Building Inspection Department

WHEN IS A BUILDING PERMIT REQUIRED?

• For any Demolition
• For any Swimming Pool, except those that are dismantled each season.
• For any Renovation, Addition or New Construction
• For any substantive change that does not involve replacement in-kind, e.g. installation of vinyl siding over existing siding or in place of old siding.
• For any Plumbing unless it involves simple repairs of faucets or valves or clearing a stoppage. Plumber must be licensed by the State of New Hampshire.
• For any Electrical work when hired out - electrician must be licensed by the State of New Hampshire.

WHEN IS A BUILDING PERMIT NOT REQUIRED?

Minor alterations, repairs and general upkeep of existing buildings, e.g. replacement of in-kind roofing.

WHAT BUILDING STANDARDS APPLY IN HAMPTON FALLS?

The governing Building Codes in Hampton Falls are those of the 2000 International Code Council and the NFPA Life Safety Code.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR APPLYING FOR A BUILDING PERMIT?

In addition to the APPLICATION FOR BUILDING PERMIT, the following items must be brought to the Building Inspector, when applicable:

1. Plot plan showing building and wetland setbacks, septic reserve areas and well location.
2. An NH-DES approved septic system plan.
3. Complete set of building plans. (signed and stamped for structures over 2000 sq ft)
4. An approved Driveway Permit. (Approved by the Road Agent or the NH DOT)
5. A construction cost estimate for the entire project including septic system, well and driveway costs.
6. Electrical and Plumbing Permits are to be applied for by the installation contractors.
7. Oil Burning Equipment Permit is to be applied for by the installation contractor from the Fire Department, when applicable.
8. An NH-PUC approved Residential Energy Code Application.
9. All Planning Board pre-conditions, Zoning Board of Adjustment conditions and/or any state or federal permits must be completed to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector before a building permit can be issued.
10. Land use change taxes have been assessed and paid, when appropriate.

WHAT ARE THE LOCAL CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA?

• Ground Snow Load – 50 pounds per square foot
• Basic Wind Speed – 100 miles per hour; 3-second gust - 120 miles per hour
• Seismic Design Category - C
• Weathering - Severe
• Frost Line Depth - 4 Feet
• Termite - Slight to Moderate
• Decay - None to Slight
• Winter Design Temperature - Zero degrees F; also Climate Zone - 15 (International Energy Conservation Code); Heating Degree Days - 7000 -8499
• Ice Shield Underlayment - Recommended, two courses at eaves and in valleys
• Flood Hazards - see FIRM Map
• Maximum Building Height - 35 feet (average above finished grade)
• Maximum Height to Door or Window - 30 feet (average above finished grade)