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1. What are the climatic and geographic design criteria for Teton County?

Wind Speed - 115 mph, Seismic Design - D1/D2, Weathering - severe, frost line depth - 34", termite - slight, winter design temp - -30, ice shield underlayment required - yes, air freezing index - yes, mean annual temp - 38.   For floodplain, wildland urban interface and ground snow load you can search the specific address on the GIS map and use the layers to get exact information.

2. Does a change in building code require me to retrofit my building?

The applicable building code is the one that was in existence when the building permit was issued.  

3. Do I need a building permit to build a wood deck?

A building permit is required for a wood deck if the deck is 30 inches of more above the finished grade at any point along the deck.

If the deck is less than 30 inches above the finished grade for the entire perimeter of the deck a building permit is not required. You should check with planning regarding the location of the deck to insure it is built in an approved location.

4. Is a building permit needed for storage shed?

Storage sheds that are not attached to any other structure, with no power or water and less than 200 square feet in area do not require a building permit. You should check with planning regarding the location of the shed to insure it is built in an approved location.

5. Who is responsible for scheduling inspections?

It is the duty of the permit holder or their agent to notify the Building Department that work is ready to be inspected. For Teton County, call 307-732-5745 or go online to schedule an inspection.   Inspections must occur at least every 180 days in order to keep the permit active.

6. If I call in an inspection when will the inspector show up?

If the inspection is called by 4 p.m. the inspector will be scheduled to inspect the next business day, you will have the option to choose an am or pm inspection unless you are in Alta.  Alta inspection times are Tuesday pm, Wednesday am, Thursday pm, or Friday am.

7. Can I schedule inspections online?

Yes. Request an inspection online.

8. Do I have to be present at an inspection I schedule?

If this is new construction it is not necessary to be present at the inspection but it is advisable. If the inspector has any questions or concerns it is better to be present to discuss them. This can often eliminate the need for a re-inspection and re-inspection fee.  If the construction job is a remodel or addition to an existing structure it is required that another person be present during the inspection.

9. Do I need a building permit to pour concrete flat work (driveways, walkways, etc.)?

Building permits are not required for flat work provided it is not a structural element of a structure. The creation of any additional impervious surfaces should be reviewed by the Planning Department to insure compliance with the Land Development Regulations (LDRs).

10. When is a certificate of occupancy (CO)/certificate of completion required?

• For all new structures prior to moving in.
• Placement of goods or furniture (other than normal appliances) in the building prior to issuance of a CO is only allowed with the permission of the building official. Commercial occupancies may also require Fire Marshall approval.
• Passing your final building inspection does not automatically grant a CO. Approval of up to 5 different departments may be required prior to issuance of a CO. Applicant should expect the processing of a CO to take up to 5 days after all final inspections have been completed and approvals are received by the building office.
• Certificates of Completion are issued for additions and other projects which occur while the structure is occupied. These certificates allow use of the addition/remodeled area to commence and are subject to similar restrictions as the CO.

11. It`s the middle of winter, the house is done but I can`t finish the site work (grading or landscaping). Can I get a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) now and get my final site work inspection(s) later?

Yes. A Certificate of Occupancy can be issued once a surety bond has been paid. You can contact the Engineering Department to get the exact total required for the grading bond or the Planning Department for the exact total required for the landscaping bond.    The bond is based off of the value of the site work remaining to be completed and the surety is equal to 125% of the estimate.   All surety monies should be written out to Teton County and brought to the Planning Department.   If you have more specific questions on sureties please call the Planning at (307) 733-3959  or Engineering at (307) 733-3317