Basic Permitting Information

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 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 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.