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Occupancy Permit Prior to leasing or purchasing a location for your business, individuals should contact James Bradford, city building inspector, who will perform a preliminary walk-through of the site to insure the building conforms to city and state code. He will make certain that such things as proper exiting and barrier-free requirements are met. At the same time, he will establish occupancy loads for the site. The cost of the Occupancy Permit is $26. If the building complies with code requirements, a Certificate for Occupancy is granted. Should the building not meet code, it is best for the business owner to know this in advance of signing a lease or purchasing the site.
Permits for Building, Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical The Building Department also issues permits for on-site construction or the modification of the building. State code requires that electrical, mechanical and plumbing work is performed by Michigan-licensed contractors.
Typical work that requires a permit includes such things as:
The permit application requires you to provide the building inspector with a description of the planned work. Normal maintenance repairs, such as changing fixtures and lights, or work on the heating and air-conditioning systems, do not require a permit. Once the work is completed, your contractor will schedule a final inspection with the Building Department. This will help to ensure your safety and that of the public.
Sign Permit When designing signage or an awning for your new or existing business, individuals are required to obtain a Sign Permit from the Building Department. This allows the building inspector the opportunity to review the concept drawing to make certain the sign or awning is in compliance with the city's Sign Ordinance. The overall dimensions of the sign or awning will be checked, as well as the height of the lettering and artwork. In the central business district, lettering cannot exceed 18 inches in height. While the overall sign height cannot exceed 30 inches, the sign can span the entire length of the front facade. Awnings must be located a minimum of seven feet above the sidewalk. When you apply for your Occupancy Permit, the building inspector can provide you with a copy of the city's Sign Ordinance. A permit is required for each sign or set of awnings that are installed. The cost of the permit is based upon project costs, with most permits ranging from $26 to $38. The Building Department is located within Dowagiac City Hall at 241 S. Front Street. To contact Building Inspector James Bradford, call (269) 782-8427 or contact him at bradford@dowagiac.org.
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