Ouachita Parish, Louisiana Roofing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Ouachita Parish Roofing Permit Requirements
Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, requires permits for roofing and reroofing projects on both residential and commercial structures, effective August 1, 2025. It is a violation of Louisiana law for contractors to begin work without a permit or to fail to obtain required inspections. The Ouachita Parish Permit Office is responsible for issuing building permits for the unincorporated areas of the parish.
Jurisdiction and Unincorporated Areas
The Ouachita Parish Permit Office handles building permits for properties in unincorporated areas of Ouachita Parish. While the Ouachita Parish Police Jury does not currently have zoning ordinances to control land use outside of municipal boundaries, deed restrictions may apply and are filed with the Ouachita Parish Clerk of Courts Office. Developments may require site development, drainage impact statements, or building permits prior to construction.
Permit Process and Requirements
To obtain a building permit for new residential construction, you will need:
- Sewer permit from the Department of Health and Hospitals or a letter from a public sewer company.
- Legal description of the property.
- One set of house plans.
- Plan review letter if using a third-party inspector.
- Property address obtained from the 911 Coordinator.
- Elevation certificate if the property is located in a special flood hazard area.
- Proof of hiring a Louisiana State licensed contractor or a self-contracting affidavit.
- Payment of fees at the time the permit is issued.
For commercial buildings, additional requirements may include a statement of adequate sewer facilities, a certificate of elevation (if in a flood zone), and a site development permit for developments of 1 acre or larger. A site development permit is required for any site development involving more than one acre within the parish's jurisdiction and outside of incorporated municipalities.
Contractor Licensing
Effective January 1, 2026, contractors performing residential roofing work valued at $7,500 or more must hold a Residential Roofing or Residential Construction license. Contractors must ensure they have the correct license classification for the scope and price of the project.