Zoning, Building & Property
Building & Zoning
To safeguard resident safety and ensure compliance with local, state, and national standards, the Village strictly enforces its building and zoning codes. Before starting any project, homeowners are strongly encouraged to consult Village officials and/or review the building and zoning codes to confirm specific regulations. Access to North Bay's Municipal Code can be found via the related links.
Obtaining proper permits prior to construction is the ultimate responsibility of the homeowner, even when contractors are hired to perform the work. Permit placards must be posted and clearly visible at the front of the property before work begins. Unpermitted work is subject to potential forfeiture, and late permits incur higher fees.
Key timeline and approval requirements include:
- Prior Approval: Permits must receive approval from both the Village and the respective Inspector before any work commences.
- Permit Duration: Permits remain valid for two years. If a project requires more time, homeowners must contact the Inspector(s) to request an extension.
- Final Inspection: A final inspection is mandatory upon project completion.
Failure to secure a required permit or schedule a final inspection results in the following penalties:
- 1st Offense: Fees Double
- Subsequent Offenses: Fees Triple
Failure to Schedule Final Inspection: Fees Triple
Examples of When Permits are required
A permit must be secured for numerous structural, electrical, plumbing, fence, site development and HVAC projects.
Visit the Permit Info and Applications page to view examples of when permits are required. This includes, but is not limited to, additions, renovations, property improvements, including site development, water heater replacements, roof upgrades, decks, saunas, spas, pools, installation or replacement of structures, and the installation or replacement of fences.
The table is intended to serve as a guide for when permits for home projects in North Bay. It is not a comprehensive list, and there may be certain conditions within a given project that cause a permit to be required. Note that in certain instances when a Zoning Permit is needed, there may also be a Conditional Use Permit or Right of Way permit requirement. It is best to contact the Village Office or one of the inspectors during the planning phase of the project to determine what permits will be needed.
DNR – Shoreline Erosion Control
Driveways & Right-of-Way (ROW)
Village Code relating to driveways & right-of-way (ROW) is located in Chapter 7. If you are planning to install or replace a sprinkler system, a ROW permit will be required.
Chapter 7 includes information about Streets (public and private) & Public Lands; Driveways; Street Excavations and Openings; Encroachments on Public Property; Tree Trimming and Encroachment; Sewer Use; and Location of Public Utility Equipment; and Wireless Facilities in Public Lands and Right of Way. Chapter 7 is published on the Municipal Code page.