Call first before remodeling your home
-Building Safety week brings awareness to home improvement projects-

Is the montage of home improvement shows giving you the urge to do some home remodeling? Before picking up a hammer and knocking out a wall, call the City’s Planning and Development Services Department to get the right information on obtaining permits and scheduling the proper inspections.

Permits are required for room additions, walls, carports, decks, patios, in-ground and above-ground swimming pools, fences, re-roofs, and foundation repairs. They are also required for general repairs to siding, doors and windows. In addition, buildings that need to be demolished must have the proper permits and a detailed plan and schedule for demolition.

“It’s extremely important to get the proper permits so that City inspectors can verify the work was done correctly,” said Roderick J. Sanchez, director of the Planning and Development Services Department. “We want to ensure that your family and guests are protected and safe,” he added.

Citizens and contractors found working without a required permit will be fined and will be required to purchase the permit at twice the cost.

Some home improvements that do not require a permit include:

Although these projects do not require a permit, there may be restrictions on the design and materials used based on the type of district in which you live, such as a historical district.
 
To learn more, visit informational booths during Building Safety Week, May 4 through May 8 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Cliff Morton Development and Businesses Services Center, located on 1901 S. Alamo Street. Information on building safety, health permits, household hazardous waste, fire protection, and code compliance issues will be available throughout the week. To obtain permit information, call 207-1111.