Building Regulations--2007 Updates
Applying for a building permit
Building permit review and approval process
Plumbing, mechanical and electrical permits
How to Appeal a Building Code Requirement
A building permit is required for almost all construction except for minor repairs and small, portable storage sheds. Zoning approval is required for portable sheds and other new structures even if a building permit is not required, to ensure that the construction conforms to all zoning requirements and is not in an easement.
Permits also must be obtained for all plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work.
Building permits must be applied for on a City form available at the Department of Community Development, 3600 86th Street. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday except for holidays. Call (515) 278-3935 for more information.
Applying for a building permit.
Building permits must be applied for on a City form available at the Department of Community Development, 3600 86th Street. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday except for holidays. Permit applications must be accompanied by plans and specifications for the proposed construction. A fee is charged for all permits. Call (515) 278-3935 for more information. Download the application.
Building permit review and approval process.
The review and approval of a building permit application is an administrative function performed by City staff. Permit applications are not reviewed by the City Council or any other policy body. The plans and specifications submitted with the permit will be reviewed by the Building Official/Plans Examiner for compliance with the Building Code. Staff in the Department of Community Development will review the plans for compliance with zoning and other relevant regulations. If the plans and specifications submitted with the permit application are determined to be in compliance with City ordinances and Codes, and all fees have been paid, a building permit will be issued.
Architectural and structural engineering certifications are required for most nonresidential construction. The certifying architects and engineers must be licensed in Iowa. Structural plans and specifications are reviewed by private engineers serving as consultants to the City, and their review fees will be included in the permit fee.
A site plan must be submitted for staff review and must be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council prior to construction of any new development except single-family detached residences. It may be possible to submit a permit application “at risk” prior to site plan approval, but a building permit cannot be approved until the site plan has been approved and any and all conditions of approval have been satisfied. This possibility should be discussed at a pre-application conference (see Site Plan process).
Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical permits.
Permits must be obtained for all electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work, and reviewed and inspected for compliance with the Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Codes.
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