Frequently Asked Questions

Safety is the primary reason for requiring permits. City inspectors check to make sure construction and installations are done properly for the protection of your family and property, your neighbors or future buyers of your property.

• All construction, alteration or repair of buildings in the City of Fremont, or within the City’s 2-mile jurisdiction requires a permit. • A contractor can obtain the permit for the work; but it is the property owner’s responsibility to be certain that all construction has a permit. • Even if you are performing the work yourself, the permit fee is based upon the cost of materials and labor. The amount for labor is determined by taking half the cost of the materials. This will give you the total cost of the job relating to your permit fee. • All fences, sheds and signs require a permit regardless of the cost.

Painting, wallpapering and carpeting do not require permits. Additionally, sidewalks NOT in the City right-of-way do not require permits.

If your home was built prior to February 1, 1979, there were no flood proof basements. Therefore NO elevation certificate will be on file at the Building Department. Current elevation certificates should be obtained from a licensed surveyor. The City does not issue elevation certificates.