Building Permit Requirements
Oct 23, 2006
Author: Chris Spencer

Building Permit applications are now required to have a plat of the lot, building, and all easements with set backs clearly marked. I am required to physically check the set backs on the property when the foundation footings are being built. Survey pins will need to be visible at that time as I will need to pull a string and measure the set back if needed. No permits will be allowed to proceed until these pins and setbacks have been checked. Water and Sewer Tap Fee’s are also collected at the time of the building permit for new construction. A new fee schedule consistent with the IBC based on square footage will be adopted for new construction building permits. City Council will discuss this issue beginning May 4th.



Inspections will be made according to the new Building Department Inspection Card. Twenty Four hour notice is preferred, but same day inspections are not uncommon, please call either way. Having your inspection card on site for me to sign off on is required. On remodels and alterations the inspection card must be on the front of the house accessible by me and in plain view of the street. On new construction, please place the card in a plastic Ziploc bag at the temporary power pole or on a 2x4 stuck in the ground. As soon as you are dried in, your permit card MUST be in a window facing the street. It is very important to have the final inspections on the projects. At this time we will check the final inspections, Water Meter number, remote number, and you will be issued a Certificate of Occupancy. A copy of the certificate of occupancy will be filed with the city clerk.



On April 4th, 2006 the City Council voted in ordinance #1256 updating Buffalo’s building codes. The new codes that will be followed and enforced are the 2003 International Building Code, 2003 International Residential Code, 2003 International Plumbing Code, 2003 International Mechanical Code, 1994 National Electrical Code, 1994 National Fuel Gas Code. You are required to have the new codes for the work that you do in your possession. A grace period ending on January 1, 2007 has been granted for you to get the books. I have several copies here for looking through. I also will be keeping a modest inventory on hand for sale. You can also find these books for sale online.