Why do I Need a Building Permit?
The Kaysville Building Department receives daily phone calls about building permit requirements. Obtaining a building permit can be vital to ensuring that your project meets Utah State Code (2021 IRC or 2021 IBC) and it is inspected by a City Building Inspector. Most contractors and many residents are aware that building permits are required for structural improvements and need to meet 140 mph, Exp B wind speed with engineered stamped calculations. But what about smaller non-structural projects?
According to the 2021 IRC (International Residential Code) R105.1 :
Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
Generally, if it needs to be inspected for electrical, framing, plumbing, mechanical or other building-related items, it most likely requires a permit. If it is strictly cosmetics, like flooring, paint or cabinets, it does not require a permit. If you are unsure, contact the Building Department.
Building permit benefits include:
• Plans reviewed to meet Utah state code compliance
• Contractors’ license information verified with DOPL
• Inspections by ICC Certified City Building Inspectors
• Permit recorded with Kaysville City & Davis County
• Obeying the law! (Kaysville Title 18-1-8) Avoid potential fines or Class C misdemeanor charges
If you sell your property, building permits for home improvements are essential. Be advised that building permits are public records. The Building Department receives repeated GRAMA requests from realtors and/or perspective buyers regarding the permitting of basements and other improvements. Also, be aware that finalizing a permit is just as important as obtaining a permit. The permit remains active if inspections are scheduled but will expire if no activity occurs within 180 days. Once the final inspection passes, the permit closes, documenting that all compliance requirements were met.
A frequent building permit is a basement finish. The fee is $245.70 regardless of square footage. This fee has intentionally remained the same for years to encourage residents to apply for a permit. The fee covers the plan review, the 4-way, insulation and final inspection. To start any building permit application, click HERE and create an account to access the digital application. Please select the type of building permit template to prompt the attachment plans required. If you have questions about the application process or any other building permit topic, please contact the Building Department at 801-544-1363.