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Permits

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1. Why does the City of Miami have a Building Code?

Buildings and structures are where people live, work and play. They must meet certain guidelines for construction. The City of Miami has adopted the International Building Code 2015 to safeguard the lives of people. Without the code, people would build a structure whichever way they wanted. The result could easily be disastrous. Examples of poor construction would be building a house without a proper foundation, incorrect electrical, plumbing or mechanical installation, or lack of smoke and fire alarms. Additionally, without proper safeguards, structures would be built over building lines, over utility easements and into the rights-of-way. What would happen if your house was built over the sanitary sewer main and the main needed repair? What would happen if your pool was built over the sanitary or storm sewer, and your contractor punched a hole in the line? Or, what if you were installing a foundation or pool over a gas line or buried electrical lines and the equipment damaged the lines? The results of doing so could be disastrous and cost people their lives. The building code ensures compliance with life-safety requirements and basic construction standards, which in turn safeguards the lives of people.

2. What permits are issued by the Community Development Office for the City of Miami?

Building permits Remodel permits
Demolition permits Sign permits
Electric permits Storm Cellar permits
House Moving permits Mechanical permits
Plumbing permits Telecommunication permits
Floodplain permits
Permits

3. Why does the City of Miami require Building Permits?

All buildings erected within the city limits must be permitted. Buildings may not be placed over utility easements, in rights-of-ways or over the building line. This includes storage sheds, decks, pools, arbors, room additions, enclosing patios, tents, etc. Permit applications may be obtained by visiting the Utility Billing Office or the Community Development Office at City Hall, or by visiting the website at www.miamiokla.net. Permits Website Page

4. When is a building permit required?

Anytime you are adding to or removing the structural framework of a building due to remodeling, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing, changing the occupancy of a building, a fire restoration or similar situations, it will require you to purchase a building permit. If you are building or purchasing a detached structure to be located on your property for a garage, barn or storage purposes you will also need a building permit.

5. When is a permit not required?

Cosmetic work, such as minor repair work or redecorating does not require a permit. This includes replacing cabinets, replacing floor covering, painting and decorating, repairing sheetrock (interior walls only), replacing small areas of siding (if you are not also making structural alterations), replacing light fixtures and appliances (if you are not altering or replacing wiring).

6. What are the benefits of a permit?

Let’s say you want to add a few extra electrical outlets in the garage, and a mistake is made during the installation that later causes a fire. Is your insurance company going to cover the cost of a fire caused by illegal electrical work? One of the major benefits of obtaining a permit is having technical resources at your side, a certified building inspector. Your City of Miami certified building inspectors can work with you during your project. They can answer questions, provide guidance before you start your project, and save you time, money, and frustration.

7. How long does it take to get a permit?

Electrical, Plumbing & Mechanical are issued as soon as filed and fees are paid. However, new construction or remodeling may take up to 5 business days for residential and 14-28 business days for commercial.

8. What information will I need when requesting a Building Permit?

Complete the application, including contractor’s name, address and phone number, owner’s name, address and phone number, project address and plan drawings with measurements to the property lines on all sides of any new construction. The cost of the project is also needed. The names and state license number of any subcontractor for electrical, plumbing and mechanical work. Also, a floodplain determination form will need to be filled out even if you are not in a floodplain. The citizens of Miami have access to national flood insurance as long as we follow the guidelines FEMA has given us and a floodplain determination is required for all construction. Permits Website Page

9. Where is the Building Department located and what are the hours of business?

The Building Department is in the Community Development Office and is located at:
Civic Center
129 Fifth Ave. N.W.
Miami, OK 74354
The hours of business are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m.

10. What building, mechanical, plumbing and electrical codes has the City of Miami adopted?

2014 National Electric Code
2015 International Building Code
2015 International Fuel Gas Code
2015 International Mechanical Code
2015 International Plumbing Code
2015 International Residential Code

11. If I am a homeowner, may I do my own work?

Yes, but you still need a permit. Homeowners may obtain permits only when the property is owner occupied. Landlords may not do their own electrical, plumbing or mechanical work.

12. Is a permit required for a roof?

Yes, a permit is required any time there is metal roofing, decking or rafter construction. A permit is not required to replace or repair shingles only. You can only have 1 layer of shingles.

13. How many site plans are required for a permit?

Normally, 1 set. Floor plans are required for all remodel and additions.

14. Is there a cost for the permit?

Electrical, Plumbing & Mechanical is $54.00.
This is the cost of the permit and one (1) inspection fee of $50.00 and a state fee of $4.00.

Residential Building permits are $20.00 for the first $10,000.00 and $1.00 for each additional $1000.00 for the cost of the improvements on the project.

Commercial Building permits are $25.00 for the first $10,000.00 and $1.00 for each additional $1000.00 for the cost of the improvements on the project.

15. When do I pay for my permit and what forms of payment are accepted?

Payment for the permit is made before the permit is issued. The Community Development Office will call when the permit is ready. The City of Miami accepts cash, checks or money orders.

16. How long is a permit good for?

Permits are good for 6 months.

17. Where do I post my permit?

Post the permit card on the job site in a visible place at the front door or window.

18. Do I need a foundation for a detached structure I am building or if I am adding on to an existing structure?

Yes, a foundation is required for any structural building to be located on your property including additions to existing structures.

19. If I add on to my house, do I have to install smoke detectors?

Only if you add a bedroom on to the house, all smoke detectors must be brought up to code. They would need to be located in each sleeping room, the immediate vicinity outside of sleeping rooms and on each story of the dwelling. (This does not include crawl spaces and attics.)

20. Do I need a permit for decks and basement finishes?

Yes

21. When can I occupy my permitted home or business?

After a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued. All building and technical permits must be complete prior to use or occupancy. All referral agency sign offs shall be obtained prior to the Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion.

22. Why is a certificate of occupancy needed?

The inspection Department uses the Certificate of Occupancy (CO) for information to help identify potential hazards that may be encountered while responding to emergency calls by the Fire Department. The CO verifies that the structure conforms to the most current life and safety standards.

23. Can a portion of a building or structure be occupied prior to the completion of the entire building or structure?

A temporary certificate of occupancy can be issued by the Inspection Department under certain conditions.

24. What should be done with a certificate of occupancy once it is received?

The certificate of occupancy is required to be posted in a conspicuous location on the premises and shall not be removed except by the building official.

25. Is a permit needed for signs?

Yes, a permit is required on all signs. All signs have size requirements, which are listed in the Zoning Ordinances. Signs and banners may not be placed in the City rights-of-way, on city signs or on telephone/utility poles. Additionally, advertising signs must be placed upon the property where the business is located. City Zoning Ordinances

26. Is a permit required for a fence or accessory building?

The location, height and sizes of fences and accessory buildings are regulated and permits may be needed.

27. Is a permit required to replace an existing electric/gas water heater?

Yes