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1. When do I need a permit?

Whenever you are going to start a project, contact the Building Inspection Department to verify if permits are required. This will not only help in your decision making process, but also may save time and money by avoiding potential non-compliance with various City Codes and Ordinances. For more information, please call the Permits Department at (432)-264-2504.

• Any owner, authorized agent, or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation which is regulated by the technical codes, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permit for the work. Minor repairs may be made with the approval of the Building Official without a permit, provided that such repairs shall not violate any of the provisions of the technical codes.

Some projects that require permits include, but are not limited to:

• Roofs
• Fences
• Gas Lines
• Water/Sewer Lines
• Water Heaters, Water Softeners
• Swimming Pools, Spa
• Siding
• Remodels, Additions
• Decks/Porches
• Carports
• Accessory Structures (e.g. garages, storage structures, etc.)
• Demolition

Cosmetic projects that do not require permits include:

• House Painting
• Wallpaper
• Carpets
• Windows
• Doors
• Cabinets

2. Do I need a permit to build a carport?

Yes, a permit is required to build any structure on your property. All front, side and back yard carports require a permit. An application shall be submitted to the Permit Clerk, to be reviewed by the Building Official. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

3. Do I need a permit to have siding installed on my house?

Yes, a permit is required for the siding or covering the eaves of your home. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

4. Do I need a permit if I re-roof my house?

Yes, a permit is required to re-roof your house. The standard permit fee is $25 for the first $3,000 dollars. If you are a commercial contractor, then landfill fees will apply. Landfill fees are $46.92 per ton. You must have your building permit to dump at the City Landfill. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

5. Do I need a permit to change the water heater in my home?

Yes, a permit is required for the removal and installation of all water heaters and storage tanks do require a permit. This will ensure that pressure and temperature valves, gas vents, gas valves, gas lines, and drain lines are installed properly. On electric water heaters, a permit will ensure that the wire size and breakers are of adequate size as per Plumbing and Electrical Code. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

6. What if I want to encroach my front and side yard setbacks?

If you want to exceed your building line setbacks, you must make application to the Building Official. The application will be denied and at that point a meeting will be set for the Zoning Board to review the application. The cost for the meeting will be $50. This fee is non-refundable and will pay for the cost to send letters to everyone within 200 feet of your property line. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

7. What Technical Codes are currently used by the City of Big Spring?

2012 International Building Code
2012 International Plumbing Code
2012 International Mechanical Code
2012 International Gas Code
2011 National Electrical Code

Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.