Building inspector offers observations

I have been the building inspector for the city of McCook for approximately five months and have found the assignment to be not only interesting, but I enjoy coming to work each day. I have experienced satisfaction in the things I have been able to accomplish and in the way I am treated every day by the public, contractors, and fellow workers.

Building permits are required to insure that all construction is performed according to accepted building codes. These building codes were adopted for the safety and welfare of the citizens of McCook. The building codes were designed to protect the safety and lives of the people that are using the buildings. The codes have been developed by professionals over the course of many years experience.

Fire departments, insurance companies, and the general public depend on the codes to know that a building has been built to a safe and accepted standard. If changes, additions or alterations are performed without a building permit there are no assurances that it was done according to code.

Building permits are required for ALL types of construction, whether it is demolishing, remodeling inside, replacement of mechanical or plumbing, new siding, new roof or building a new structure. It you are going to perform any type of construction, PLEASE check with the building department to see if a permit is required.

Permits are not required for the following:

1). One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.

2). Fences not over 6 feet high.

3). Retaining walls which are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.

4). Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below.

5). Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.

6). Prefabricated swimming pools, which are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.

7). Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes.

8). Swings and other playground equipment accessory to one- and two-family dwellings.

9). Window awnings supported by an exterior wall, when not projecting more than 54 Inches.

10). Movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.

Before starting work that requires a building permit, you or your contractor must obtain a permit. If any work is started prior to obtaining a permit, a stop work order will be issued and a fine of up to $100, in addition to the permit fee, will be levied.

A building permit is good for a period of 2 years, and any work for which a permit is issued must be started within 90 days.

If you have any questions please call me at 345-2022 ext. 223.