Building Permits

Avondale Estates manages all building permits and inspections through Community Core. Use this platform to apply for permits and schedule inspections.

For step-by-step guidance on the application process, please refer to the How to Apply for a Building Permit section below.


When is a Building Permit Needed?

  • Constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing or changing the occupancy of any structure,
  • Repairs and maintenance costs are equal to, or greater than $300,
  • The proposed construction activities include roofing or structural work,
  • The changes affect zoning (such as changes in lot coverage) and any land-disturbing activities requiring staff review including:
    1. Any project disturbing more than 1,000 square feet of land or introducing more than 1,000 square feet of impervious surface requires a Land Disturbance Permit (LDP). Please note: The first 1.2 inches of stormwater must be contained on-site.
    2. Stump grinding, or
    3. Driveway replacement/improvement.
  • Work will occur within a Local Historic District, or
  • Work or activities block, impede, or otherwise affect sidewalks, streets or other rights-of-way (ROWs).

Separate trade permits are required when installing, enlarging, altering, repairing, removing, converting, or replacing any drainage, sewer, gas, mechanical (HVAC), electrical, or plumbing system (regardless of value).

Note: Fences, driveways, plumbing and HVAC systems all require permits.

  1. Josh Weston

    City Analyst and Permit Services Coordinator

  2. Lori Leland

    Planning and Development Director

How to Apply for a Building Permit and Receive a Certificate of Occupancy:

  1. Sign up or log in to the Community Core portal. If you are a contractor, include the contractor affidavit (linked here).
  2. Apply for a Permit: Choose the appropriate permit for your project.
  3. Upload Required Files: Submit all necessary files for zoning, land disturbance, and building plan review. This includes the Homeowner as Contractor Affidavit and Plan Review Waiver as applicable.
  4. Zoning and Building Plan Review:
    • Allow 10 business days for the first round of plan reviews.
    • Allow 5 business days for subsequent reviews.
    • Properties in the historic district may require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA), issued by the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). This must be completed before a building permit can be issued.
  5. Address Plan Reviewer's Comments: If reviewers suggest changes or clarifications, respond and revise plans accordingly. Please ensure that you indicate any changes in your plans by using a cloud or highlighting them.
  6. Submit Plan Revisions: After addressing comments, submit PLAN REVISIONS by uploading the revisions into the "Documents" section of your permit. Select "Yes" when you see the prompt "Are you resubmitting plans"?
  7. Pay Permit Fees: After the construction plans are approved, pay the required permit fees.
  8. Complete Contractor Registration:
    • Contractors must fill out the Contractor Affidavit.
    • Contractors must upload a business license, state trade license (if applicable), and the contractor affidavit into their registration.
    • *Permits will only be issued to licensed contractors.*
  9. Permit Issuance: Upon completion of the prior steps, you will receive a permit via email.
  10. Request Inspections: Inspections are scheduled through Community Core. Inspections can be requested for the following business day only if the request is made before 3 pm.
  11. Final Inspection and CO/CC Issuance: As-built drawings are required for all new construction. Once all inspections are passed, you'll receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or Certificate of Completion (CC).