We're entering the public participation phase of our Effingham 2050 Comprehensive Plan project, and we're asking for your participation! A focus group meeting will be conducted pertaining to Emergency Services: Fire, Police, Emergency Management, Dispatch/Telecommunications, and Emergency Medical Services/Ambulance on Monday, December 9 at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall (201 E. Jefferson Avenue). Please plan to attend!

Building permits

We offer 2 types of building permits: 

  • Over-the-counter permits: simple permits you can usually get the same day.
  • Permits that require plans and review: permits for larger or more complicated projects.

Some projects don't require a permit, but you still need to follow all building codes and regulations.

Over-the-counter

These are simple permits you can apply for in-person at City Hall. Usually, you will get your permit the same day. There is no application form for over-the-counter permits. 

These include most types of:

To get an over-the-counter permit:

  • Visit the Building Official office at City Hall
  • Make sure you have:
    • Address of where the work will be done
    • Property owner’s name
  • Make sure the company doing the work is registered with the City
  • Bring any plans or drawings
  • Pay the permit fee by check, cash, or credit card

If plans and review are required

To get a building permit for most construction projects, we need to review your plans and application. Generally, you need to get a building permit if you do any of the following to a building or structure:

  • Change of use (example: office space changing into retail)
  • Construct
  • Enlarge
  • Alter
  • Repair
  • Move or remove
  • Improve
  • Convert
  • Demolish

This also includes swimming pools. Depending on the project, you may also need to apply for plumbing, electrical, or sewer tap permits.

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