The Construction - Permission(s) for Building a Home

It's important for you to understand what's involved in obtaining building-related permits. Some of the required approvals may be:

1. Zoning
   
   Zoning is often already established for vacant land, but many communities require a final check to make sure new construction will comply with current zoning regulations. Need a Builder? Over 18,300 Builders Nationwide. Search for a Builder in your Price Range by Area, City and community.View their Models, Plans, Available Inventory.
   
2. Wells and Septic Permits
   
   If your new home will be located in an area without public water or sewer services, a well will need to be drilled and a private sewage disposal system (i.e., a septic system) will need to be installed. Permits for the well and disposal system must be obtained from the appropriate state or county authorities. If your home will be connected to public water and sewer systems, applications for hookups to those services will be required along with a deposit and/or hookup fee for each service.
   
3. Building Permits
   
   A county or municipality typically will issue permits and inspect your new home during construction to ensure your home's compliance with local building codes. In addition to a general building permit, permits may be required for utilities (e.g., electricity and natural gas) and other services (e.g., telephone and cable television). You probably will have to remit a fee with each application for service. Some hookups will be needed during construction while others can wait until your new home is ready for occupancy.

Covenants recorded when a subdivision is approved for development may govern what can-and cannot--be built on those lots. Some covenants are very restrictive, while others are merely simple guidelines. Some covenants are fiercely enforced, while others are largely ignored. In any case, restrictive covenants must be considered and approvals must be obtained from the appropriate governing authorities before construction can begin. The required steps include:

1. Application - Each application may be very simple or quite complicated and may involve payment of a fee.
   
2. Plan Review
   
   A committee of homeowners within the development may have the right to review and approve the plans for your new home. These committees ensure that new homes comply with the established covenants and architectural guidelines. The committee's review could take a day, a week or several months.
   

Articles Courtesy of HomeBuilder.com