Building Permits

A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of any building or structure within the City of Lafayette.   Additionally, a building permit is required to install new electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems or to make additions, alterations, or replacements to existing systems.  Some work that is exempt from a building permit includes:

1. One- story storage sheds under 120 square feet in area
2. Retaining walls under 3 feet in height
3. Sidewalks, driveways, and patios that are less than 30 inches above the adjacent grade and not part of an accessible route
4. Painting, wallpaper, flooring, cabinets/ shelving under 5 feet in height, countertops, and similar finish work
5. Window awnings that do not project from a residence more than 54 inches
6. Replacement of electrical devices or minor electrical repairs
7. Maintenance or repairs to a furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, mini-split unit, or other similar mechanical equipment
8. Maintenance or repairs to a water heater
9. Same size and style replacement of a sink or toilet
10. Repairing of leaks or stoppages in water or sewer piping

There are restrictions related to demolishing a building or structure that is 50 years or older. The Historic Preservation Board Review Team reviews all demo permits for structures 50 years or older. If it is determined that the building may have historical significance, the permit is referred to the Historic Preservation Board for consideration of a stay of issuing the permit. The Historic Preservation Board may issue a stay up to 90 days. The stay may be appealed to the City Council.

Types of Permits