Which Outdoor Improvements Require a Permit?
Outdoor projects are a fantastic way to improve your home’s curb appeal, while simultaneously expanding your property’s usable space. Many homeowners opt to design and build their own outdoor living and landscaping projects without realizing that their exterior update requires a permit. In an effort to prevent you from wasting time or money on your home improvements, we’ve compiled a guide to shed a little light on permitting exterior improvements. If you are still on the fence about which outdoor project(s) to tackle, take a look at our blog post on the Top 10 Outdoor Projects with the Highest ROI.
What you’ll learn from the experts in this post:
Why are building permits required for some outdoor projects and not others?
How do I get a building permit?
What happens if I don’t get a permit when it’s required?
Do I need a permit to build a screened porch or deck in South Carolina?
Which outdoor projects *DO NOT* require a permit in South Carolina?
Why are building permits required for some outdoor projects and not others?
Building permits are a no-brainer for larger scale projects like new construction, additions, and renovations, but may be an afterthought for smaller outdoor projects like privacy fences and decks. In essence, building permits are required when there is any change to an existing structure, like additions, electrical, or plumbing, which could affect the overall safety of a home. This includes anything from retaining walls to new roofs, and everything in between.
As always, there are exceptions to rules. In South Carolina, there are multiple instances when permitting depends on size and height of the structure. Remember, even if a project doesn’t require a permit, it may still have to be submitted for approval. We always recommend looking at your county’s specific guidelines and consulting with a professional before investing time and resources into any home improvement project.
How do I get a building permit?
Navigating the permitting process can be frustrating, which causes some individuals to avoid the process altogether. Many general contractors, our team included, will pull the applicable permit(s) for your project as a part of their service.
A licensed and experienced contractor will be familiar with local and national building requirements, as well as the process to obtain the pertinent documents. Many counties provide the applications online, but require for them to be submitted in person at the appropriate permitting office.
What happens if I don’t get a permit when it’s required?
Best case scenario, you’ll be asked to pull a permit after completion to guarantee that the structure complies with building regulations. However, building without a permit could cost you much more than your time and money.
Here are 5 common consequences for building without a permit:
Incur a Fine
Your local government will require you to cease work until you acquire the appropriate permits. This typically comes with a daily fine as well as results in the county putting a lien on your property until they are paid.
Demolish Your Work
If an inspector finds that your improvements aren’t up to code, or compromise the safety of your home, then they have the right to ask you to demolish your work. In some cases, you have the option to hire a professional to correct your mistakes, but don’t be surprised if you have a difficult time finding a vetted general contractor who will take on a flagged project due to liability, bureaucracy, and inevitable complications.
Void Your Homeowners Insurance
Be sure to read the fine print! Your insurance company will most likely not cover any damages to your home incurred due to unpermitted work, nor will they cover any injuries on your property that occur during an unpermitted project.
Decrease Your Home’s Value
Most homeowners take on improvement projects to strengthen their home’s resale value. However, any “improvements” made without a necessary permit could end up decreasing your home’s listing price.
Put Your Safety at Risk
As annoying as the permitting process can be, the regulations exist to keep your home safe. From faulty electrical to subpar framing, there are a myriad of things that could go wrong if not installed or built correctly. You want to ensure that your home isn’t just safe for your family, but also any future homeowners as well.
Do I need a permit to build a screened porch or deck in South Carolina?
Yes, and most likely. Screened porches and decks are popular additions in South Carolina homes due to our long summers and mild winters. They’re also a great way to expand your home’s square footage without incurring the price tag of a formal addition.
However, screened porches always need a permit because:
They require a roof, which alters the structure and roofline of the existing home
They face a door and provide an exit
If you are adding a deck, you will need a permit if the structure is:
Higher than 2.5 feet off the ground
Measures more than 200 square feet
Attached to the home or faces a door
Which outdoor projects *DO NOT* require a permit in South Carolina?
Please note: The following information is taken from the Greenville Building & Permit Center. Please consult your local permitting office for specific information in your area.
Permits are required for so many improvements, we thought it would be easier to generate a list of outdoor projects that DO NOT require permits:
One story, detached accessory units (storage sheds, she-sheds, etc.) less than 200 sq. ft.**
Fences less than 7 feet tall**
Retaining walls less than 4 feet tall. (A retaining wall of any height that’s back-filled against requires a permit)
Sidewalks and driveways**
Swimming pools less than 2 feet deep
Swings and playground equipment
Decks less than 200 sq. ft. and under 30 inches high that are not attached to the home or face a door**
** denotes projects that still require application and approval prior to construction
In other words, yes. Your exterior project— whether that’s a screened porch, car port, new garage, swimming pool, or privacy fence— is going to need a permit.
Porch Addition Before and After
Please be aware that there are exceptions, variations, and technicalities to building rules, zoning, and permitting laws. It’s always best to consult your local permit office and/or a trusted local building professional before you take on any outdoor construction project. Oh, and don’t forget about your HOA. They will definitely have something to say! If you have an outdoor project that you want to tackle, but feel it’s out of your scope, contact Ashmore Builders today to set up your free, initial consultation!
