South Lake Tahoe Building Division: Permits
The South Lake Tahoe Building Department is your destination if you have some work that needs to be done around the house or you decided recently that you want to build on a lot or take advantage of that extra coverage, you will want to visit the City’s building division to get your permit. However, there are a few kinds of permits to choose from and you will need to know which one best suits your needs.
Over The Counter Permits
While some permits require a review plan, some can be processed in as short as 20 minutes and given to you right over the counter. These require only a couple of inspections and hold a six month shelf life before they expire. These permits are good for reroofing, force air units, water heaters, fireplace, electrical meter change out, driveway encroachment permits or a window replacement. Demolitions can also be given over the counter permits, however there needs to be proof of 50$ of recycled material and it has a 30 day expiration. The process for this one is fairly easy. You will need your permit worksheet and permit plan review application.
Over The Counter Plan Review Permits
These permits can be done over the counter, but need a plan approval from an inspector or a building official. These must require less information than what is necessary for a plan check and also be TRPA QE. The Over The Counter Plan Review Permits are good for kitchen and bathroom remodels, adding appliances, adding or moving electrical, the addition of windows, removing and replacing stairs and decks. You will need a permit/plan review application, 3 sets of plans, unless you are in the Tahoe Keys and then you will need 4 and more.
Plan Check Permits
For the more complex permits, a Plan Check permit is needed in addition to engineering and code requirements. This permit comes with a plan check process that must be finished before a permit is issued. This can take up to 6 weeks and must be completed within 6 months. These permits are good for commercial tenant improvements, decks and stairs, fire alarms, additions, fire sprinklers or suppression systems, new commercial building, alterations, new single family dwelling or new multi family dwelling. Required documentation includes a permit worksheet, permit/plan review application, encroachment form, TRPA application, 2 sets of BMP calculations and more.
The cost to obtain a permit is generally $100 although can increase depending on the load of work that needs to be done. In order to get a better idea of the cost, fill out the estimated fee worksheet here. For more information on these permits in relations to your real estate transaction, call us at 530-577-0389.
