The Purpose of Permits Permits allow the enforcement of the codes which have been adopted as law by a state, county, township or city.  No matter what the specific project may be, the enforcement of codes is carried out to protect the public health, safety and welfare.  The unit of government which enforces the code is acting to assure safe construction. The Use of Permits Code officials and inspectors use building permits as a vital step in their enforcement of codes.  You have an investment in the home or business you are about to build or remodel.  When that home or business building does not comply with the codes, your investment could be reduced.  Applying for a building permit notifies the Code Official that you are constructing or remodeling a building so he or she can ensure code compliance. Why a Building Permit? Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to protect us by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and therefore ensuring the public health, safety and welfare.  The building permit process helps us understand what our local laws and ordinances are.  Before any construction or remodeling work begins, application for a permit should be made.  Building permits provide the means for Code Officials to inspect construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used.