The benefit of calling an inspector to look at your home is that they are the foremost expert on permits and building codes. They'll be able to look at any unpermitted construction work and identify what — if anything — needs to change in order to secure the proper permits.
Various state regulations require contractors to pull permits. California, for example, mandates that anyone who works on your home must be licensed by the Contractors State Licensing Board (CSLB) if the project is over $500.
These are required for: Building or installing patios, decks or patio covers; chimneys; garages; ventilation, heating or air-conditioning supply or exhaust systems; swimming pools; and tool or storage sheds.
General Information. Homeowner permits are required for new construction projects, renovations, and any work that requires a building permit. Generally, homeowners' permits are not required for replacement in kind. Permits are valid for only one year and are not renewable.
Compliance with a notice of violation notwithstanding, the building official may request legal proceedings be instituted for prosecution when a person, firm or corporation is served with three or more notices of violation within one calendar year for failure to obtain a required construction permit prior to ...
However, there are certain requirements that your shed must meet in order for you to not need a building permit. In Virginia, your shed must be a one-story detached structure only used for storage or playhouse purposes. The maximum shed size without a permit in Virginia is 256 sq ft.
On a single-family house, most routine work does not require a permit. You can: Paint, add or replace carpet, tile or hardwood floors, replace cabinets, and even replace paneling and drywall without a permit. Replace your windows and doors, as long as you don't change the size of the opening in the wall.
Examples of work that would not require a permit would include: Installing or replacing guttering. Installing or replacing residential roof covering.
The quick and simple answer is: you usually don't need a permit if the shed is 120 square feet or less. In California, most jurisdictions have adopted the 120 square foot rule. If your shed area is larger than 120 square feet, it needs a building permit. If it's less than that, it doesn't.