by John F Mann

Created on: July 11, 2010

For many Americans, the term "building permit" tends to evoke thoughts of Soviet-style bureaucracy. Homeowners often consider building permit regulations to be a police-state type intrusion, even when they actually know next-to-nothing about the process. Contractors all-too-frequently "persuade" owners to have worked performed without a permit to avoid the perceived hassle of those dreaded inspectors.   

"Fear-of-building-permit" affliction is mostly not justified. A building permit is actually worthwhile protection for the owner. However, to ensure full benefits and avoid potential delays, homeowners should obtain basic knowledge about the permit process before embarking on a building project, whether a new house or a kitchen remodel.  

PURPOSE OF BUILDING PERMIT

When crossing a bridge, especially a long, high span over water, we clearly understand the need for safe construction. Those who have been inside buildings during hurricanes or earthquakes also realize (very clearly) the critical importance of proper construction.

During  more usual daily events, we tend to forget about safety of building construction. In general, such lack of concern is expected and necessary so we can focus on solving more immediate problems. However, ensuring building safety remains an essential function that should not be neglected.  

A building permit is one tool that can be useful in the effort to provide safe buildings. 

Constructing a new building or making changes (alterations) to elements of an existing building must be done properly to ensure safety of occupants, both current and future.

Though difficult for current owners and occupants of buildings to admit, they will almost certainly not outlive the building unless it has already started to collapse. The building essentially has a "life" of its own and will serve new owners.  The permit process, when applied correctly, helps to ensure that building safety is maintained throughout the life of the building.

BUILDING PERMIT PROCESS; GENERAL

In the US, each municipality (city, township, borough) or county generally has a building department that is responsible for managing the building permit process.

Key code officials, such as construction official, are typically local government (municipal, county) employees. For small communities, code officials may be state employees. Building inspectors are often government employees also. However, inspection functions may be subcontracted out to private-sector

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