Building Permits in Phelan, CA: A Homeowner’s Guide
Updated: Aug 5
There are many reasons why a homeowner would be apprehensive of the idea of a permit.
This is understandable
You may be thinking about opening up your kitchen, adding on to your home, updating that bathroom, building a garage, or just finally starting that project you have been dreaming about for years. The last thing you want is for your project to be unnecessarily complicated
Permits are not supposed to do that
Permits are supposed to ensure the project is done safely and to code.
They are also a great way to ensure the project is done right, and to your specifications
Homeowners in Phelan should know about the process before beginning their project
Why Building Permits Matter
A permit is a type of approval that allows for work to be done on a structure
This is used by the appropriate authority to ensure the project is done according to standards pertinant to the work being performed.
These can include structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, energy, fire, and other requirements.
While it is easy to think of permits as a mere formality for a seemingly simple project, there is more to most jobs than one would think.
The work being done on a project can have a great effect on the structure or safety of the home.
Adding on a bathroom requires one to consider the plumbing, electrical, and structural requirements of the job.
A room addition may require considering foundation, framing, roofing, insulation, electrical service, and connections to the home.
A kitchen remodel may require walls, cabinetry, appliances, plumbing, electrical, and layout among other things.
The permit process allows for a project to be reviewed before beginning, and inspected as it is done.
Does My Phelan Project Need a Permit?
It depends on the work being performed.
For unincorporated Phelan, the San Bernardino County Building and Safety handles most building permit requirements.
County recommends permits and inspections for additions and alterations to structures, as well as many other types of structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and repair work.
Projects that may require permits can include room additions, garages, enclosed patios, carports, roofing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, pools, spas, demolition, and other work.
This does not mean all smaller jobs are exempt, as well as jobs that may require plans, permits, inspections, or multiple approvals.
Requirements may vary depending on the job, property, location, and other factors.
It is best to confirm before beginning, rather than assume a permit is not needed.
Room Additions Usually Require Permits
A room addition is one of the clearest examples of a project that will require permits. While it seems simple to just add square footage to a home, the addition can require foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, hvac, insulation, windows, roofing, drywall, and many other things.
San Bernardino county recommends a building permit to add to an existing building or structure such as a room addition. Plans and supporting documents must be reviewed and approved before beginning the project.
This is necessary because a home addition must tie into the existing structure.
It must have the proper foundation and support, as well as meet the requirements of the project, as well as look good once completed.
A well thought out project can lead to years of enjoyment, as well as increase the value of your home. A poorly planned and executed one could lead to years of headaches.
What Happens During Plan Review?
The plan review is when the documents are examined for approval before the permit is issued.
Depending on the project, these can include plans, drawings, site specs, calculations, and other requirements.
The purpose of the plan review is to make sure the work being proposed will meet the requirements of the home and project.
For larger jobs, this can include a review of structural, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, energy, fire, zoning, setbacks, and other requirements.
That seems like a lot, but it is much easier to make changes and ask questions before a project begins rather than after it is all said and done.
Having a set of plans can also prevent the need for revisions and delays down the road,
as well as confusion stemming from missing details that may need to be addressed before work can begin .
This is why planning is so important.
Building Permits and Inspections Go Together
A permit is just one part of the equation. In most cases, inspections are required throughout the project.
They are there to ensure the work is being done safely and to code, before being hidden and/or moving on to the next step.
These can include inspections of framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, insulation, and other items depending on the work being performed.
It is not about stopping the project, but rather ensuring the work is being done right so the project can be completed safely and without issues.
A final inspection is typically required to finish the process and make sure everything was done properly.
Why Starting Without a Permit Can Create Bigger Problems
Some people think getting permits for their project is a hassle.
Unfortunately, this can sometimes create more problems in the future.
Unpermitted work can come back to haunt a homeowner when it is time to sell or refinance the home, make an insurance claim, or even start another project.
It can also mean elements of the job were not inspected, which can be an issue if there are problems later on down the road.
This is especially true for things that were done behind walls or other structures that can hide the work.
It is much easier to start a project the right way than it is to troubleshoot problems that could have been easily avoided.
The Role of a General Contactor
A qualified general contractor can make all the difference when it comes to a remodeling or building project.
The right professional will understand the project, what it entails, what is needed, and how best to communicate regarding the work being done.
At Eagle Mountain General Construction, we believe a great start to a project is understanding what the client is looking to do.
That means discussing the homeowner’s wants and needs before we talk about finishes and timelines.
We need to understand what they want to change and why.
From there, we can help them think through the scope of work, layout, materials, and planning that has to go into making the project reality.
Whether that means a kitchen or bathroom remodel, room addition, roofing, concrete work, or something else, we believe it is always best to start with the right information.
Questions to Ask Beforehand
Before beginning a project, it is always best to ask questions.
What work am I planning to do?
Will the project involve structural, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical changes?
Do I need plans before beginning?
Are there setbacks or other conditions that may affect my project?
What inspections are needed?
Who will be managing the work and communicating with the proper agencies?
These are all great questions to ask, and are important considerations to take into account before beginning your project.
These can help make a seemingly daunting process a lot more managable
Get Current Info Before You Build
Requirements can change, which is why it is always best to consult local authorities before beginning your project.
San Bernardino County Building and Safety can help answer questions about permits, plan review, applications, inspections, fees, and the online permit process.
It is always best to take the time to research before beginning your project.
It can make all the difference in the process.
Ready to Plan Your Phelan Project?
A permit should not stop you from planning the home of your dreams.
With the proper planning, it is just one step in a process that can ensure the safety of your home and investment.
If you are thinking about a remodel, room addition, custom cabinets, concrete work, roofing, or other project in Phelan, Eagle Mountain General Construction is here to help you explore your options.
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