Do You Need A Building Permit?

When deciding whether you need to pull a permit for your remodel or addition it is important to consult the city in which you live; each city has different rules and regulations concerning building permits.
Different cities have different variance codes based on different factors; specific weather patterns, soil types, whether there are earthquake faults, tornadoes, high fire zones, chronic windy areas, etc. All our determinants of what permits must be pulled for what building taking place.
The state of California has the strictest enforcement of permit codes, out of the 52 states. Legally you must pull a permit for even small jobs such as, installing retrofit windows, removing and replacing plugs or adding additional electrical outlets. Simple projects not requiring a permit in most states include; removing or replacing plumbing for upgrade, painting, flooring, installing built in wall units, kitchen cabinets, providing no electrical or plumbing work is involved.
It is important to discuss future home repair or home addition projects with any home owners association you might be involved with. Some communities have rules against building or adding to an existing structure. Some communities strictly enforce certain paint colors allowed on the outside of a house. Checking with your association can deter any possible problems that might occur after a project is complete.
One thing is certain, if a permit is to be pulled it is very important to do so. Not pulling permits can be cause for great consequence. If you are a homeowner that doesn't pull a permit, sometimes referred to as the "Dumb homeowner syndrome," you might get away with a slap on the hand, but a contractor knowing better, can face possible fines and maybe even suspension of a license; depending on the type of work done.