What If I Don't Get a Permit?

Obtaining City permits helps safeguard everyone, keeping you and others physically safe. City permits are issued in accordance with:

• Building and Fire codes to help ensure everyone can leave a structure safely in the event of a natural disaster or emergency; and that a housing unit meets minimum standards for habitability.
• Zoning codes help ensure there are compatible land uses and services in close proximity to preserve public health and general welfare; and prohibit uses that are incompatible.
• City Standard Provisions and Details help ensure any improvements to public streets, sidewalks, and utilities conform to minimum standards to maintain, or enhance, service levels to residents and businesses. 

If you do building or roadway improvements or locate a business in a new space WITHOUT City permits, you create a safety risk for yourself or others. These activities may subject you to enforcement action and paying a fine(s), qualify your activity as a misdemeanor under City or State law, and you may have to demolish any unpermitted construction. Additionally, you also run the risk of potentially voiding, or conflicting with, your property insurance policy, violating a lease or rental agreement, or impacting the sales price of your property. 

If you are not sure if your project requires a City permit, please contact us!