Alaska, Ketchikan Gateway Borough Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Ketchikan Gateway Borough Remodeling and Renovation Permit Requirements

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough's Building Division, under the Department of Public Works, acts as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building and safety matters. For projects within the City of Ketchikan, a separate City building permit may also be required. It is crucial to contact the KGB Planning and Community Development Division for zoning permit requirements, as these may be necessary even if a building permit is not required for a specific project.

1. Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough's Building Division is responsible for enforcing building codes and issuing permits. They can be reached at (907) 228-4737 or (907) 228-4720 for inquiries regarding permit requirements. For zoning-related questions, the Planning Department can be contacted at (907) 228-6610 or [email protected].

2. Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

Permit requirements generally apply to all properties within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. While specific regulations for unincorporated areas are not detailed separately in the provided documents, it is understood that the Borough's building and zoning codes apply. For projects within the City of Ketchikan limits, a separate City building permit is necessary. The Borough issues permits for utility hookups, road development, and use of Borough land, which may be relevant for properties in unincorporated areas.

3. Specific Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

Demolition is listed as a work type that requires a permit on the Building Permit Application form. Therefore, any demolition work undertaken as part of a remodel will trigger the need for a building permit.

4. Permit Requirements for Altering or Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas requires a building permit. This is considered an alteration or conversion of an existing structure. The new living space must comply with current residential and energy code requirements.

Garages: Converting a garage into living space necessitates a building permit. Any associated plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work will also require separate permits. The property may need to provide alternative off-street parking if garage parking is eliminated. Detailed building plans are required, including floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and information on energy code compliance. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are mandatory in the converted space and throughout the residence. Emergency escape and rescue openings are required for new sleeping rooms.
Attics: While not explicitly detailed for conversion, the submittal requirements for residential permits mention specifying attic access location and size, and providing details for roof framing. Converting an attic to living space would likely follow similar requirements to other conversions, necessitating a building permit and adherence to building codes for habitable spaces, including egress and ventilation.
Unfinished Basements: Converting an unfinished basement into a livable space requires a building permit. This process involves ensuring compliance with safety standards and building codes, including structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC requirements. Proper egress, ventilation, and fire safety measures are critical. A comprehensive permit application package with architectural plans, engineering reports, and project descriptions will be necessary.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Alaska, including Ketchikan Gateway Borough.

Alaska Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Alaska State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Alaska's building codes and legislation for remodelers and residential renovations are primarily governed by state statutes and administrative codes, with local municipalities also having the authority to enact additional restrictions. The state generally adopts the International Code Council (ICC) model codes, with Alaska-specific amendments to address unique environmental conditions and seismic activity.

1. Adopted State Statutes and Codes

The state has adopted the 2021 International Building Code (IBC), 2021 International Fire Code (IFC), 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), and 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC). These are adopted under the authority of the Alaska State Fire Marshal.
The 2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) has also been adopted.
While not adopted statewide, the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) and the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) are adopted by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) for its residential standards and Building Energy Efficiency Standard (BEES), respectively. Local jurisdictions may adopt more recent editions or additional codes.
Specific mechanical and plumbing codes are also adopted, including the 2018 Uniform Plumbing Code and the 2020 National Electric Code.

2. Primary State Boards or Agencies

The Alaska Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire and Life Safety, is responsible for statewide jurisdiction for fire code enforcement and plan review authority, enforcing building and fire codes for commercial structures.
The Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) administers the Alaska Minimum Construction Standards and the Building Energy Efficiency Standard (BEES), establishing minimum building and energy-efficiency requirements for homes financed through AHFC.
The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, through its Mechanical Inspection section, oversees installations of mechanical work, including electrical and plumbing, and is responsible for contractor licensing enforcement.
The Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED), Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing (CBPL), governs construction contractor licensing.

3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

The distinction between cosmetic and structural alterations is generally determined by whether the work affects the building's structural integrity, occupancy, or systems. For instance, interior remodels that involve removing or adding walls, or changing the location of plumbing and electrical systems, typically require permits and review.
Converting attics or basements to habitable living spaces would generally be considered a structural alteration requiring permits and adherence to current building codes.
Demolition guidelines vary by locality, but generally, a demolition permit is required for full building demolitions and for partial demolitions involving structural elements. Structures built before 1978 may require an asbestos survey due to the likelihood of asbestos-containing materials. Utility disconnections are mandatory before demolition begins. Small accessory structures built after 1978 may be exempt from demolition permits in some areas, but proper disposal and utility disconnection are still required.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

Help Us Improve This Guide

Did you find a dead link, or do you have the direct link to the Ketchikan Gateway Borough permit application portal? Help us keep this information accurate by submitting an update.