Do I need a Permit?

Residential Pergola

A pergola is a framework supported by columns that uphold a grid with beams and rafters. Pergolas are often found attached to homes or standing freely in gardens.

Permit Required Record Type:

• Detached: Residential Accessory Structure
• Attached: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Residential Patios

A patio is a ground-level outdoor living space, typically constructed of materials such as concrete, stone, pavers, or brick. It is usually uncovered and directly adjacent to a residential structure

*Although a Building Permit is not required a Standard Grading Plan Application may be required based on the size and disturbed area

Permit Not Required

Residential Fence

A residential fence is a structure built to enclose or define the boundaries of a residential property, providing privacy, security, and aesthetic value. It can be made from materials such as wood, vinyl, metal, or chain-link. Fences over 6 feet tall, fences on corner lots, and fences located on waterfront properties require a permit.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Decks (Detached)

A detached residential deck is an outdoor structure, typically made of wood or composite materials, that is built separately from the principal structure. It is not physically attached to the house or other structures on the property. Detached or freestanding decks that are less than 200 Square Feet with a maximum height of under 3’ may not require a permit if the property is located outside of the Critical Area or Bog Contribution Drainage Area.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Non-Residential Retaining Wall

A Non-Residential Retaining Wall is a structure built to hold back soil, prevent erosion, or create level surfaces on commercial, industrial, or institutional properties. All retaining walls OVER 24” require a permit.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Retaining Wall Permit

Non-Residential Racking

Non-Residential Racking refers to shelving or storage systems designed for commercial, industrial, or institutional use, typically installed in warehouses, distribution centers, retail spaces, or manufacturing facilities.

*This record requires an existing and established tenant that has already obtained a certificate of occupancy.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Alteration Permit

Non-Residential Pavilions and Playgrounds

A Non-Residential pavilion is a freestanding, open-sided structure, typically with a roof, designed for recreational, public, or event spaces.

A Non-Residential playground refers to an outdoor recreational area equipped with various play structures, such as swings, slides, and climbing equipment, designed for children’s recreation.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential New Structure, Addition, Accessory Structure Permit

Non-Residential New Structure

A Non-Residential New structure is any newly constructed building or facility that is not intended for residential use, meaning it is not designed or used for living purposes.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential New Structure, Addition, Accessory Structure Permit

Non-Residential Living Shorelines

A non-residential living shoreline is a naturally based, environmentally sustainable approach to shoreline stabilization, typically implemented on commercial or public properties.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Pier Bulkhead Revetment Permit

Non-Residential Generators

A Non-Residential Generator and Pad refers to a power generator installed for commercial, industrial, or institutional purposes, along with a supporting pad or foundation.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Alteration Permit

Non-Residential EV Chargers

Non-Residential EV chargers are electric vehicle (EV) charging stations installed at businesses, parking lots, or public facilities, to provide electric vehicle owners with the ability to charge their vehicles.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential New Structure, Addition, Accessory Structure Permit

Non-Residential Foundation Permit

A Non-Residential Foundation Permit is a permit issued for constructing the foundation only of a non-residential new structure.

*To request approval, email ipmailbox@aacounty.org

Permit Required (Requires Pre-Approval)

Record Type: Non-Residential Foundation Permit

Non-Residential Construction / Sales Trailer

A structure (trailer) used to accommodate temporary offices during the construction of a new structure 

*This Record Type requires an ACTIVE Building Permit prior to submission

Permit Required

Record Type: Temporary Trailer Permit

Non-Residential Addition

The construction of a new section or extension to an existing Non-Residential building. This expansion increases the overall square footage of the building, either by adding to the footprint (building out) or adding stories (building up).

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential New Structure, Addition, Accessory Structure Permit

Mobile Home Alterations and Additions

Altering or extending the home outward or upward, adding square footage to the existing structure, altering or expanding the usable area of a home outdoors via deck, porch, awning or exterior feature.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Mobile Home

A mobile home is a prefabricated residential structure built on a permanent chassis, designed to be transported to a site and used as a dwelling. Mobile homes are generally installed on a semi-permanent foundation once placed.

Permit Required

• Record Type: Mobile Home Permit

Driveway

A driveway is a private, paved or unpaved pathway that provides vehicle access from a public or private road to a residential or non-residential property.

More Information

• Although driveways do not require a building permit, they may require a Standard Grading Plan Application, Grading Permit and/or approval from the Department of Public Works (Right of Way)
• Standard Grading Plan Application
• The Department Of Public Works Right-of-Ways Division

Apartment Project

An apartment is a self-contained residential unit within a larger building, designed for independent living. Apartments are part of multi-family structures and share common facilities like hallways, stairwells, or elevators.

Permits Required

• Appointments are required for all Apartment related permits. To request an appointment, please send an email to ipmailbox@aacounty.org

Residential Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing involves the application of materials and/or sealants; installation of drains and possibly a sump pump to collect, remove and/or redirect water away from a basement.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Waterproofing Permit

Residential Carport

A carport is a roofed structure designed to shelter vehicles. It typically has open sides and provides protection from the elements, offering a convenient parking space without fully enclosing the vehicle. 

*Please note carports within 3’ of the principal structure are considered attached, otherwise, it is considered detached.

Permit Required Record Type:

• Detached: Residential Accessory Structure
• Attached: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Non-Residential Cellular Antenna

A device used for transmitting, receiving, and supporting cellular telecommunications or personal communications service.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Antenna Permit

Non-Residential Cellular Tower

A tower constructed for or an existing structure that has been adapted for the location of transmission antennae or related equipment to be used in the provision of cellular telecommunications services or personal communications services.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Cell Tower Permit

Residential Decks (Attached)

An attached deck is generally a wooden platform built above the ground and connected to the principal structure. It is generally enclosed by a railing for safety. Replacement of an existing deck, replacement of railings and the replacement of structural members does require a building permit. Replacing deck boards ONLY does not require a permit. 

*Please note that decks that abut the principal structure or are located within 3’ of the principal structure are considered attached

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Non-Residential Fence

A Non-Residential Fence refers to a fence constructed for commercial, industrial, or institutional properties, rather than for residential purposes. All commercial fences require a building permit.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential New Structure, Addition, Accessory Structure Permit

Residential Finish Basement

A finished basement refers to improvements to a basement to use as livable space.

*If window wells or areaways are being created to accommodate the finished basement, a site plan is also required.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Residential Fireplace

A fireplace is a built-in or freestanding structure designed for burning wood, gas, or electric elements to provide heat and ambiance within a home.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Fireplace Permit

Residential Garage

A garage is a roofed structure designed to shelter vehicles. It has closed sides and provides protection from the elements.

*Please note a garage within 3’ of the principal structure is considered attached otherwise, it is considered detached.

Permit Required Record Type:

• Detached: Residential Accessory Structure
• Attached: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Residential Gazebo

A gazebo is a roofed structure that offers an open view of the surrounding area; they are sometimes octagonal or turret-shaped. Most gazebos are free- standing and not attached to other structures. Gazebos that do not exceed 10 feet in height and have a floor area of 150 square feet or less do not require a building permit.  Permits are required for all Gazebos in the critical area.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Hot Tub

A large tub filled with hot aerated water used for recreation or physical therapy. All Hot Tubs require a permit.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Alteration

Construction or renovation to an existing structure that does not expand the existing footprint. This includes the relocation and demolition of walls, both load bearing and non-load bearing. If you are replacing drywall, permit requirements may vary.

*Please email IPMAILBOX@AACOUNTY.ORG providing your address and scope of work to see if a permit is required

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit (If alterations are within the principal structure) OR Residential Accessory Structure (If alterations are to an Accessory Structure)

Residential New Single-Family Dwellings

New Single-Family Dwelling (SFD): A newly constructed or rebuild of a stand-alone residential structure designed to house a single family.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Non-Residential Alteration

Altering or renovating in any way the existing structure of a Non-Residential building. All Non-Residential Alterations require an existing and established Tenant that has already obtained a certificate of occupancy.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Alteration Permit

Non-Residential Bulkhead

A seawall or rip-rap revetment is constructed along shorelines to control beach erosion. Construction materials commonly used include wood pilings, commercially developed vinyl products, large boulders stacked to form a wall, or a seawall built of concrete or another hard substance.

Permit Required

Record Type: Pier Bulkhead Revetment Work Permit

Non-Residential Demolition

The tearing-down of a Non-Residential building or exterior portion of a Non-Residential Building ONLY.

*For Non-residential interior demolition please email ipmailbox@aacounty.org

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Demolition Permit

Non-Residential New Building

New construction of a structure to be used as a business.

Permits Required

Non-Residential New Structure, Addition, Accessory Structure Permit

Non-Residential Pool

A Non-Residential swimming pool is a swimming pool not primarily intended for use by a single family and their guests at a private residence. It is typically associated with public or commercial settings like hotels, apartment complexes, clubs, or government facilities.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Swimming Pool / Spa Permit

Non-Residential Rip Rap

Rock or other material used to protect shorelines against damaging wave action and help prevent erosion. Rip rap is typically used to armor shorelines, streambeds, bridge abutments, foundational infrastructure supports and other shoreline structures against erosion.

Permit Required

Record Type: Pier Bulkhead Revetment Work Permit

Non-Residential Shell

A shell building is the new construction of a base building with minimum fixtures that allows tenants to build out the space to better fit their needs.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Shell Permit

Non-Residential Solar

A Non-Residential solar project is the installation of roof mounted or ground mounted solar panels on a non-residential structure or property.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Solar Permit

Non-Residential Tent

Temporary shelter structure used for special events, fairs, weddings, etc.

Permit Required

Record Type: Temporary Tent Permit

Non-Residential Pier

A Non-Residential pier is a structure that extends from the shore into the water and is used for commercial purposes, such as community use, launching, docking, and servicing watercraft.

Permit Required

Record Type: Pier Bulkhead Revetment Work Permit

Residential Pier

A residential pier is a private pier that is not associated with a marina, community, or government. A pier is a raised structure that extends into a body of water and is supported by pilings or columns.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Pool

A residential pool is a swimming pool that is only accessible to the residents of a single-family dwelling and their guests. A permit is required for all inground pools. A permit is required for all above ground pools over 36” in height.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Porches

A porch is a covered area that adjoins a residential building's entrance.

Permits Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Residential Bulkhead

A residential bulkhead is a shoreline structure built to stabilize and protect residential waterfront properties from erosion caused by waves, tides, or water currents. Bulkheads are typically constructed using materials such as concrete, steel, or vinyl.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Demolition

Residential Demolition is the tearing down or interior demolition of a residential structure.   

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit or Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Rip Rap

Residential rip rap refers to rock or other durable materials placed along shorelines to protect against wave action and prevent erosion on residential properties.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Solar

Residential solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity to power a residential single-family dwelling. Solar panels can be roof mounted or ground mounted.

*Removal of Solar Panels does not require a Permit; Removal and reinstallation IN KIND does not require a Building Permit but does require an Electrical Permit

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Solar Permit

Residential Retaining Walls

A Retaining Wall is a structure built to hold back soil, prevent erosion, or create level surfaces on a residential property. All retaining walls OVER 24” require a permit.

Permits Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Residential Roof Replacement and Repair

Roof Replacement and Repair refers to the process of replacing or repairing various components of a roof. Replacement of shingles ONLY does not require a permit. Replacement of both sheathing and shingles and/or Trusses requires a building permit.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Residential Shed

A simple one leveled roofed structure used for storage or other non-habitable purposes. Sheds that do not exceed 10 feet in height and have a floor area of 150 square feet or less do not require a building permit, except that permits are required for all sheds in the critical area.

*A shed within 3’ of the principal structure is considered attached and ALWAYS requires a permit.

Permit Required Record Type: 

• Detached: Residential Accessory Structure
• Attached: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit

Signs

Any writing, letter, or numeric work, pictorial presentation, illustration or decoration, emblem, device, symbol, trademark, flag, banner, pennant, or any other device, figure, or character utilized to advertise, announce, identify, or make known or attract attention. Portable, sandwich type, wind/revolving signs and signs that project or are attached to the roof of a structure are not permitted. A building permit is required for all other signs.

Permit Required

Record Type: Sign Permit

Residential Single Family Dwelling Addition

An addition is an outward or upward extension to an existing residential structure. Sunrooms and three season rooms are also considered additions.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Single Family Dwelling Permit (If addition is to the Principal Structure) OR Residential Accessory Structure (If addition is to an Accessory Structure)

Residential Stove Insert

A stove insert is a metal box that fits into an existing fireplace or stove opening to replace a wood fireplace. Inserts can be wood, gas, or electric, and are designed to improve heating efficiency and reduce emissions.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Stove Insert Permit

Non-Residential Tenant Improvement

A Tenant Improvement Permit is required for a new tenant to occupy a space in an existing building, even if improvements are not made. This may include moving into the space "AS IS" (no changes); reconfiguring the layout of a space; updating the finishes and fixtures, installing new equipment and technology, downsizing an existing tenant space, expanding an existing Tenant Space and changing a Tenant Name or Use. A Certificate of Occupancy will be issued and the space may be occupied once improvements are completed and all final inspections have passed.

Permit Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Tenant Improvement Permit

Residential Water Access Stairs and/or Trams

Water access stairs are structures designed to provide safe and functional access to water bodies, typically constructed on slopes or embankments to prevent erosion and ensure stability.

A water access tram is a mechanical or motorized system designed to transport individuals and items up and down steep slopes or embankments, providing safe and efficient access to water bodies.

Permit Required

Record Type: Residential Accessory Structure

Non-Residential Whitebox

A whitebox is an interior space that is minimally finished, not occupied, and typically includes basic elements such as primed walls (often white), a finished ceiling, concrete or unfinished flooring, basic lighting, HVAC, and essential utilities. It serves as a blank slate, ready for customization or tenant-specific build-outs. A whitebox does not include any improvements for a new tenant and excludes improvements for flooring, plumbing fixtures, interior walls, paint and wall coverings, electrical fixtures, furniture and other tenant specific equipment or office upgrades.

Permits Required

Record Type: Non-Residential Whitebox Permit