Frequently Asked Questions

For building, health, and zoning regulations you may contact the phone number 603-432-1100, ext. 115, or email Christine Wholley, Permit Technician.

No, provided there is no structural work involved. If it is discovered that some portion of the building framing needs to be replaced because of moisture damage, then a permit and follow-up inspection would be required.

Yes. Provided the property is a single-family dwelling occupied by the owner as their primary domicile with no other living units in the structure, the owner may do their own work.

If the additional bedroom exceeds the total number of bedrooms for which the existing system was designed, then a new septic system must be designed for the property. The newly approved system is not required to be installed until such time when the existing system fails.

Residential stairways must be at least 36 inches wide with treads at 10 inches minimum depth and a maximum riser height of 7 and 3 / 4 inches. Handrails are required on any stairway with 4 or more risers (steps). Handrails must be installed at a height between 34 inches to 38 inches above the stair (measured at the stair nosing).

Yes. You can install a fence no more than 6 feet in height on your rear and side property lines. Any fence taller than 6 feet is considered a structure and must then meet the setback requirements. Fences along the front property line may not exceed 4 feet in height and should be of the "open" type such as chain-link, rail, or picket.

No. Provided that the sides of the pool are a solid structure (not the vinyl inflatable type) and the walls are at least 48 inches in height above the ground.

All structures in the Residential Agricultural (AR-1) zoning district are required to be setback from the property lines by the following distances:

• Front Property Line Setback: 40 feet
• Side and Rear Property Line Setback: 15 feet
• Structures and Enclosures for Housing Livestock: must be setback 25 feet

View or download the 2.3.1.7 Accessory Dwellings (PDF).

As of January 1, 2025, no permit is required for sheds under 400 square feet. Permits are still required for sheds over 400 square feet. A shed 400 square feet or more must have footings installed to frost depth of 48 inches. All sheds regardless of size must comply with all setback provisions.