Building Information

Building Permit Applications & Submittal Requirements

A permit is required for any construction that physically changes or adds structure to a property or for work regulated by city codes or ordinances. 

Apply For Permit

A list of building permit applications, submittal requirements, and guidelines is available on our Building Permit Application page.

Permit Costs

  1. Fee Schedule (PDF)
  2. New Construction Permit Fees (PDF)

Review Process

No construction is allowed until the permit is issued. Once the permit application and accompanying plans have been submitted, it will take approximately five working days to review residential applications and about 10 working days or more, depending on the project scope, to review commercial applications and to process the plans. Following approval of the plan and payment of fees, a permit will be issued.

Inspections

The type and number of inspections depend on the project. 48 hours' notice is required. Our Inspection line is 515-963-3533.

Climatic & Geographic Design Criteria

  • Ground Snow Load: 30 PSF
  • Flat Roof Snow Load: 24 PSF
  • Wind Speed: 90 MPH
  • Seismic Design Category: A
  • Frost Line Depth: 42 inches

Contractor Updates  

Annually, the city holds a meeting to update contractors on upcoming code changes, changes to department policy, and discussions on permitting, fees, inspections, construction, and common field practices to code requirements.

Updates for Contractors 

  1. 2022 Contractors Meeting PowerPoint Presentation (PDF)
  2. 2021 Contractors Meeting PowerPoint Presentation (PDF)
  3. 2020 Contractors Meeting PowerPoint Presentation (PDF)
  4. 2019 Contractors Meeting PowerPoint Presentation (PDF)

Cold Weather Concrete Policy 

The Cold Weather Concrete Policy (PDF) reflects the standard of care required to place and cure concrete, masonry mortar, and grout when the temperature drops below code and standard practice temperatures as identified in the adopted building code and referenced guidelines.

National Weather Service Forecast Office Point Forecast: Ankeny IA