Building Permits

 

Click here for online Permits and Applications

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Permits:

Q.         Is a building permit required?

A.       The City of Lake Worth is under the 2003 International Building Code and all but the following require a building permit to be pulled to do the work:

	One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.  (Building must be at least 5 feet from all structures and/ or property line/ fence lines.)
	Oil Derricks
	Movable cases, counters and partitions, not over 5 feet, 9 inches high.
	Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height.
	Water tanks not over 5,000 gallons.
	Platforms, walks, and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below.
	Painting, papering, and similar finish work
	Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
	Window awning supported by an exterior wall of Group R, Division 3 and group U Occupancies when not projecting more than 54 inches.
	Prefabricated swimming pools not exceeding 5,000 gallons.

  Q.         What do I need to pull a building permit?

A.        The applicant must fill out a building permit application, which may be emailed, downloaded off of the website, or picked up in person from our office.  This application must be filled out legibly and in its complete entirety. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Then the applicant must provide a drawing or sketch of the proposed work that is to be done. It is preferred that the drawing be on a copy of the plot plan or survey so that property lines are depicted properly, however if a copy of the plot plan or survey is not available you may legibly draw a drawing of the proposed work. You may also use our "blank site plans" which are located on this website.  All dimensions, materials to be used and measurements need to be included on the drawing, please be detailed in your drawing. The application and drawing are then submitted to the building, zoning, and fire departments as necessary for review.

Q.         What is the time frame I am looking at to get a permit? 

A.         Standard review time for a permit is 10 working days. All reviews do not take the 10-day review time, but it is in place in case it is necessary.

Q.         What does a building permit cost?

A.         Building permit fees are based upon a percentage of the construction valuation. The Building Permit Fee Schedules is taken from the 2003 International Building Code and is used to obtain this permit fee.   The permit fee is due upon approval of the permit application.  Fees may be paid with cash, check, or money order.

Q.         What is required for a permit to be approved?

A.        For a permit to be approved, the proposed work must be in accordance with all mandated codes and City ordinances. Ownership of the property must be verified, all taxes must be current, no liens may exist against the property, and the property must be platted.

Q.         I have obtained a permit, but how long do I have to complete the work?

A.         An electrical, mechanical, plumbing ,or building permit is valid for 180 days. Extensions may be granted to the permit applicant to complete the work, if the request is made in writing and before the permit actually expires. Permits can be extended for an additional 180-days upon approval.  Fees may or may not be assessed depending on the case.

Q.         What codes is the City of Lake Worth under?

A.        The City of Lake Worth is under the following codes:

	2003 International Building Code (With NTCOG & Local Amendments)
	2003 International Fire Code (With Local Amendments)
	2003 International Mechanical Code (With NTCOG Amendments)
	2003 International Plumbing Code (With NTCOG Amendments)
	2003 International Residential Code (With NTCOG & Local Amendments)
	2003 International Energy Conservation Code (With NTCOG Amendments)
	2002 National Electrical Code (With NTCOG Amendments)
	1997 Uniform Abatement of Dangerous Buildings (With Amendments)

Q.        I want to build a carport. Are there any specifications that I have to meet to build one?

A.       A permit is required to build a carport your property. Specific specifications must be met in order for the permit to be approved. Please see Ordinance No. 652 for details.

Q.        I want to put up a fence on my property or I have a fence that needs repair.  What is required to do this?

A.         A permit must be pulled to put up a fence and is sometimes required to repair a fence. Please see Ordinance No. 550 for details.