If it seems like there’s more building projects going on in Pierre this summer, it’s because there are.
A comparison of the first six months of 2019 to the first six months of 2020, shows a 13% increase in the number of building permits issued by the City of Pierre. Building permits are required for everything from new commercial structures to home remodeling projects to new fences.
“The biggest change we’re seeing is an increase in the number of new homes being built,” said John Childs, City Engineer. “Last year at this time, we’d only issued one permit for a new residence; this year, we’re at 15.”
Childs says that the City is also seeing a little spike in smaller projects like residential deck and fencing projects.
“I think some of these smaller projects are likely a positive side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Childs. “People have a little bit more time on their hands so they’re taking on some of those smaller projects that in the past had likely been forfeited in the interest of time.”
“Regardless of cause, we’re always happy to see continued investment in the community.”
The City has ordinances that mandate building permits for a variety of projects. The ordinances align with international building codes and are in place to make sure housing and commercial facilities are built with structural integrity. Those making changes without a permit may be subject to fines or to stop-work orders.
Building permit applications are available at cityofpierre.org. There you’ll also find an explanation of when a permit is necessary, as well as a listing of application fees. If you have questions about building permits, please call City Hall at 605.773.7407.