the code official will review your plans and determine if your project is in compliance with local requirements. If your plans meet these requirements, a permit is issued. If not, the code official may suggest solutions to help correct the problem. |
| 3. |
Receive Permit |
|
Now that you have been approved for a permit, you have legal permission to start construction. A fee, based on the size of the job, is collected to cover the cost of the application, the review and the inspection process. An experienced code official is available to you should you have any questions concerning your project. You should consider your code official as an ally who will help you make your project a success. |
| 4. |
Job-site Visits |
|
On-site inspections will be required to make certain the work conforms to the permit, local codes and plans. Again, you will have access to the expertise of the code official to help you with questions or concerns regarding the project and to ward off potentially costly mistakes. The code official will let you know approximately how many inspections may be needed for your project. Usually, a one-or two-day notice is needed when requesting visits. |
| 5. |
Receive Final Approval |
|
The code official will provide documentation when construction is complete and code compliance is determined. You will then have the personal satisfaction of a job done right. Enjoy your new surroundings with the peace of mind and the knowledge that they meet the safety standards in your community. |
What building codes are used in Connecticut?
Effective December 31, 2005
2003 International Building Code with 2005 CT. Amendments
2003 International Residential Code with 2005 CT. Amendments
2003 International Mechanical Code with 2005 CT. Amendments
2003 International Plumbing Code with 2005 CT. Amendments
2003 International Energy Conservation Code with 2005 CT. Amendments
2005 National Electrical Code with 2005 CT. Amendments
ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003 Accessible and Usable Building and Facilities
State Building Code: 2005 Connecticut Supplement: available by download from this website: www.ct.gov/dps
Will my taxes increase?
The Assessor's office can help you with tax related questions. They can be reached at (860) 283-0305
What is a plot plan?
A plot plan is a drawing prepared by a licensed surveyor showing property lines and building locations.
Where can I obtain a plot plan?
The Building Department has many plot plans on file. Please call us to check our files before you come in.
Why are inspections necessary?
Inspections are performed by a building inspector, who checks each phase of construction and makes certain that the work conforms to the building codes, the approved plans, and the permit.
Can a homeowner work on their own house?
A homeowner can work on his own house provided the house is a Single Family Owner Occupied Dwelling.
If the house is rental property or a multi-family dwelling a Connecticut licensed professional must perform the electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, sprinkler, mechanical, etc.
What are mechanical permits?
Mechanical permits include electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, sprinkler, hood systems, low voltage wiring, etc.
Note: The information contained on these web pages is subject to change without notice. This is intended to be a guide only. There will be circumstances where information will be required which will not be listed.
|
Top | 
Print | 
Email This Page
