You will need a permit if ...

by Arlene Shovald

Basically, anyone building or remodeling anything that involves electrical, plumbing or mechanical (heating and air conditioning) work needs a permit, according to Verl Curtis, Chaffee County building inspector.

Examples of projects which do not require perits are one story accessory buildings such as tool sheds, fences not over six feet high, platforms, walks and drives which are not over 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below, painting, papering and similar finish work.

Fees for building permits vary, depending on the project and whether it is new or remodeled. The Chaffee County Building Inspector's office also does inspections for building/ remodeling projects in all of the cities and towns in the county. Zoning, however, remains in the hands of the city governments. Zoning is involved more with the location and type of structure than with the actual work involved. For example, when someone wants to build or relocate a business, it would not be permitted in a residential area. Another example is a mobile home, which might not be allowed in a certain part of the citycity or town.

For information on specific projects, visit the Building Inspector's office on the third floor of the Chaffee County Courthouse in Salida. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The telephone number is 539-2124.