What if a contractor says I don't need a permit?

Permits protect you and your family by ensuring that work done at your property meets required building codes. That’s because our certified inspectors inspect all permitted work in the City to make sure it meets those codes. Furthermore, it is a violation of City ordinances not to obtain permits where they are required. Not obtaining a permit could result in a fine and require you to repair – at your own expense – any work that is not in compliance with required building codes. If any work has been covered, electrical wiring by drywall for instance, you will be required to expose the work for inspection.

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1. Can I take out a permit and have a friend do the work?
2. How do I obtain a permit?
3. How much do permits cost?
4. What types of projects require permits? What doesn't require a permit?
5. Are drawings required?
6. I'm not doing anything structural ... do I need a permit?
7. I'm only replacing counters and/or cabinets ... do I need a permit?
8. I'm just putting back what was there ... do I need a permit?
9. Does my project require approval from the Planning Department or does it need to go before the Architectural Board of Review?
10. What if a contractor says I don't need a permit?
11. How do I request a Building Permit inspection?