Do You Need a Permit to Pour Concrete?

When it comes time to install a new patio, walkway, or driveway, you may be wondering if you need a permit to pour concrete. The short answer? It depends. Various factors can determine if you need to pull a permit, and regulations differ based on location, so it’s always best to verify if you need a permit before you start pouring concrete to avoid fines, citations, and even difficulty selling your home in the future.

Factors That May Affect Permit Requirements               

Size 

In many places, local governments may restrict the size of features like patios, driveways, and retaining walls. Some areas may limit the width, length, or height of these features, so you’ll want to ensure you’re staying within the legal guidelines. In addition, if your home is governed by an HOA or board, these organizations may have rules of their own.

Height

Pouring concrete for a ground-level feature like a patio or walkway is less likely to require a permit than a raised structure. Many municipalities require a permit for anything over 30 inches off the ground. 

Excavation

You’ll likely need a permit if your concrete project requires excavation. Excavation requirements can be stringent to ensure safety, structural stability, and the protection of underground utilities. Excavation permits can cost anywhere from $50 to $400, depending on your municipality and the type of work being performed.

Local Restrictions

Even in municipalities that don’t require a permit for certain types of concrete work, you may need to pull one if your home is in an environmental protection zone. These areas have requirements regarding what work can be performed due to specific environmental conditions and concerns.

Enclosure

An open concrete patio at ground level may not need a permit, but if you’re building an enclosed or covered patio, you’ll probably need to pull a permit since the structure will then be subject to local building codes. 

What Types of Concrete Work May Require Permits?

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Patio

In most places, pouring a small, ground-level patio will not require a permit as long as excavation is not required. Verify local patio size and placement requirements before getting started. Concrete patios cost between $15 and $30 per square foot, so permit fees may affect your budget.

Walkway

Concrete walkways fully contained within your property lines don’t usually require a permit, but some municipalities may have local restrictions requiring any concrete work to be permitted. Installing a concrete walkway can range from $850 to $3400, so confirm if you need to factor the permit cost into the total project cost.

Driveway

Municipalities often restrict driveway size and placement, and many driveways will require excavation, so you’ll likely need a permit before starting work. If you hire a concrete contractor, the cost of a concrete driveway will likely include permit fees. 

Steps

Concrete steps are subject to building codes and almost always require a permit. New concrete steps cost an average of $3500, including the cost of a permit. 

How to Verify if You Need a Permit

Check With the Local Zoning or Building Authority

Before starting work on any concrete project, contact your local zoning or building authority to uncover any requirements and restrictions that may affect your project. It’s better to be sure of permitting rules before beginning your project instead of running into problems like fines or citations after you’ve poured the concrete. 

Ask Your Contractor

If you’re working with a local concrete company, they’ll be able to let you know whether the job requires a permit or not. In most cases, your contractor will pull the necessary permits for the work and ensure everything follows the proper guidelines.