Building Permits

Why Are They Needed?

PROJECTS NEEDING A BUILDING PERMIT

• New Buildings
• Electrical Systems
• Pool, Deck, Ect.
• Additions
• Plumbing Systems
• Piers
• Renovations
• HVAC Systems
• Other
• Demolitions
• Modular Homes
• Mobile Homes
• Temporary Buildings

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A BUILDING PERMIT?

The Building Permit is the basic administrative device used in enforcing the laws that relate to building construction, repair or alteration.  It is used to enforce the State Building Code, the national Electrical Code, the various plumbing codes, fire-limits ordinances, zoning ordinances, sign ordinances, and many other local ordinances relating to such activities.  The permit system is enforced to protect the public health, safety and welfare.

WHY IS A BUILDING PERMIT NEEDED?

To provide the means for the inspector to insure that the building project meets the minimum requirements according to the technical standards of the code.

HOW DO I GET A PERMIT?

When you call the inspection office, normally the first question you will be asked is, “What is the location of the project?”.  This will ensure that you are within the jurisdiction of the Town of Ahoskie Inspection department.  It will be followed by asking, “What are you planning to do?”.  There are a number of variables concerning obtaining a Building Permit.  Knowing the type of project that you are doing will guide the department in helping you obtain the correct permit.

Generally, the following is the required sequence for obtaining a Building Permit:

1.  APPLICATION:

Come by the office and complete an application describing the type of project, location, size, contractor’s name, ect.  This information will assist the department in deciding what type permit(s) you will need and allow the Zoning Department, Electrical Department, Public Works Department, Fire Marshall and health Department opportunity to review your project for placement and type compliance.

BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION (4).pdf 

PLAN REVIEW APPLICATION.pdf 

2.   ISSUANCE:

Most building permits can be issued without delay, however, occasionally the permit review system may take up to three days, depending on the complexity of the project, before the permit can be issued.

3. FEE:

(Residential) (Commercial) (General Inspections)
Once the permit has been approved you will pay a fee that is used, in part to help defray the cost of the inspectors time spent in application process, the review process and the on-site inspection process.

4. PERMIT:

Once the permit has been issued you will need to post it in a window or other conspicuous place that is accessible to the inspector.  The drawing(s) will remain available at the job site, and any changes must be brought to the attention of the inspector immediately.

5. INSPECTIONS:

Each and every required phase of construction, rough-in for each trade, other in-process inspections and final inspection, must be made in a timely manner by the inspector to make certain the work conforms to the applicable Code, the Building permit and approved plans.

6. CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY:

Final inspection determining the code compliance is a valuable and necessary part of the construction process.  Once code compliance is determined, the inspector will issue a Certificate of Occupancy which establishes that your project is completed.  This document gives you permission to occupy the building knowing it has met the minimum safety standards.