Building Permits

The City of Lewes adopted the 2021 ICC Codes. The City will begin using the 2021 ICC Codes on January 1, 2024.

2021 ICC Building Code
2021 ICC Residential Code
2021 ICC Existing Building Code
2021 ICC Swimming Pool and Spa Code
2021 ICC Property Maintenance Code
NFPA 13D 2019 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One-and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes.
The City also follows the Plumbing Code, Fuel Gas Code, Energy Conservation Code, and Mechanical Code as adopted by the State of Delaware.

The City of Lewes uses the ICC 2012 Code. Construction shall comply with that Code. The Building Code is Chapter 70 in the City Code

Chapter 70 Building Code
2012 ICC Building Code
2012 ICC Residential Code
2012 ICC Existing Building Code
The City also follows the Plumbing Code, Fuel Gas Code, Energy Conservation Code, and Mechanical Code as adopted by the State of Delaware.

Click one of the following links to apply for a building permit.

Building Permit - New Construction

As of Oct. 12, 2021, all new residential construction requires a fire suppression system. This does not apply to renovations.

Fire Suppression Plan

The City of Lewes will be reviewing the fire suppression plans. The following is required for the submission of the plans
- Fee - $150.
- 2 paper copies (24"x36") and a PDF of the fire suppression plans
- 2 paper copies and a PDF of the hydraulic calculations.
- copy of the water flow test from the Lewes Board of Public Works
- completed application form. Pages 2-5 of the Building Permit - New Construction.

Building Permit - Renovation/Addition/Demolition

You can email permits to buildingpermits@ci.lewes.de.us

Floodplain

There are a number of properties located within the floodplain. The City has floodplain regulations that may be found here. Additional resources and information regarding floodplain can be found on the FEMA website. This site may also be used to determine if your property is located in the floodplain.

Property Maintenance/Code Enforcement

The City has adopted the ICC 2012 Property Maintenance Code. This is Chapter 148 in the City Code.