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Building Department

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1. When is a building permit required?

A building permit application must be completed whenever a building is to be erected, altered, enlarged, structurally repaired, moved, or converted to different use groups (as defined in the building code). Additionally, a building permit is required for the installation of the following:

• Replacement windows or doors when the opening size is altered
• Pools that are more than 24 inches deep
• Decks (including porches)
• Garages or carports
• Swimming pools
• Hot tubs

A permit is not required for the following:

• Sheds less than 100 square feet in size
• Driveways on grade on private property


• Painting, wallpapering, or other similar finishes
• Replacement windows, doors, or storm doors when the opening size is not altered


• Prefabricated above-ground pools or in-ground pools that are less than 24 inches deep

If your application is approved, you will receive a copy of the actual Building Permit, a Hard Card including a list of required inspections, and a copy of the approved plans. The Hard Card should be posted at the job site so that it is visible from the street. The approved set of construction drawings should be kept at the job site for you and the inspector to refer to until the project is completed.

2. When do I need to schedule an inspection?

Inspections are required for the following items:

• Spread or trench footings


• Footing and drainage system inspections prior to backfill


• Rough plumbing


• Rough electrical


• Rough heating


• Rough building prior to covering


• Insulation


• Final plumbing, heating, and electrical inspections


• Final building


• Final grade (as-built grade certification required)

3. How long is my building permit good for?

Construction must start within six months; however, once construction is started the permit will continue to be in effect as long as continuing progress is shown. A permit that does not show activity for a six-month period will lapse.

4. What do I need to know about the Installation of Above or In-Ground Pools?

If you are considering installing a pool on your property you must contact the City Building Department. Please be aware of the following:

• To install an in-ground or above ground pool an electrical permit is required.
• For an in-ground pool a plumbing permit is required.
• If your pool is going to be heated a mechanical permit may be required.
• Other restrictions may apply.

The City Building Department would be happy to assist you with obtaining any necessary permits and insuring that your new pool is safe. You may contact the Building Department by calling (248) 651-9061 or email the City’s Building Inspector at sbrowne@ci.rochester.mi.us.