Code Enforcement / Building Department
The Director of Code Enforcement is responsible for the enforcement of all building codes and also acts as the enforcement officer for certain aspects of the zoning ordinances. The building official is the issuing agent for:
- Building Permits (Commercial and Residential)
- Certificate of Occupancy
- Demolition Permits
- Electrical Permits
- Receiving Housing Complaints, Landlord/Tenant Complaints & Property Maintenance Issues
Mold complaints are handled by the Fire Department. Contact Scott Lewandowski at (603) 524-6881.
Inspections
The Director of Code Enforcement is also responsible for building and electrical inspections, to ensure compliance with building codes and public safety.
Permit Information Center
The Department of Public Works issues the following permits:
- Plumbing Permits
- Driveway Permits
- Digging/Excavation Permits
- Utility Markout Permit
- Drain Connection Permits
- Sidewalk Encumbrance Permits
- Sewer Connection/Discharge Permits
Contact the DPW at (603) 528-6379 or click here: DPW
The Fire Department issues the following permits:
- Gas Permits
- Oil Piping & Appliance Installation Permits
- Fire Alarm Installation Permits
- Sprinkler System Installation Permits
- Wet & Dry Chemical Suppression Installation Permits
- Kitchen Suppression System Installation Permits
- Campfire & Brush Permits
Contact the Fire Department at (603) 524-6881 or click here: Fire Dept
The City Clerk's Office issues the following permits:
- Beach Parking Permits
Contact the City Clerk at (603) 527-1265 or click here: City Clerk
The Planning/Zoning Department issues the following permits:
- Short Term Lodging Permits
- Site Development Permits
- Sign Permits
- Conditional Use Permits
Contact the Planning/Zoning Department at (603) 527-1264 or click here: Planning/Zoning Dept
Do I Need a Permit? Click here to apply online.
PROJECT DESCTIPTION | PERMIT NEEDED | NO PERMIT NEEDED |
| New Residential Home | YES - Major Building Permit | |
| Residential Additions | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| New Commercial Building | YES - Major Building Permit | |
| Commercial Additions | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| Garages - Residential & Commercial | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| Interior Renovations* | Minor Building Permit | |
| New or Replacement Decks | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| Patios (Must be Pervious Stone) | X | |
| Sheds 150 SQ FT & Larger | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| Pools - Residential & Commercial** | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| Fences Under 7" Tall*** | X | |
| Replacement Windows | YES - Minor Building Permit (No charge permit) | |
| Vinyl Siding | YES - Minor Building Permit (No charge permit) | |
| Ramps - Residential & Commercial | YES - Minor Building Permit | |
| Generator | YES - Electrical Permit | |
| Mini Splits | YES - Electrical Permit | |
| Solar Permits - Residential & Commercial | YES - Electrical Permit | |
| Retaining Walls Over 4' Tall | YES - Minor Building Permit |
*Interior renovations over $1,000 of fair market value such as updating or replacing cabinetry, lighting or faucet fixtures, flooring, etc. require a Minor Building Permit.
**All commercial pools require state approval from the NH Department of Environmental Services. Call (603) 271-7108 for more information.
***Please contact the Zoning Department at (603) 527-1264 for specific fence regulations.
Still unsure? Give us a call at (603) 527-1293 or email us at codeenforcement@laconianh.gov.
NOTICE-CODE UPDATES
The City of Laconia has adopted updated building codes to be in line with the State of New Hampshire’s adopted codes (see RSA 155-A). The City has specifically adopted the 2018 Editions of the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Energy Code, and International Property Maintenance Code, along with the 2018 Edition of the NFPA/National Electrical Code. There are exceptions and/or amendments to some of these codes listed in Laconia Ordinance 119-9:B to address New Hampshire specific concerns.
Any questions or concerns can be directed to Joseph Gray, Code Enforcement Director at (603) 527-1293.