Building Permits Overview
! To view the status of currently submitted permits, please visit:
- Status of Residential Permits
- Status of Commercial Permits
In the City of Georgetown, building codes and ordinances have been enacted and amended by City Council when necessary to ensure good, safe buildings for the safety and welfare of the general public, owners and occupants of these buildings. Permits are the vehicles which the city uses to inspect all construction work as it progresses.
The property owner and contractor are jointly responsible for obtaining the proper permits, although the application and permitting process can be delegated to the contractor.
Why do I need a Building Permit?
Building Permits are required to erect, alter or enlarge any structure on your residential or commercial property. Permits are required for work ranging from new construction, remodeling, repair and additions, to new roofs, swimming pools, retaining walls, lawn sprinklers and signs. Whether building a new facility or adding on, a request for a permit must be accompanied with a site plan that shows the proposed work and its location in relation to property lines and existing buildings. Plan diagrams and specifications assist in determining if the project conforms to building and zoning regulations.
How do I obtain a Building Permit?
An application, which is available from the Inspections Department or online, must be submitted along with construction plans, survey or plot plan and other documents, depending on the scope of your project. Plans must be drawn to scale, dimension and of sufficient clarity to be read easily. All utility easements, building lines, and drainage easements must be shown. A complete checklist is available to help you determine all the required submittals.
How long does it take to get a Building Permit?
The amount of time varies based on the complexity of the work. Generally, you can expect Residential Building Permits to take up to 10 business days; Commercial Building Permits may take up to 30 business days. These estimates do not include the time required by the applicant to make corrections requested by the Plan Reviewer. Completed submittals move faster through the process.
Most Electrical, Plumbing, Irrigation, Heating and Air Conditioning Permits will be available over-the-counter from the Inspections Department.
How much will it cost?
Please refer to the Permit Fee Schedule for a comprehensive listing of fees.
Related Documents
Construction Permit Fees
Do I need an Inspection?
Permits are the first step in the City's building approval process. Inspections are the second step. Inspections are required throughout the course of a project to ensure that material used meets city standards and codes, that quality work has been performed and that the structure does not encroach on other properties or utility easements. The contractor must request that the city perform the proper inspections at the proper stage of work. A final inspection is required before the city will release the structure for occupancy. For a complete list of required inspections for each type of project, contact the Inspections Department.
