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1. What type of project requires a permit?

Building permits are required for:

• Accessory buildings
• Finishing previously unfinished spaces
• New construction
• Patios
• Fences
• Remodeling that includes structural, electrical or plumbing changes

Additional regulations are listed in the City of Sioux Center Code of Ordinances (PDF).

2. What are the construction requirements for the back yard?

You are allowed to construct a 120-square-foot accessory building with a permit. It should be placed 10 feet from the property to avoid utility lines.

• Permits are required for any accessory building
• If the accessory building faces an alley, it must be set back 15 feet.
• No accessory buildings are allowed in the front or side yards.
• Accessory buildings for any single-family residential dwelling in the RS, R-1, R-2, or R-3 zoning districts shall be limited to a maximum of two (2) total buildings, including a detached garage, of which all total accessory buildings shall not occupy more than nine (9) percent – 800 sq. ft. of the lot area. (lot area x 9% - 800sq.ft.) The maximum accessory building size shall not exceed a total square footage of 1,800 square feet. However, this regulation shall not prohibit the construction of at least one accessory building not to exceed five hundred fifty (550) square feet gross building area.

3. What inspections are required for building / remodeling?

The following are required inspections for building and remodeling:

• Footing Inspection – Required before you pour concrete
• Foundation Inspection – Required before you pour concrete
• Rough-In Inspection – Required before you insulate or install drywall
• Final Inspection – Required before you occupy the newly built or remodeled space

For all inspections, please call Code Enforcement Director Joel Gonzalez at (712) 722-0761.

4. What are the size requirements for egress windows?

For regulations regarding egress windows, please view the following document. Egress Window Regulations

5. Where can I park an extra car or camper?

• All vehicles need to be parked on an approved surface of asphalt, concrete or rock.
• No vehicles are allowed to be parked in the road right of way, which is the first 20 feet behind the curb.
• No vehicles are allowed to be parked on or over the sidewalk.
• No vehicles are allowed to be stored in the front yard. Recreational vehicles may be stored in the front yard only during camping season.