When is a Permit Needed?

Please contact staff at (757) 393-8531 for any questions

A permit is required for the following activities:

1. Construction or alteration of a structure.
2. Construction of an addition.
3. Demolition or relocation of a structure.
4. Making a change of occupancy.
5. Installing or altering any equipment which is regulated by this code.
6. Moving a lot line which affects an existing structure.

Exceptions

Installation of wiring or equipment which operates at less than 50 volts provided the installation is not located in a noncombustible plenum or penetrating an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating.

Construction of detached utility sheds not exceeding 150 square feet of building Area and 102 inches in wall height and when accessory to any use group building except Use Group F or H.

Tents and air-supported structures that cover an area of 900 square feet or less, including all connecting areas of spaces with a common means of egress or entrance and with an occupant load of 50 or less persons.

Replacement of plumbing and electrical fixtures, fixture fittings, plumbing and electrical appliances including electric hot water heaters, fans, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air cleaners and similar mechanical equipment, windows and doors with similar capacity and in the same location in Use Groups R-2 (four stories or less), R-3 and R-4. Changes to duct systems, plumbing supply, drain, waste and vent piping, electrical circuits, appliance vent systems (other than re-connection to replacement equipment, appliances and fixtures) require a permit.

Application is not required for ordinary repairs. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or load bearing support, or the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall ordinary repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety.

Work which the Department of Permits & Inspections official has authorized pending receipt of application.