Not only is it the law, but building permits can also protect you. With a building permit you get the advice of reviewers and inspectors who will approve each phase of your project, checking to see that the work is done in accordance with the Building Code, zoning laws and the approved plans. Additionally, a building permit is required to show compliance with sanitary, safety and welfare concerns including required setbacks from property lines and adjacent structures.
Working without a permit, when one is required, can result in fines and can cause problems when you sell your home and probably more importantly, you lose the assurance that the work you’re paying for is built to code, a minimum standard for safety.