Ramsey Resident - 2004 - September/October

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7 BillLDING PERMITS REQillRED Why do I need a permit? A permit ensures proper services are provided to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare. If work is done improperly, such work can become unsafe for the homeowners and their families, as well as devalue their home. Homeowners doing their own project need to obtain the necessary permit( s) and call to arrange the required inspections. When a contractor is hired, the homeowner may direct the contractor to obtain the necessary permit(s) enabling both the homeowner and the contractor to worl( with City staff to make sure the work is completed according to code. When do I need a permit? Building permits are required to construct, add on to, alter, remove, demolish, or repair a structure. If you are making changes, repairs, alterations, or additions to any structure, such as your home, office, basement, swimming pool, garage, deck, porch, or storage shed, a building permit may be required before you begin construction. Mechanical permits are required for installation or replacement of mechanical systems in structures. This includes furnaces, air conditioners, gas lines, gas fireplace inserts and additional ductworl(. Plumbing permits are required for all new or replacement fixtures in structures and added gas lines for anything other than the main heating system of the structure. This includes replacement water heaters, water softeners, and plumbing fixtures. Building permit fees vary according to the value of construction. Mechanical and Plumbing permit fees are based upon the type of installation. Informational handouts are available at the Building Department front desl(. If you have questions about permits, need a permit, have a permit and need to schedule an inspection, please call 763-433-9850 or stop by the Building Department located in the lower level of City Hall. FALL W ATERMAIN FLUSIDNG IN OCTOBER The Public Works Department will be doing their semi-annual flushing of watermains and hydrants beginning Monday, October 11 th through Friday, October 22th. Please be aware that this flushing, while it is necessary, will create a disturbance in the system and may cause lower than normal water pressure and your water to be discolored. Although the water may be discolored by rust, it is fit for human consumption but it may stain clothes that are being washed. To alleviate this problem, you may want to fill your washer with water and check on its clarity before adding your clothes. We appreciate your patience and regret any inconvenience that this may cause. Most of us won't be contented with our lot until it s a whole lot nlore. BillLDING DEPARTMENT "GET TO KNOW EM" Over the past nine months the Building Department has seen many significant changes. The City of Ramsey Building Department office, located in the lower level of City Hall, has recently been remodeled to accommodate several new staff members. A new phone number and fax number have also been established, and of course several new faces have been brought on board. Most of you are familiar with Steve Lutmer; Building Inspector. Steve has been in Code Enforcement with the City for the past 17 years. Another familiar face, Lana Howell, has been relocated from the front Reception Counter of City Hall to the Building Department as Department Secretary. Lana has been with the City for four years. The new faces include Mick Kaehler; Building Official, Micl( has been in Building Code Enforcement for the past 19 years. Andy Schreder; Building Inspector has been involved in Code Enforcement for the past 5 years. Katy Okerstrom; Building Permit Technician, has been involved in the Code Enforcement industry for the past 6 years. Also new this summer are two additional temporary inspectors, Scott Jensen and Steve Burnham. Both have been in the Building Code Enforcement for the past 4 years. That's nearly 60 years of experience in the building code industry. The Building Department staff is here to help ensure all your construction projects meet the requirements of the Minnesota State Building Code. So feel free to stop in and "get to lmow em".