Scope and Administration
Scope, permits, inspections, and code enforcement procedures
Sections
Scope
CODE APPLIES TO ALL REPAIRS - IRC applies to construction, alteration, replacement, repair, and all other work on one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
Permit Exemptions - Birmingham
Birmingham permit exemptions follow IRC R105.2. Most insurance restoration work requires permits. Minimum fee $125.
Permit Exemptions - Little Rock / Arkansas (Chapter 8 + AFPC R105.2)
Little Rock permit threshold: $5,000 total valuation OR any work requiring safety inspection. Specific exemptions per AFPC R105.2 and Chapter 8 of Little Rock Code. Exemption from permit does NOT exempt from code compliance.
Work Exempt from Permit - Maryland/Rockville
ROCKVILLE MD EXEMPTIONS - Permit NOT required for: In-kind roofing/siding (outermost layer only, same material), decks under 7.75" high, drywall in detached homes (non-fire-rated), cosmetic work. Exemption VOID if: replacing sheathing, changing material type, structural repairs, or work in townhomes/attached units.
Work Exempt from Permit - Virginia USBC
VIRGINIA EXEMPTIONS - Permit NOT required for: Accessory structures under 256 sq ft (no MEP), fences under 7 ft, retaining walls under 4 ft, sidewalks/driveways, cosmetic finishes, window replacements (no structural change). STRICTER than some states on sheds (256 sq ft vs 120 sq ft threshold).
Inspections - Birmingham Yellow Card System
Birmingham uses a "Yellow Card" inspection system with 3 phases: Foundation/Site, Rough-in, and Final. 24-hour scheduling notice. $75 re-inspection fee. Roof-only jobs typically need Final only.