Residential Addition / Remodel Permit in Caldwell, Idaho
Required for additions, remodels, structural alterations, and accessory building permits for existing one- and two-family dwellings in Caldwell. Fences require only a permit application with minimal review. Separate trade permits required for any electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.
Verified 2026-06-29 · Source
When you need this permit
- Additions of conditioned or unconditioned space to an existing dwelling
- Structural alterations, wall modifications, basement finishes creating living space
- Decks and porches (with structural framing)
- Fences — require only building permit application and minimal review (no full plan set)
- Accessory buildings (garages, carports, sheds with electrical or exceeding exempt limits)
- Residential additions/accessory buildings: site plan at 1/20 scale, floor plan with dimensions, wall section
- Plan review fees paid in full at time of submittal
Required documents
- Req
Residential Addition Permit Packet
Guide to Residential Additions: Building Permit Guide and Application Packet; available at cityofcaldwell.org/files/assets/city/v/1/building/documents/permit-apps/residential-addition-packet.pdf
- Req
Construction Drawings
Site plan (1/20 scale), floor plan, wall section showing framing, insulation, and roof system
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit — valuation-based per Table 1 | $34.00 (≤$499); $34.00 + $0.02624/$ ($500–$1,999); $64.37 + $0.01135/$ ($2,000–$24,999); $326.54 + $0.0085/$ ($25,000–$49,999); etc. | Caldwell Building Safety Fees Resolution No. 300-25, Table 1 |
| Residential Building Plan Review Fee | 40% of building permit fee | Resolution No. 300-25, Section I-D-2a |
| Planning & Zoning Plan Review Fee | 35% of building permit fee (minimum $55.00) | Resolution No. 300-25, Section I-D-2b |
| Engineering Plan Review Fee | 20% of building permit fee | Resolution No. 300-25, Section I-D-2c |
| Reinspection (3rd inspection / 2nd reinspection for same segment) | $60.00 | Resolution No. 300-25, Section V-C; first reinspection at no charge |
Review timeline
7–10 business days
Caldwell’s published plan-review target
Inspection process
- 1
Framing / Structural
After framing complete, before walls covered — verify structure, blocking, egress
- 2
MEP Rough-In
Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical rough-ins before wall cover (under separate trade permits)
- 3
Final
All work complete per approved plans; Certificate of Completion issued
Tips
- Fences only require a completed building permit application and minimal review — no full plan set required.
- Separate permits are required for all electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work in additions and remodels.
- Caldwell's residential plan review target is 7–10 business days (extendable up to 5 additional business days based on workload).
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for a fence in Caldwell?
- Yes, but only a completed building permit application is needed — fences require minimal review without a full plan set per the Building Permit Application Information guide.
- Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Caldwell?
- Yes, if the project involves framing, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work, or creates living space. Separate trade permits are required for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical installations.
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-06-29.
- City of Caldwell Department of Building Safety — official building department
- Residential Addition Permit Packet (PDF)
- Applications and Forms | City of Caldwell Building Safety
- Building Safety Fees — Resolution No. 300-25 (PDF)
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Caldwell building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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