The purpose of this chapter is to exempt certain minor construction activities from building permit requirements while ensuring compliance with applicable safety, zoning, electrical, plumbing, and public works standards.
(Ord. 1059, 4/1/2026)
The following structures and improvements shall be exempt from building permit requirements, provided they comply with all applicable provisions of the City Code, zoning regulations, and State Building Code:
(a) 
Detached Accessory Structures.
(1) 
Residential detached sheds less than 200 square feet.
(2) 
Commercial detached sheds less than 120 square feet.
(b) 
Flatwork.
(1) 
Sidewalks.
(2) 
Driveways.
(3) 
Concrete slabs, patios, and similar flatwork provided that:
(A) 
The surface is not more than 30 inches above grade.
(B) 
The work is not constructed over a basement or occupied space.
(C) 
The work is not located within the public right-of-way.
(c) 
Retaining Walls. Retaining walls less than four feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.
(d) 
Fences. Fences six feet in height or less, subject to zoning requirements.
(e) 
Water Tanks. Water storage tanks 5,000 gallons or less.
(f) 
Window and Door Awnings. Awnings projecting 54 inches or less from the exterior wall.
(g) 
Decks. Decks that:
(1) 
Are less than 200 square feet, and
(2) 
Are not more than 30 inches above grade.
(h) 
Residential Roofing Replacement. Replacement of:
(1) 
Roofing shingles.
(2) 
Underlayment.
(3) 
Flashing.
No structural alterations are included in this exemption.
(i) 
Residential Siding Replacement. Replacement of:
(1) 
Siding.
(2) 
Weather barrier.
(3) 
Veneer.
(4) 
Flashing.
No structural wall modifications are included in this exemption.
(j) 
Lawn Irrigation Systems. Lawn sprinkler systems shall be exempt from building permits but must comply with:
(1) 
City of Connell ordinances.
(2) 
Cross-connection control requirements.
(k) 
Hot Tub/Aboveground.
(1) 
Are not more than 24 inches above grade.
(2) 
Do not require structural foundations.
(3) 
Comply with pool barrier safety standards.
(4) 
Meet applicable zoning setback requirements.
(5) 
Still requires permits for:
(A) 
Electrical permits.
(B) 
Grounding and bonding.
(C) 
GFCI protection.
(D) 
Electrical inspections.
(Ord. 1059, 4/1/2026)
Exemption from a building permit does not exempt work from:
(a) 
Zoning regulations.
(b) 
Electrical permits.
(c) 
Plumbing permits.
(d) 
Mechanical permits.
(e) 
Stormwater requirements.
(f) 
Right-of-way permits.
(g) 
Safety code requirements.
Where applicable, permits required under State law shall still be obtained.
(Ord. 1059, 4/1/2026)
Where electrical, plumbing, or other permits are required, applicable State Building Code Council fees shall still be collected and remitted as required by law.
(Ord. 1059, 4/1/2026)