Why Building Permits & Inspections Matter

One of the biggest concerns when starting an assisted living facility is investing hundreds of thousands—if not millions—into a property, only to be blocked by city inspections or denied a Certificate of Occupancy at the final stage. This guide will walk you through the building department process, how to classify your project correctly, and what permits you need to avoid costly mistakes.

Step 1: Understand the Role of the Building Department

Once you've cleared zoning requirements with the city’s planning department, the next step is working with the building and permits department. Unlike planning and zoning, which determines where you can build, this department governs how you can build or modify an existing property.

New Construction: Requires full plan submissions and engineering approvals.

Renovations & Remodels: Requires permit approvals, inspections, and compliance with city codes.

Your goal is to ask the right questions early so that you don’t waste time or money on a project that won’t meet city requirements.

Step 2: Meet with the Building Department in Person

Just like when meeting with the planning department, it’s best to visit in person rather than relying on phone calls or emails. In-person meetings allow you to:

✅ Get real-time feedback on your project classification.
✅ Clarify permit requirements before making offers on a property.
✅ Ensure your project is feasible before investing in construction or renovations.

When visiting, start by describing exactly what you plan to do:

Are you building from the ground up?

Are you purchasing an existing home and converting it?

Are you making structural modifications to an existing building?

Then ask, “How do you classify my project?”

This classification determines which permits you need, how many beds you’re allowed, and whether you fall under residential, institutional, or commercial regulations.

Step 3: Identify Required Permits & Inspections

Once you know your classification, request a complete list of required permits. These may include:

For Renovations & Remodels:

✅ Demo Permit – Required for removing walls, ceilings, or structures.
✅ Framing Permit – If modifying walls, adding rooms, or changing layouts.
✅ Electrical & Plumbing Permits – If updating wiring, outlets, pipes, or HVAC.
✅ Occupancy Permit – Ensures compliance before opening.

For New Construction:

✅ Architectural & Structural Plans – Often needed for approval.
✅ MEP Plans (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) – Required for complex systems.
✅ Fire Safety & Sprinkler Permits – Determines fire suppression system requirements.
✅ Utilities & Sewer Connection Permits – Ensures access to essential services.

Ask if the city has an online permitting system or if applications must be done in person.

Step 4: Determine Building Code Compliance

Each city follows different building codes.
Ask:

What version of the building code is being used? (2022, 2018, or older?)

Are there state-specific requirements for assisted living facilities?

What are the minimum room sizes, hallway widths, and egress requirements?

These codes affect:
✅ Bedroom sizes (e.g., minimum 10x10 ft in Texas)
✅ Bathroom-to-resident ratios
✅ ADA accessibility & fire safety compliance

You need to follow both city requirements and state licensing rules for assisted living facilities.

Step 5: Plan for Utility & Infrastructure Needs

Ask the building department about utility requirements:

🚰 Water Supply – Is there enough pressure for fire sprinklers?
💡 Electricity – Will you need a transformer upgrade for HVAC units?
🚽 Sewer or Septic – Can you connect to city sewer, or must you install a commercial septic system?

Understanding these factors in advance helps you budget appropriately and avoid unexpected costs.

Step 6: Prepare for the Fire Marshal’s Inspection (Next Step)

After securing building department approvals, you must meet fire safety regulations. The fire marshal has the power to:

❌ Block your project if safety requirements aren’t met.
🔥 Require expensive upgrades, like full fire suppression systems.
🏢 Determine whether your facility falls under residential or commercial fire codes.

Next up: We’ll cover how to navigate fire marshal approvals to ensure your project is compliant and financially viable.

Final Thoughts: Avoid Costly Mistakes

Navigating the building department is one of the most critical steps in launching an assisted living facility. Failing to get proper permits and approvals can result in:
❌ Expensive project delays
❌ Losing thousands on an unusable property
❌ Being denied an occupancy permit after construction

Next Steps:

​🚀 Join us in the next guide to learn how to work with the fire marshal for compliance.

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