Bossier City, Louisiana Remodeler Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Bossier City Municipal Permit Ordinances for Remodelers and Home Renovations
In Bossier City, Louisiana, the Permits and Inspections Division of the City of Bossier City is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building permits and renovations. They are responsible for issuing all city building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits and licenses.
For projects located outside of Bossier City limits but utilizing Bossier City water or sewer services, permits are required from both the Bossier Parish Permit Office and the Bossier City Permits Department.
Demolition Permits vs. Residential Building Permits
The need for a distinct demolition permit versus a standard residential building permit in Bossier City is determined by the scope of work:
- Demolition Permit Required: Full building demolition necessitates a demolition permit. Additionally, any demolition of structures built before 1978 requires a permit and an asbestos survey. Partial demolition involving the removal of structural elements like walls, roof sections, or floors also requires a building permit, potentially with structural plans.
- Demolition Permit Not Typically Required: The removal of small accessory structures (sheds, carports, small outbuildings) built after 1978 and not located in a historic district may be exempt from a demolition permit. However, utility disconnection and proper disposal are still mandatory.
Space Alterations: Converting Non-Living Spaces
Converting non-living spaces such as basements or garages into habitable areas is subject to specific zoning and permit rules. Historically, garage conversions were allowed with a permit before 1997. After 1997, zoning updates required an enclosed garage, necessitating the construction of a replacement garage if the original was converted into living space. An amnesty program was introduced in July 2024 to help legalize garage conversions that were done without a permit, preventing future issues with home updates or changes and avoiding the need to comply with current zoning regulations that require an enclosed garage. Such conversions may require a permit and an inspection to legalize them. The current ordinance may have specific provisions regarding nonconforming uses, alterations, enlargements, or conversions of structures.
Fee Nuances and Inspection Stages
Permit fees in Bossier City are structured based on the project's valuation and type. For instance:
- Commercial building permit fees are based on the contract price of new construction, additions, repairs, and alterations.
- Residential building permit fees for additions, repairs, and alterations are also based on the contract price.
- A minimum permit fee of $50.00 applies for work costing less than $2,000.00. For work exceeding $2,000.00, the fee is $5.00 per $1,000.00 or fraction thereof of the construction cost.
- New residential home permit fees have a base fee plus a cost per square foot under roof.
- Demolition permit fees are approximately $150.00 for residential and $250.00 for commercial, plus state surcharges.
- Plan review fees are typically a percentage of the building permit fee.
- Re-inspection fees are charged if an inspection is required more than once.
The Bossier City Permits and Inspections Division is responsible for performing inspections on residential and commercial projects. Specific inspection stages will be detailed during the permit application process.
Resources to Learn More
Because Bossier City is located within Bossier Parish, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Louisiana, Bossier Parish Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Bossier Parish, Louisiana Remodeling and Renovation Permit Requirements
Code Inspections Plus (CIP) serves as the building official and codes enforcement officer for Bossier Parish, specifically for areas outside of incorporated municipalities. Permits are required for various construction activities, including erecting, constructing, enlarging, adding to, altering, repairing, replacing, moving, improving, removing, installing, converting, demolishing, equipping, using, occupying, or maintaining a building, structure, or building service equipment. If you are unsure whether a permit is needed, it is recommended to contact the Bossier Parish Permit Office.
1. Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
The primary authority for building permits in unincorporated areas of Bossier Parish is Code Inspections Plus (CIP). They handle permitting, plan reviews, and building code inspections. For projects within incorporated cities like Bossier City, the respective city's permit department is the AHJ.
2. Properties in Unincorporated Areas
For properties located in the unincorporated areas of Bossier Parish, permit applications can be submitted online through My Government Online (MGO) or via the Code Inspections Plus webpage. Site plans and permit applications, along with associated fees, must be submitted to Code Inspections Plus.
3. Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel
A demolition permit is required for the full demolition of a building. Partial demolition that involves removing structural elements, such as walls, roof sections, or floors, also requires a building permit. For structures built before 1978, an asbestos survey is mandatory before demolition can begin. Removing small accessory structures (sheds, carports, etc.) built after 1978, and not located in a historic district, may be exempt from a demolition permit, but utility disconnections and proper disposal are still necessary.
4. 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 conversion will necessitate compliance with current residential and energy code requirements. If a garage is converted, alternative off-street parking arrangements may be required.
The permit application for such conversions will require detailed building plans illustrating the proposed work. These plans should include:
- Arrangement and dimensions of new and existing walls.
- The intended use of each space.
- Locations of all window and door openings.
- Placement of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, stairs, exhaust fans, plumbing fixtures, and mechanical equipment.
- Information on how the space will meet current energy code requirements.
- Cross-sections indicating floor, ceiling, and roof construction, including ceiling height and materials used.
- Details on slab thickness and footings.
New sleeping rooms created within these converted spaces must have at least one emergency escape and rescue opening. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are mandatory outside of and in the immediate vicinity of all sleeping areas, and within each bedroom. Windows or doors in sleeping rooms should not open into a garage.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Louisiana:
Louisiana Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Louisiana State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations
Louisiana has adopted a comprehensive set of building codes to ensure safety and uniformity in construction and renovation projects across the state. These codes are primarily based on the International Codes (I-Codes) published by the International Code Council (ICC).
1. Specific State Statutes and Codes Adopted
- The current Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code (LSUCC) incorporates the 2021 editions of the International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Existing Building Code (IEBC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Plumbing Code (IPC), and International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). [2, 3, 4, 12, 18, 20]
- The 2020 National Electric Code (NEC) is also adopted. [2, 3, 12, 18, 20]
- Louisiana has also adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). [3, 20]
- Specific amendments are made to these codes to address Louisiana's unique conditions, such as hurricane, flood, and wind-zone requirements. [4]
- For existing buildings, the 2021 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) is applicable. [2, 3, 12, 20]
2. Primary State Boards or Agencies
- The Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council (LSUCCC) is the primary body responsible for adopting and amending the state building codes. [4, 12, 20]
- The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) enforces various codes, including fire, life safety, and accessibility codes, and also plays a role in plan review for structures (excluding one- and two-family dwellings). [3, 14]
- The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) oversees contractor licensing and registration requirements for remodelers and other construction professionals. [9, 10, 21]
3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines
- Cosmetic Remodels vs. Structural Alterations: While the codes do not explicitly define "cosmetic remodels" versus "structural alterations" in a single statement, the distinction generally lies in whether the work affects the structural integrity, safety, or occupancy of the building. Minor cosmetic changes, such as painting or replacing flooring, typically do not require permits or extensive code review. However, any work that alters the building's structure, changes its use, affects electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems, or impacts means of egress will be subject to the building codes and likely require permits and inspections. Converting attics or basements to habitable living spaces, for instance, is considered a significant alteration that must comply with current building codes for structural, fire safety, and egress requirements. [13, 18]
- Demolition Guidelines: Demolition projects are regulated and generally require a permit. The specific requirements can vary by locality. Louisiana Administrative Code, Title 46, Part XXIX, Chapter 3, Section 305 outlines demolition classifications for contractors. For residential structures, demolition valued over $7,500 requires a specific contractor classification. For commercial structures, demolition valued over $50,000 requires specific classifications. [6] General demolition procedures often involve ensuring structural stability during the process, controlling dust, and properly disposing of debris. [19, 24] Permits are typically required for demolition, and specific pre-demolition steps, such as utility disconnections and rodent control, may be necessary. [13, 24]
Resources to Learn More