Rules differ by place
Cities, counties and utility districts set their own permit rules. Nothing here replaces checking with the local permit office and the utility, which are the final word on your project.
Building and plumbing permits
New water and sewer lines on private property often need plumbing or utility permits, and an inspection of the open trench. Repairs are sometimes handled differently from new work, so ask.
Right of way and road permits
Digging in a public street, a sidewalk or a road edge usually requires a right-of-way permit, traffic control and sometimes a bond or deposit. Boring under a road has its own rules.
Utility tap and connection approvals
Tapping a water or sewer main requires the utility approval and fees. Electric and gas connections are scheduled with the provider. Ask early because some approvals take weeks.
Septic, wells and environmental
Septic systems are permitted by the health authority and need a soil evaluation. Work near streams and wetlands may need environmental approvals. Stormwater rules apply to larger sites.
How we help
We tell you which approvals commonly apply, prepare plans and information for the permit office and coordinate inspections. The owner or the contractor pulls the permit depending on the arrangement, and we agree on that at the start.
Ask the permit office and the utility early, and agree who pulls each permit before work starts.
