Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Building Permit?
A Building Permit is a license which grants legal permission to start construction of a building project.
What construction projects need Building Permits?
Building permits are typically required for the following:
- New Buildings
- Additions
- Alterations/Renovations
- Demolitions
- Mobile Homes
- Swimming Pools
- Storm Shelters (over 200 sq. ft.)
- Prefabricated structures over 200 sq. ft. (Storage Buildings)
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing systems
- HVAC systems (heating, cooling, air conditioning)
Do I have to have a permit for a swimming pool?
Yes. Any permanently installed pool larger than 12' diameter and 2' deep requires a permit.
Do I have to have a permit to construct a storage building?
Yes, if it is an accessory building over 200 sq. ft.
Can I build right up to the property lines of my property?
That depends on the zoning of a residential property and the fire protection of the walls on commercial construction.
Can I build before I get the permit?
Starting work prior to obtaining a permit is not safe, nor allowed. Projects started without a permit are subject to a penalty fee and you risk re-doing some or all of the work based on the outcome of the plan review.
Can Building Services give me a list of the preferred builders and sub-contractors for the City of Edmond?
Edmond Building Services can not make recommendations for a specific builder or sub-contractor. If you have specific questions regarding builders and sub-contractors you can call the Central Oklahoma Home Builders Association at 843-1508.
What specific codes does the City of Edmond follow?
- ICC International Building Code (IBC) 2006
- ADAAG ADA Accessory Guidelines 2003
- ANSI American National Standards A117.1 2003
- ICC International Property Maintenance Code 2006
- ICC International Residential Code (IRC) 2006
- ICC International Plumbing Code (IPC) 2006
- ICC International Fuel Gas Code 2006
- ICC International Mechanical Code (IMC) 2006
- ICC Administrative Provisions of Electric Code 2006
- NEC National Electric Code (NEC) 2005
Do I need to have a permit to put a fence up?
The City does not require a permit to put up a fence.
Do I need a permit to install a storm shelter?
A permit is not needed to install a shelter less than 200 sq. ft. However shelter registration is encouraged.
What is a building code?
A building code sets minimum safety standards for construction. It embraces all aspects of building construction – fire and structural items as well as the plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems.
Why inspect a building during construction?
It is the only way to verify independently that code compliance has been achieved.
Why should minimum safety codes apply to my own house?
First and foremost, for your personal safety and that of your family and the guests invited into your home. Additionally, future home purchasers who deserve reasonable assurance that the home they buy will be safe. (A home is typically resold every five to seven years!).
