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1. Do I need a permit to re-shingle my roof?

Eaton County has decided not to require a permit to re-shingle a roof in most cases. If you are replacing more than 2-4X8 sheets of roof decking, a permit will be required. Please note that a roof may not have more than 2 layers of roofing materials installed no matter the type. A person or company contracting for this type of work must be licensed.

2. Do I need a permit for my accessory building?

The building codes do require a permit for any buildings that exceed 200 square feet for residential buildings and 120 square feet for commercial buildings. This includes sheds and buildings that are pre built or manufactured.

3. Do I need a permit to replace windows or siding?

Eaton County has decided not to require permits for siding replacement. We do require a permit for window replacement when the opening size is altered by making it larger or making bedroom windows smaller. Please note that bedroom windows must either meet the minimum required egress size or be replaced with a window that does not reduce the current window opening size. A person or company contracting for this type of work must be licensed.

4. Why does a "portable" building require a permit.

The building codes do not differentiate between a portable and fixed building. If a building exceeds 200 square feet in residential or 120 square feet in commercial properties, a permit is required.

5. Do I need a permit for a deck that is not attached to my home?

In most cases yes. The code requires a permit for any deck that serves an exit door regardless of whether it is attached to the building or free standing. A deck that is at least 36" from another structure, and is less than 30" above grade and does not exceed 200 square feet would be exempt from a permit.

6. How do I obtain my new address?

Addresses are assigned by Central Dispatch and the process is started when a building permit is obtained. An address is usually assigned within 2-3 weeks after the permit is issued. 

7. Do I need a permit for interior remodeling?

In most cases yes. There are a number of things that require inspection even during minor remodeling project. It is best to call our office and describe the project to determine if a permit is required.

8. How do I get my power turned back on after it has been off for a period of time.

The utility companies require an inspection before power can be restored and an electrical permit is required for that inspection.

9. What are building permit fees based on?

New structures are based on the square footage of the building type following the International Code Council's valuation table. Remodeling and alterations are based on the contract amount or value of the of the project. 

10. Can I get a homeowner permit if I own the property but do not live there?

The laws that govern licensing require a Michigan licensed contractor to do all work with the exception that a property owner may obtain permits on the property that they occupy or will occupy. 

11. Can I build a pole barn style house?

Yes, as long as all of the building and energy code requirements can be met. 

12. Do I need to be home during an inspection?

In any case where the house is occupied or personal items are present, we will require someone over the age of 18 to be there. 

13. Are refunds offered?

In most cases once the permits are processed at least a portion of the permit fee will be forfeited. Once inspections have been made, in most cases the fees are not refundable. Permit fees may not be transferred to another permit, project or property.

14. How far do I have to be from power lines?

It depends on which type of power line. If it is a primary power line, which are the power lines that run from pole to pole and do not go to the house or other building, it is best to contact the utility company directly. For power lines going to a home or other building, the horizontal clearance is 18" and the vertical distance is 3 feet above a roof with a slope of 4/12 or greater and 8 feet from a roof with a slope of less than 4/12.

Consumers Energy https://www.consumersenergy.com/

Homeworks Tri-County Co-op https://homeworks.org/

Lansing Board of Water and Light http://www.lbwl.com/

15. How far do I have to be from my well and septic.

The distances from wells, septic tanks and drain fields are set by the Barry Eaton District Health Department. https://www.barryeatonhealth.org/