Building Permit Information
The City of Portage has adopted the 2018 IRC residential building code.
Click the link above to view the codes, use the table of contents on the left to find the chapter or topic you are looking for.
You may go to the International Code Council website for information to purchase a copy.
Before applying for a permit, you are encouraged to review the appropriate building codes and City Ordinances.
When Is a Building Construction Permit Required?
A building permit is required to:
- Build, add-on, alter, or repair a structure
- Change the use of a building or structure
- Install new plumbing, electrical, or mechanical equipment
- Relocate plumbing, electrical, or mechanical equipment
- Demolish a structure or part of a structure
Project Examples
Generally, projects that do require permits include:
- Any work done within the 100-year floodplain
- All new construction of residential and commercial structures
- Sheds greater than 120 square feet in size
- Finishing a basement
- Any electrical re-wiring or plumbing changes made in a home or addition
- Changes in building use, such as changing a residence to a business office
- Changes in electrical service or service upgrade
- Fences over six feet in height
- Installation of in-ground or above-ground swimming pools or hot tubs
- Installation of lawn sprinklers
- Moving a mobile home into a mobile home park or onto private property
- Replacing an air conditioning and/or heating unit
- Replacing a water heater
- Installing a retaining wall over 4 feet high
- Installing an all new septic system
- Major repairs or alterations to existing septic systems
- Replacement or repair of sewer laterals or water service
Generally, projects that do not require permits include:
- New floor coverings
- Painting, wallpapering and plastering
- Pumping a septic tank
- Repairing drywall
- Replacing existing windows (providing the opening size is not changed)
- Replacing a light fixture or faucet
- Replacing a roof
- Replacing the siding of a home
- Utility sheds less than or equal to 120 square feet without electric. There are requirements for the placement of the shed. Contact the Planning and Zoning Division at 636-949-7335 for the setbacks.
Questions?
There are many more types of projects other than those listed above, some of which may or may not require building permits. If you have any questions, please contact the Building and Code Enforcement Division at [Insert link to zoning email] if you have any questions.
*Builders Book Inc. has donated the following IRC Quick Reference Cards for your online viewing. If you would like to purchase your own set of cards you can Get Them Here:
2018 IRC Quick Reference Cards
Click an image below to view each card set full screen
- Permit Application Forms
- License Application forms