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Building Safety

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1. What is a building permit?

A building permit gives you legal permission to start construction of a building project in accordance with approved drawings and specifications. By working with an expert code official, you will benefit from their knowledge of the building codes to ensure your project is constructed properly so it will be safe and structurally sound. Safe construction practices help protect you, your family, your friends, and your investment. We are here to assist you in any way we can.

2. What building codes have been adopted by the City of Rexburg?

The 2009 International Codes which include:

• The International Building Code, (IBC)
• The International Residential Code, (IRC)
• The International Mechanical Code, (IMC)
• The International Fuel Gas Code, (IFGC)
• The International Energy Conservation Code, (IECC)
• The ICC/ANSI A 117.1 - 2003 Accessibility Code

Current Plumbing Code:

• The 2006 Uniform Plumbing Code

Current Electrical Code:

• The 2008 National Electrical Code

3. What is the purpose of the building codes and permits?

There are several purposes of the building codes permit process. Some of these are:

• Insurance rates may be lowered. In areas without the codes, substandard building construction results in the increase of fires due to inadequate clearances, the improper use of materials, and other oversights.
• Property values are much higher in well thought out, safe communities.
• The codes ensure that minimum construction standards are met, providing a safe environment for you, your family, and friends.
• Zoning standards are met and setbacks are provided to protect you from fire hazards, inappropriate building locations, and other nuisances.
• Building values are ensured by following the building codes and permit process. Conducting inspections after the structure has been built are almost impossible and cannot ensure the building was properly constructed.
• If the structure was not built according to the codes some flood insurance and housing loans may be denied.

4. When do I need a permit?

Call the Community Development Department at (208) 372-2341.

Permits are usually required for the following projects:

• All new buildings (except for tool sheds under 120 square feet) and additions (bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms etc.)
• Residential work (decks, garages, fences greater than 6’, etc.)
• Renovations (garage conversions, basement finishing, etc.)
• All electrical system work
• All plumbing work
• HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air condition systems) replacement or new system upgrades

5. What are the benefits of having a building permit?

With a permit your investment is inspected and therefore should be in compliance with the building codes. Interested parties will know the project is safe and built correctly.

6. How do I get a building permit?

Come in to City Hall at 35 North 1st East and fill out a building permit application. Bring with you the following:

• A site plan of the project. This drawing must be to scale and large enough to view easily. (Note: the Planning and Zoning Department may need to review your location and zoning for approval.)
• Two copies of your building plans are required and four copies of site plans, if applicable.
• Energy calculations must be submitted with your plans. Fill in the applicable areas of the program. If your project fails, some alterations may be required.
• If all is in order then a permit will be issued. You may be required to submit additional information before a permit is issued.

7. Will I need to be at the project when the inspector inspects?

No, you are not required to be present for the inspection. An appointment is recommended to make sure that the project is ready for inspection. Before the inspection unlock doors, provide ladders, etc. An inspection ticket will be left at the site with the discrepancies noted. A disapproval will require another inspection after corrections have been made.

8. Is there a cost for the inspections?

No, the costs have already been paid with your permit fees. An additional fee may be required for several repeat inspections of the same discrepancy.

9. Can I build a shed on my property and will I be required to get a permit?

A tool shed with an area up to 120 square feet can be built on your property without a permit in any part of your backyard. Sheds larger than 120 square feet require a building permit and must meet zoning requirements.

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GIS

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1. What is GIS?

A geographic information system (GIS) gives spatial context to data associated with a physical location. GIS eliminates the need for time-consuming spatial analysis using transparencies and side-by-side visual comparisons. From emergency services routing to comprehensive planning, GIS provides decision makers with powerful tools and information.

2. How do Madison County and the City of Rexburg use GIS?

The GIS Department publishes a series of Standard Publications on a semi-annual basis. These maps provide basic information about Rexburg and Madison County to elected officials, employees, and the public. And because GIS goes well beyond paper maps, Madison-Rexburg GIS also maintains an Online Mapping System for public use.

3. What if your Standard Publications don’t show me what I need?

Madison-Rexburg GIS maintains other datasets that are not necessarily included in our standard publications. Many of these datasets, like parcels for example, are viewable on our Online Mapping System. The maps you create online can be saved and printed. More customized maps as well as larger-scale printouts of such maps are available by visiting city hall and filling out a map request form.