Permit Process
When do I need a building permit?
Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit. A permit is required for the replacement of windows to confirm compliance with egress standards.
When is a permit not required?
Building permits shall not be required for the following. Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
- One-story free-standing ancillary residential structure such as a shed and children’s play structures provided such structures do not exceed 100 square feet in area and 10 feet in height.
- Fences not over 7 feet high.
- Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
- Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
- Sidewalks and driveways. The creation of a new driveway entrance from a street may require a street entrance permit.
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops, and similar finish work.
- Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches deep.
- Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a one or two-family dwelling.
- Window awnings supported by an exterior wall.
What information is needed to apply for a building permit?
Please see page two of the Residential Building Permit Application and the Construction Submittal Checklist for the required information.
There may be other permits and/or approvals needed from other departments within the Town or from state agencies, e.g., Planning Board, Public Works, and Zoning Board of Appeals, DEP, MDOT, or State Fire Marshall, prior to, during, or after issuance of a permit by this office.
How long does it take to get a building permit?
Generally, we can issue a permit within 2 weeks but depending on how busy we are that time could fluctuate. Please submit complete plans including all the information required by the Construction Submittal Checklist. We strongly suggest submitting a complete application as far in advance of the project as possible to avoid the potential for project delays. In addition, please be aware that expansions or enlargements of structures in certain situations may require additional approvals.
Do I need a permit to do electrical work on my own house?
Yes, you do need a permit to wire your own house and the work must be inspected and meet electrical code requirements. We strongly advise homeowners to consult and enlist the services of a licensed professional to pull the permits and complete the work.
Do I need a permit to do plumbing work on my own house?
Yes, you do need a permit to do plumbing work and the work must be inspected and meet plumbing code requirements. We strongly advise homeowners to consult and enlist the services of a licensed professional to pull the permits and complete the work.
How long do I have to complete my project?
Work must be started within 1 year after issuance of the permit. The permit will expire if the work is not substantially complete within two years from the date it was issued. The building inspector may issue a conditional certificate of occupancy or a permit extension for one additional year if, in their judgment, reasonable progress is being made and nuisance conditions do not exist. Permit extensions beyond one year require approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Which codes are used in the Town of Falmouth?
The Town of Falmouth enforces the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC) as adopted under state statute.
MUBEC is made up of the following codes and standards:
- 2015 International Residential Code (IRC)
- 2015 International Building Code (IBC)
- 2015 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
- 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
For more information, visit the Bureau of Building Codes & Standards website.
The Town of Falmouth also enforces the following additional codes and rules:
- Maine Internal Plumbing Rules
- The Maine Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules
- NFPA 211 - Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel
- NFPA 31 - Standard for Oil Burning Equipment
- NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
- NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code
When is a building permit required? (commercial/public)
A building permit is required for the following activity:
- Any construction, enlargement, alteration, or demolition of a structure.
- Any change to another use (may also require Zoning Board of Appeals/Planning Board approval)