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The department has eight inspectors and three clerical support staff. Inspectors are certified with the State of Michigan.
Nationally recognized standards for enforcement have been adopted by the City: Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code, 2003 edition.
An Application for Plan Examination & Building Permit must be completed to obtain a building permit. At least three working days are needed for processing. Guidelines for specific projects are available on the Forms and Permits page. The following items must also be submitted:
- Copy of mortgage survey showing location of addition, fence, pool, shed or garage on property.
- Two copies of clear, legible and detailed construction drawings. NOTE: For new commercial or industrial construction, three sets of sealed architectural prints are required. Allow up to one month for review of these construction plans.
- For a new home, the homeowners permit application must include a notarized letter stating that the individual will live in the home for a minimum of six months after completion.
- Areas inspected prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy includes: structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing.
Instant permits are available to contractors with a signed contract for removing and replacing concrete, tear off and replacement roof, window replacements, and siding installation.
The Building Department also issues a Certificate of Occupancy for businesses, which assures compliance with City zoning requirements. An Application for Zoning Certificate and $180.00 processing fee must be submitted to obtain a valid certificate of occupancy.
The Home Resale Program requires a certificate of occupancy for residential dwellings. By submitting an Application for Home Certification Inspection and $180.00 fee, the Building Department inspects all structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing for compliance. Allow three to four weeks to schedule inspections. A second appointment is set up at the time of application to inspect any required repairs.
Print two copies for processing.
The Building Department is responsible for enforcement of City ordinances in the areas of noxious weeds, non-conforming signs, removal and prevention of blight, and property maintenance. Written warnings are issued to property owners in violation of City ordinances. If the problem is not corrected, a ticket is issued and the violator is required to appear in District Court.
NOTICES
Swimming Pool Safety
A new portable swimming pool, with or without a pump, is being sold in stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart, and more.
A swimming pool is any structure intended for swimming, recreational, bathing or wading that contains water over 24 inches deep. This includes in-ground, above ground and on-ground pools, hot tubs, spas and fixed in place wading pools.
All pools with water 24 inches deep must be permitted through the Building Department.
The permit is necessary to make sure all setbacks, clearances, electrical requirements and enclosure requirements are met.
The codes for pools have been enhanced in the last few years due to the large number of deaths by drowning of small children.
Rubberman Sheds
A permit is required the same as any other shed. A ratwall is also required under these sheds to prevent critters from burrowing underneath.
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