Planning a project at your Tolland home and wondering if you need a permit? Skipping this step can slow you down later, especially when you go to sell or refinance. You want a safe, compliant upgrade without surprises. This guide explains when a permit is required in Tolland, what’s exempt, how to apply, timelines, and what buyers and sellers should watch for. Let’s dive in.
What needs a permit in Tolland
Most construction and structural changes require a permit under Connecticut law, which towns like Tolland administer locally. State law says you cannot start work that needs a permit until the permit is issued. You can review the legal framework in Connecticut General Statutes § 29-263 on permit issuance and enforcement here.
Common projects that require a permit
- Additions, new construction and structural alterations. You apply through the town’s Building and Zoning process, which are reviewed together on the town’s Forms and Permits page.
- Decks and porches unless they meet the specific local exemption. Tolland’s deck requirements outline plans, septic setbacks and when an A-2 survey is needed in the deck handout.
- Pools and hot tubs. Any pool deeper than 24 inches needs a permit, plus barrier and electrical approvals. See the town’s pool rules and separate hot tub guidance.
- Roofing. Tolland requires a permit for reroofing; see what details to provide in the roofing handout.
- Sheds and accessory structures. Sheds 200 square feet and larger require a building permit and may need a survey or foundation details. Review the shed guide.
- Trade work. Electrical, plumbing and mechanical work typically require separate trade permits.
Exemptions and thresholds to know
- Decks are exempt only if all are true: less than 200 square feet, no more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to the dwelling and does not serve an exit door. If any condition is not met, you need a permit.
- Sheds under 200 square feet have simplified requirements. At 200 square feet or more, you follow the formal permit process and may need surveys.
- Any pool deeper than 24 inches, including above-ground models, requires a permit. Electrical and barrier requirements also apply.
Zoning, septic and wetlands checks
Tolland combines building and zoning review, so setbacks and use rules are checked with your permit. Depending on location and scope, work near wetlands usually needs review by the Inland Wetlands Commission. If your property has a septic system, the Eastern Highlands Health District commonly reviews projects like decks, pools, sheds and hot tubs to confirm septic setbacks and access are protected. Some areas, such as the Tolland Green Historic District, may also require a Certificate of Appropriateness.
How to apply in Tolland
Where to submit
You can apply online through the town’s Online Permit Center, or submit by email, mail, drop box or in person. The Building Department lists forms, office hours and contacts on the town’s Forms and Permits page.
What to include in your application
- Completed Building and Zoning Permit application or online submission.
- Site map or plot plan to scale showing property lines, proposed work, well and septic locations, and distances. Some projects require an A-2 survey for the application and an as-built before final inspection.
- Construction plans or manufacturer specs, such as framing plans for decks, pool or hot tub specifications, or shed assembly details.
- Separate trade permit applications for electrical, plumbing or mechanical work when required.
- Contractor information and proof of registration/insurance if applicable.
Fees and payment
Permit fees are set by the Town Council and are typically based on the value of the work, with plan review included. Some residential permits include a zoning review fee. You can review the adopted fee schedule on eCode360, or call the Building Department for a quote.
Timelines, inspections and expiration
Review and issuance
Connecticut law directs building officials to issue or refuse permits within a defined timeframe, typically within 30 days after you apply, depending on completeness and any plan corrections. See the statute on permit issuance timing in CGS § 29-263.
Inspections and scheduling
Your permit will list required inspections, which often include footing, foundation, framing, electrical and final inspections. You or your contractor will call the Building Department to schedule each inspection as work progresses. Have your permit number ready and confirm if any photos or documents are accepted for specific checks.
Permit expiration and extensions
Under the State Building Code, a permit becomes invalid if you do not start work within 180 days of issuance, or if work stops for 180 days after it starts. The building official can grant written extensions for justifiable cause. Review R105.5 of the State Building Code through the LII resource.
Buyer and seller tips
- Document everything. Keep permits, approvals, inspection records and any as-built surveys with your property files. These help buyers and lenders validate improvements.
- Do not start early. Work that needs a permit cannot legally begin until the permit is issued, which can lead to stop-work orders, rework or delays at closing.
- Verify contractors. If you hire a contractor, confirm they are properly registered and insured, and agree in writing who will pull the permit. You can verify home-improvement contractor registration and get consumer guidance from the state’s Department of Consumer Protection.
- For sellers with older projects, call early. If a past improvement lacks a permit, the town can advise on next steps to bring it into compliance. Build in time for inspections and any as-built requirements.
Ready to talk through a specific Tolland property or project before you list or write an offer? Reach out to Peter Vamvilis for local guidance that helps you avoid surprises and move forward with confidence.
FAQs
Do I need a permit for a small, ground-level deck in Tolland?
- A deck can be exempt only if it is under 200 square feet, no more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to the house and does not serve an exit door. If any of these conditions are not met, you need a permit.
Do above-ground pools in Tolland require a permit?
- Yes if the pool is deeper than 24 inches. You will also need to meet barrier and electrical requirements and schedule inspections.
How long does my Tolland building permit stay valid?
- Permits expire if work does not start within 180 days, or if work stops for 180 days after starting. You can request written extensions from the building official for justifiable cause.
Who should pull the permit, me or my contractor?
- Either can apply, but if a contractor is required to be registered, their registration should be included. Confirm in your contract who will apply and verify the permit is issued before work begins.
What happens if work was done without a permit in Tolland?
- Contact the Building Department to discuss retroactive permitting or corrections. Expect inspections and possible plan submissions before the town can close the permit.
