Permit Requirements for Chase, Michigan
For HVAC projects in Chase, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Lake County.
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Most jurisdictions require permits for HVAC work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:
General HVAC Guidelines
Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.
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If you have found a direct link to a permit portal or a specific local ordinance for HVAC in this area, please submit an update.
Because Chase is located within Lake County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Michigan, Lake County Hvac Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
HVAC Permit Requirements in Lake County, Michigan
In Lake County, Michigan, HVAC work generally requires a permit. Mechanical work cannot commence until a permit has been issued by the appropriate enforcing agency. Homeowners performing work on their own residence, as well as contractors, are responsible for securing the necessary permits.
County-Level Jurisdiction
Lake County has a Building Department that handles permit applications and enforcement throughout the county. For questions regarding county-issued permits, the Lake County Building Department can be contacted directly.
Unincorporated Areas
Lake County issues building permits specifically for properties located in the unincorporated areas of the county. If a property is within an incorporated city, that city's building department is responsible for permits, not the county.
For unincorporated areas, permit applications can be obtained from the Lake County Building Department office or downloaded from their website. Applications are accepted via USPS mail or in person; emails and faxes are not accepted.
The Lake County Building Department also handles mechanical permit applications. Mechanical work must conform to the Michigan Mechanical Code, and no work should be concealed until it has been inspected.
Specific forms for various projects in unincorporated Lake County, including some that may not require a full permit but rather a registration, are available. These include applications for air conditioner replacements, gazebo or screen room construction, and water heater replacements.
Permit Application Process and Requirements
- Permit applications are available in person or via the Lake County Building Department website.
- Applications must be submitted by mail or in person.
- Permits are generally valid for one year and can be extended in 180-day increments for a fee.
- A permit will be canceled if no inspections are requested or performed within six months of issuance or the last inspection.
- For mechanical permits, plans may not be required for certain residential dwellings (total heating/cooling system input rating of 375,000 Btu's or less), minor alterations, or small business/mercantile/storage buildings (under 3,500 sq ft with HVAC equipment only). Plans are required for all other building types.
- Contractors must be licensed according to Contractor License Ordinance #1628.
- Homeowners are permitted to construct one residence every seven years, subject to approval by the Unincorporated Licensing Board.
- Energy compliance for mechanical systems can be met through a performance method (requiring an Energy Compliance Analysis report) or a prescriptive method (requiring a Lake County Energy Compliance Certificate).
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Michigan:
Michigan Hvac Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Michigan HVAC Building Codes and Legislation
In Michigan, the regulation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is governed by a framework of state-adopted codes. The primary enabling legislation is the Stille-DeRossett-Hale Single State Construction Code Act (Public Act 230 of 1972), which authorizes the state to establish uniform construction standards.
For mechanical systems, Michigan has adopted the 2021 Michigan Mechanical Code, which is based on the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) with specific Michigan amendments to address local climate, safety, and enforcement needs. For residential projects (one- and two-family dwellings), HVAC requirements are primarily contained within the Michigan Residential Code, which is based on the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with state-specific amendments.
These codes establish the minimum requirements for the design, installation, maintenance, alteration, and inspection of mechanical systems. Compliance with these standards is mandatory, and work typically requires a permit from the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and must be performed by a licensed mechanical contractor.
Primary State Agency
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), specifically through its Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC), is the primary agency responsible for the adoption, administration, and enforcement of the statewide construction codes. The Bureau oversees the development of these codes, manages contractor licensing, and provides guidance on code compliance and permitting processes across the state.
Resources to Learn More