The Building Inspection Division works with architects and contractors on building new buildings, additions and alterations. In additions, building inspectors work with homeowners in making home improvements like new homes, additions, and remodeling. Building Inspection is divided into these primary services:
Do you need a permit?
You do when a project involves:
- an addition or change to the exterior or interior of your house or building
- any type of electrical, heating or plumbing work.
Town Code and State Statute require permits. If you don't get one when you should, the Town will charge you a double permit fee and require all work to stop at the site until you obtain the proper permits. In addition, the Town can fine you for the violation for every day that the work is not in compliance.
Obtaining a Building Permit
Please follow these steps in obtaining a building permit:
- Apply for a permit at 1900 Grand Chute Blvd., between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday
- Submit Plans - Plans are needed for most projects other that repairs or replacements. If your project went before Plan Commission, additional building plans may be required.
- Wait for staff to review your plans - small additions, remodeling or garages can most times be reviewed at the counter. Staff will need more time to review other projects, especially new construction. Sometimes you will need subcontractor permits for electrical, plumbing, or heating permits. These permits must be obtained prior to subcontractor starting their work. Plan Review usually takes 5 working days.
- Pay fee and receive your permit.
- Do the work stated on the permit. You have two years to complete the work.
- Call for inspections as needed. The inspections you may need are listed on the inspections page.
Inspections
The Town Building Inspectors inspect many sites through out the day. It is important to call or contact the Building Inspectors to schedule the inspection you need. If you do not schedule the inspection, it may be 48 hours before the Building Inspector can inspect your site.
Certificate of Occupancy
If you are taking over a new tenant space, a certificate of occupancy will be required. For new buildings, the Town of Grand Chute requires an Occupancy Permit prior to you or a tenant occupying the building.
Do you need a permit?
The following list of common building activities can be used as a guide. If you have any questions, contact a building inspector.
For exterior work, you need a permit to:
- build or add-on to a house
- build a new garage
- build a new shed
- build a new deck
- replace siding on your house or garage
- install a new swimming pool -
- above or in-ground
- add a screened porch
For interior work, you need a permit to:
- move or create new interior walls
- install a hot tub or whirlpool
- alter a bathroom or kitchen
- install a new furnace, air conditioner or water heater
- install new electrical outlet(s)
- change the number of dwelling units
You don't need a permit for:
Inspections
The following is a list of required inspections in the typical construction order. Your project may not require all the listed inspections. Please use the list as a guideline for calling for inspections.
1. Temporary Construction Power - meter socket, disconnect and ground fault protected receptacles
2. Footing Inspection - footing formed and any reinforcing steel is installed, prior to pouring concrete
3. Foundation Inspection - foundations walls poured, drain tile, gravel and below grade insulation is installed
4. Underground Plumbing - underground or under slab plumbing is installed but prior to cover
5. Frame and Roof Inspection - all walls, floors, roof and other framing installed
6. Electrical Service - before permanent meter is set
7. Plumbing Rough - In - after the above ground plumbing is installed
8. HVAC Rough - In - after vent and duct work is installed
9. Electrical Rough - In - after wiring is installed
10. Insulation Inspection - after insulation is installed, prior to installing wallboard
11. Drainage Plan Inspection - after final grading at building and lot corners
12. Final Inspection - after all work on approved plan has been completed.