By Lisa Welsh Becker
Times Staff Writer

So, you re thinking of remodeling the kitchen? Adding on a deck to enjoy the summer nights?

Just remember: Don't start hammering without first obtaining a permit.

Yes, it will cost you something. But paying the price now can avoid potential and potentially expensive liability problems down the road, the experts say.

Some people may be surprised what kinds of projects require a permit. Among the most commonly overlooked projects: basements and decks.

Along with building permits, separate permits also are required for electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning work, as well as curb cuts and street openings. If you have a home improvement project in mind, here are a few words of advice offered by local officials:

• When filling out an application form, have all the necessary information at hand. That means supplying the who, what, when, where, why and how regarding the project. Knowing the answers to these questions will move the process along more quickly.
• You also will need to provide at least two sets of plans for your project. If it's a new home, you may be asked to provide three sets of plans.
• Plan as far in advance as possible. With the spring and summer months traditionally busy for construction, allow plenty of time. In some cities, it may take a couple days for the permit to be processed. Larger projects may take a week or more.
• Follow code. Many of the municipal offices have handouts with information on the codes and requirements that must be met for various projects, from handrails to insulation. In fact, check with the inspector before going out and buying materials and fixtures for your project so you know what s needed to meet code requirements.
• Bring your checkbook. The fees for permits vary depending on what you're doing, whether it be a building, heating, electrical or plumbing project. Typically, the fee is based on the value of the project itself, Griebler said. Also, the fees vary from city to city. Each city has the option to set up its own fee schedule.
• Don't forget about inspections. Some municipalities have separate inspectors for different types of work. The permit holder is responsible for obtaining the required inspections at the appropriate times. Local officials advise allowing at least 24 hours notice to the respective inspectors to ensure availability.
• Be cautious about who you hire to do your work. The building inspection offices can provide information on how to choose a contractor, if they are licensed, and what recourse is available should you have a complaint.

State statutes require that most residential building contractors, remodelers, roofers and manufactured home installers be licensed by the state. Specialty contractors who perform only one special skill are exempt from state licensing, as are contractors who generate less than $15,000 in gross annual receipts.

To determine the licensing status of a particular contractor, call the Minnesota Department of Commerce Licensing Division at (612) 296-6319 or (800) 657-3978. Complaints against licensed contractors can be directed to the Department of Commerce, Enforcement Division, at (612) 296-2594 or (800) 657-3602.

Just a note: The license number of a licensed contractor must appear in all display advertising, business cards, lien notices and statements, contracts and proposals.

Obtaining A Permit

Here are contacts for obtaining building permits in the St. Cloud area.

• St. Cloud: John Griebler, Building Inspection Program Coordinator, Health and Inspections Department, City Hall, 400 Second St. S, St. Cloud. Phone: 255-7230.
• Sauk Rapids: Dave Lindmeier, Building Official, City Hall, 115 Second Ave. N, Sauk Rapids. Phone: 251-3988.
• Sartell: City Hall, 310 Second St. S., Sartell. Phone: 253-2171. The city's building inspection work is contracted out through Ron Euteneuer, Great Northern Building Inspection Inc., Waite Park. Phone: 251-2852.
• Waite Park: City Hall, 19-13th Ave. N., Waite Park. Phone: 252-6822. The city's building inspection work is contracted out through Ron Euteneuer, Great Northern Building Inspection Inc., Waite Park. Phone: 251-2852.

This article ran in the St. Cloud Times Home & Outdoor Living section in May 1997.