New Home - Getting Permits
In this article we're going to cover the securing of various
permits that you will need to get before you can build your
home.
Prior to construction beginning the builder must get a number of
permits before he can even hammer one nail. In most cases the
builder will get all the necessary permits on your behalf but
it's important for you to understand what's involved in this
process and be ready to do some of the running around if the
builder is tied up. There are a number of things you're going to
need.
The first thing is, you're going to have to have an inspector
come down to make sure that the proposed construction abides by
all the zoning regulations. In many communities zoning is
already in place but some communities do require one last
inspection regardless.
Next you're going to need wells and septic permits. This is
required if your new home is located in an area without public
water or sewer services. You're going to need to drill a well
and a private sewage disposal system will need to be installed.
These permits need to be obtained from the proper state and
county authorities. If your home is going to be connected to
public sewer systems then you are going to need to get permits
in order to be hooked up to these systems.
Finally, you're going to need building permits. These permits
are usually issued by the county the home is being built in.
During the actual building process the county will come down to
actually inspect your new home during construction to make sure
it complies with local building codes. In addition to the
building permits you may also need permits for utilities like
electricity and natural gas. You may also need permits for other
services like telephone and cable television. You're probably
going to have to remit a fee for each permit that is needed.
Some of the hookups will need to be done during construction
while others can wait until after the home is completed.
In addition to all the above there are some restrictions as to
what can and cannot be built on a lot. Some of these
restrictions are enforced to the letter of the law. Others are
totally ignored. This will vary from county to county. Depending
on the restriction you may or may not have to get a permit for
whatever addition you want to make to your home. There are steps
to getting these permits.
First, you have to get an application. Each application is
different depending on what you want added. The applications
themselves are very complex and should be filled out very
carefully. Most of these applications require a fee.
Second, you need a plan review. A committee of homeowners in
your area have a right to go over your plans and decide if they
feel your additions are okay. These committees make sure any
plans comply with local guidelines. This review could take a
day, a week, or several months.
Finally, there is compliance. Some areas have committees that
inspect the actual construction of the home to make sure that it
complies with all local laws and that it is being built
according to the approval given by the plan review committee.
Yes, there is a lot to building a new home. But once everything
is in place, if done by the book, your new home should bring you
joy for many years to come.