When do I not need a building permit?

Permits are not required for the following:

  • Fences below eight feet in height, although Planning Division approval is always required before construction.
  • Retaining walls that are not more than three feet in height, measured from the top of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or ground slope of 5%. Please note: The presence of a building / structure within five feet or existence of a geogrid is a surcharge.
  • One-story detached accessory buildings with no electrical or plumbing installed, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, that are less than eight feet in total height and do not block any windows of the dwelling; zoning clearance is required before construction.
  • Awnings over doors and windows, in residential construction, which are entirely supported by the building and do not project more than 54 inches.
  • Raised wood decks, which are less than 30 inches above the ground at all points
  • Painting, papering, carpets, and similar finish work.

For a complete list, please see our Work Exempt from a Building Permit handout.

Building Permits

Show All Answers

1. When do I not need a building permit?
2. When do I need a building permit?
3. How do I schedule an inspection?
4. Can I call and get a specific time for my morning or afternoon inspection?
5. Why do I need a permit?
6. Who can take out permits for work at a residence?
7. How do I obtain a building permit?
8. What items need to be submitted for a spa permit?
9. How high does a fence have to be around a pool or spa?
10. Does a portable (self-contained) spa need a permit?
11. How deep does a gas line have to be buried?
12. How deep does an electric line need to be buried?
13. Is a permit required for a block retaining wall?
14. Do I need a permit for lawn sprinklers?
15. Is a permit required for replacement of a water heater?
16. Is a permit required to replace a garbage disposal or dishwasher?
17. Is a permit required to replace a shower pan, bathtub, or the tile surrounds?
18. Is a permit required to install a freestanding fireplace or fireplace insert?
19. Do I have to be present during the inspection?
20. What type of information do I need to submit for residential remodels and additions?
21. How long does it take for the plan review for additions?
22. Do I need to submit energy calculations for a residential addition?
23. What type of foundation can I use for my addition?
24. What codes are the City of Dublin using?
25. How many inspections do I need for my re-roof permit?
26. Do you have any type of expedition process for my plan check?
27. Is a resubmittal given the same turnaround time of three weeks as a first-time submittal?
28. Can I get two inspections for the same job in the same day?
29. If I do the work myself, why can't my valuation be lower than if I hired a contractor?
30. Is it better for the owner or the contractor to pull permits?
31. Can I pay for my business license when I pay for my permit and use one check?
32. Do I need to submit structural calculations for a residential addition?
33. Can I pay for my permit with a credit card?
34. Does the City offer any evening inspections?