Building Codes

1. To provide minimum requirements to safeguard the public health and general welfare.
2. The International Code Council is a non profit organization committed to safe building construction. They develop Building Codes adopted by government Agencies - World Wide.
3. Building codes change over time as new techniques are developed, and new hazards are discovered.

Since the time your home was originally build, the Building codes that apply to some components of your home may have changed.

The codes in effect at the time of the original construction still apply, they are grandfathered in.

If you do additions or upgrades to your home, you may in some instances be required to meet the current building codes.

Note:

A residence that has all of the proper building permits will usually have more value to a buyer and lender than one that does not.

Building permits

1. One-Story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, play houses and similar uses provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.
2. Fences not over 6 feet high
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Sidewalks & driveways.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work.
7. Prefabricated swimming pools less than 24 inches deep.
8. Swings and other playground equipment.
9. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
10. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door.

Almost everything else requires a building permit. Check if permits are required in your area before work begins.