FAQs • Grinnell, IA • CivicEngage

Do I need a permit for a fence and what are the guidelines for new fences?: A permit is required to build a fence. All fences must meet visibility requirements and the better appearing side must face your neighbor's property. The height cannot exceed 4 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in the rear and side yards. Fences must be placed on your property such that it can be maintained without trespassing. Contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600 for further visibility requirements.

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Building & Planning

1. How do I know if I need a building permit?: Building permits are required for all new buildings or alterations to existing buildings. The following list of alterations DO NOT require a building permit: nonstructural alterations not exceeding $500.00, paneling, cabinet replacements, door and window replacement if replaced with an equal size, storm window replacement, screen replacement, gutter addition or replacement, railing replacement, repairs of porches, ordinary maintenance work, painting and floor coverings, maintenance and/or repairs on structures used for farming purposes only (new construction of a permanent structure used for farming purposes shall require a permit). For more information see the Permits & Information webpage. Permits & Information

2. How do I get a permit?: Permits are available for download on the city website or at the city office. See the Permits & Information webpage for a list of downloadable forms. Permits & Information

3. Can I plant a tree in the right-of-way?: Yes, provided the proper permit is completed and approved. There is no fee for a tree permit. A permit is not required to plant a tree on private property. For a list of recommended trees see the Permits & Information webpage. Permits & Information

The city of Grinnell is currently under the following building codes:

5. Does the city of Grinnell have a rental inspection program?: Yes, a rental inspection program was approved by ordinance dated 5/20/2019. It requires all rental properties used for residential purposes, including hotels and motels, to be registered with the city and be inspected on a one to three year schedule. For more questions or to set up an inspection contact the Building & Planning department at 641-236-2600.
Rental Inspection Program - Further Information

6. Do I need a permit for a fence and what are the guidelines for new fences?: A permit is required to build a fence. All fences must meet visibility requirements and the better appearing side must face your neighbor's property. The height cannot exceed 4 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in the rear and side yards. Fences must be placed on your property such that it can be maintained without trespassing. Contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600 for further visibility requirements.

7. Do I need a permit for a swimming pool and what are the guidelines?: All swimming pools capable of holding 24 inches, in depth, or more of water, require a permit. Plans and specifications concerning the pool shall be submitted along with the request for a permit. A fence not less than 5 feet in height with no openings other than doors or gates and at least 4 feet from the edge of the pool should be in place before filling the pool. Pools must be located in side or rear yards only. Contact the building and planning department at 641-236-2600 for further requirements and to obtain a permit.

8. Do I need a permit to repair or replace a driveway?: If a currently paved driveway is being replaced or repaired without increasing in size, no permit is needed. If a dirt or gravel driveway is being paved or a paved driveway will increase in size, a permit is needed. If you are unsure if you need a permit contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.

9. When do I need a mechanical permit?: Mechanical permits are required for the new installation or replacement of existing mechanical equipment including central air conditioners, furnaces, air handlers, mini-split systems, and any other types of equipment. If you are unsure if you need a permit contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.
Mechanical Permit Form

10. When do I need an electrical permit?: The City of Grinnell requires an electrical permit for work that is outside of the electrical panel. If work is to be done which includes the addition of a new circuit to a breaker, the State of Iowa requires a permit to be obtained and the state will also complete the inspection. For work that includes working inside the panel, please contact Tim Shaw at 515-205-8815 to both obtain a permit and schedule an inspection. If you are unsure if you need a permit from the City of Grinnell contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.

11. When do I need a plumbing permit?: Plumbing permits are required for the new installation or replacement of existing plumbing equipment including water heaters & supply, drain, and vent lines. Fixtures such as toilets, faucets, and shower heads do not require a permit as long as the work being completed does not interfere with the existing valve; if a new valve is to be installed, a permit will need to be obtained and test shall be completed. If you are unsure if you need a permit contact the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600.
Plumbing Permit Form

12. How are permit fees determined?: Permit fees are based on the valuation of the work performed, including both materials and labor. If labor is at no cost, the permit fee is based on the material cost times two. Permit fees include all normal plan reviews and inspections. Beginning July 1, 2018 a number of items are charged a flat rate regardless of the valuation of the work completed.
Permit Fees

13. How do I find zoning on a property?: You may call the Building & Planning Department at 641-236-2600 or use our searchable Zoning Map. Zoning Map

14. How do I find out who owns a specific property?: The Poweshiek County Assessor maintains a website with property ownership information. Poweshiek County Assessor Site