FAQs • Creston, IA • CivicEngage

Can I do my own work on my home and do I need a permit?: Homeowners can do work on their own homestead dwelling (does not include rental units). Permits and inspections are required for major remodels and additions and will be issued to the homestead property owner of record. Electrical work done by the homeowner is permitted as long as the work has a permit and is inspected by the City Electrical Inspector. Plumbing work may be done by the homeowner as long as the work has a permit and is inspected by the City Inspector.

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Building

Please use this link for more information regarding locating your property lines.

2. When do I need a building permit?: Any time you build a new building, enlarge an existing building, or make a change to an existing building that affects its structural characteristics. Major residential remodeling projects and anytime a commercial or industrial building is remodeled.

3. Do I need a permit for a fence?: Maybe, if the fence does not comply with the zoning regulations a permit and approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment will be required. Regulations that apply to fences are under Chapter 168, Section 168.01. Contact the City Building Department at 641-782-2000, Option 3, with questions prior to constructing the fence.

4. Can a fence go on the property line?: Yes, a fence may be constructed up to the property line. Review the regulations that apply to fences, Chapter 168, Section 168.01. Contact your next door neighbor to make sure you both agree where the lot line is.

5. Can I do my own work on my home and do I need a permit?: Homeowners can do work on their own homestead dwelling (does not include rental units). Permits and inspections are required for major remodels and additions and will be issued to the homestead property owner of record. Electrical work done by the homeowner is permitted as long as the work has a permit and is inspected by the City Electrical Inspector. Plumbing work may be done by the homeowner as long as the work has a permit and is inspected by the City Inspector.

6. Do I need a permit for a deck?: Any deck attached to a dwelling, or that serves the primary entrance, requires a permit. A detached deck requires a permit if it is more than thirty inches high or more than one hundred twenty square feet in area.

7. Do I need a permit for a shed or other accessory building?: Possibly, a permit is not needed as long as the building meets all required setbacks and as long as the building is a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool and/or storage shed, playhouse or other similar use and provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet.

8. Are frost depth footings required for a detached garage or other accessory building?: Frost depth footings are required for freestanding light-frame construction accessory buildings (detached garages) larger than 780 square feet and for freestanding accessory structures other than light-frame construction larger than 400 square feet. The frost depth for the Creston area is forty-two inches to the bottom of the footing.

9. Where should smoke and/or carbon monoxide detectors be located?: Smoke detectors shall be located in each sleeping area. A smoke and carbon monoxide detector shall be located adjacent to sleeping areas and a smoke detector should be located on each level of a dwelling in addition to those serving sleeping areas.

10. Where should ground-fault electrical receptacles be located?: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, unfinished basements, garages and as exterior electrical outlets.

11. Is a permit required for an above ground swimming pool?: No, however, setback requirements are the same as for other accessory structures and special barrier requirements may apply. Contact the Building Inspector at 641-782-2000, Ext. 205 for help with specific requirements.

12. How do I find out how my property is zoned?: Contact the Public Works Department at 641-782-2000, Option 3, or refer to the City of Creston zoning map.

13. How can I find out if my property is in a flood zone?: Flood information is handled by the Public Works Department. Call the office at 641-782-2000, Option 3, for assistance.