Building Permit FAQs
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS PAGE IS NOT TO BE USED IN PLACE OF CONSULTATION WITH THE BUILDING OFFICIAL. IT IS ALWAYS ADVISABLE TO HAVE DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE BUILDING OFFICE BEFORE STARTING ANY PROJECT. 860-379-8830
How long does it take to Issue a Permit? The office has up to 30 days to issue a permit; however, we make every effort to turn around the approval as quickly as possible. There may be several days before your building permit is considered approved and is issued so be sure to plan accordingly. Same day approval and issuance is not guaranteed.
I just submitted an application, does that mean I can start the work? No. No work is to be started until your Permit has been Approved & the Permit Fees are Paid in Full!
How much does a Building Permit Cost? The Building Official has the right to evaluate the permit cost based on the Actual Value of the project. A minimum $31 permit fee applies to the value of a project $2,500 and under. A $12.26 per Thousand valuation applies to all projects over $2,500. Keep in mind, housing additions, garages, etc. the cost will be estimated per square foot in accordance with town ordinance. Any questions should be directed to the Building Official at 860-379-8830.
Who should take out the permit?
The licensed contractor should take out the permit and present the Building Official with a copy of his/her license. Separate Permits Must be pulled for projects involving multiple trades (there are NO Blanket Permits). Permits will not be Issued unless all requirements have been met. A homeowner is allowed to take out the permit in his/her name for Single Family Homes ONLY, if they are doing the work themselves. Please call the Building Official for details.
When are Building Permits Required?
A building permit is required for all new homes or structures, additions, renovations, sheds, decks, roofs, and swimming pools. There are often many other cases where a permit is required; it is always best to call 860-379-8830 before starting any work. If you have any questions as to whether or not you need a permit, please call! It is ALWAYS best to ask and find out that you do NOT need one than to find out after the fact that you should have had one.
When are HVAC Permits Required?
HVAC permits are required for all Heating or Air Conditioning (HVAC) work that is to be done. This includes but is not limited to all new services (for renovations or new homes), wood/pellet stove installation and repairs.
Building Permits for New Homes, renovations, and additions:
The General Contractor hired should take out the Building Permit. If the homeowner takes the permit out in his/her name, they become the General Contractor and are responsible to check for proper licenses and insurance from the contractors they hire.
Building Permits for sheds, decks and repairs:
If the homeowner is completing the work themselves, they are required to take out the Building Permit. If they hire someone, the permit may be taken out in either the homeowner's or the contractor's name. If the homeowner takes out the permit, they are responsible to check for proper licenses and insurance for the contractors they hire.
What is required to get a Building Permit?
Before a building permit will be granted for any new home, barn, shed or other structure which increases the footprint of the existing structure the following is required:
- Inland Wetlands and Zoning Approvals (Please see Land Use for details or call Mike Lucas at 860-379-7677.)
- For any property which has a well and/or septic Farmington Valley Health District (FVHD) approval must be granted. To contact FVHD please call 860-352-2333.
- Two copies of the building plans must be submitted for the Building Official to review.
When are Inspections Required?
Click here for all of the following required inspections. If you have any questions please call the Building Department at 860-379-8830.