Inspection Services Department
Building Permits • Rental Inspections • Code Enforcement • Development Review
Apply for a Permit Online
Most permit applications must be submitted through the City’s online permit portal. Paper forms are accepted only when online submission is not possible.
What Permit Do I Need?
Use this guide to select the correct application:
Building Permit Application
Use this application for work regulated under Chapter 156, including buildings, structures, decks, garages, sheds, additions, remodels, signs, fences, retaining walls, demolition, and work involving plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy, or fire-related systems.
Right of Way Permit Application
Use this application for work within the public right-of-way, including sidewalks, driveway approaches, street cuts, trenching, utility work, or similar work in public streets, sidewalk areas, or other public right-of-way areas.
Sidewalk installation, repair, or replacement and driveway approaches located within the public right-of-way require a Right of Way Permit Application and are not processed under a Building Permit.
What to Submit With Your Application
Applications may require:
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Site plan showing property lines and setbacks
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Construction drawings with dimensions
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Structural details where applicable
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Manufacturer specifications (when applicable)
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Energy compliance documentation (when required)
Incomplete applications may delay review.
What Happens After You Apply
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Submit application online
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Staff review (typically 3–5 business days for complete applications)
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You will be contacted by email if additional information or corrections are required
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Once approved, an invoice will be emailed through the permit portal
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Pay online prior to permit issuance
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After payment, your approved permit will be available in the portal
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Follow the inspection schedule listed on your permit
Do I Need a Permit?
A permit is required for work regulated under Chapter 156 of the Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code.
Right-of-Way Work:
Sidewalk installation, repair, or replacement and driveway approaches located within the public right-of-way require a Right of Way Permit Application and are not processed under a Building Permit.
In general, a permit is required before work begins for:
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New buildings, additions, or changes to existing buildings
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Structural repairs, alterations, or reconstruction
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Demolition or removal of buildings or structures
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Fences, retaining walls, and signs
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Accessory structures (garages, sheds, decks)
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Work affecting plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy, or fire protection systems
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Major repairs as defined in Chapter 156
Common Residential Projects That Require a Permit
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Deck construction or replacement
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Basement finishing
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Detached garages and sheds
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Fences and retaining walls
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Roof replacement
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Window and door replacement (where structural changes occur)
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Interior remodels affecting structure
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Furnace, air conditioner, or water heater replacement
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Plumbing or mechanical alterations
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Fireplaces or fuel gas installation
Permits are required prior to the start of work.
Work That May Not Require a Permit
Some minor work may not require a permit, including:
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Cosmetic work such as painting, flooring, cabinets, or trim
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Minor repairs that do not affect structural elements
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Routine maintenance and upkeep
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Replacement of fixtures without modifying plumbing, mechanical, or electrical systems
Important:
Exemptions are limited and depend on the scope of work.
When in doubt, contact Inspection Services before starting work.
Starting Work Without a Required Permit
Beginning work without first obtaining a required permit may result in:
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Double permit fees, as provided by Chapter 156
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Required correction or removal of non-compliant work
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Additional inspections, re-inspection fees, or enforcement action
Paying for Permits
Permit fees are paid through the City’s online permitting system. Once your application is approved, you will receive an email with an invoice and a link to pay online.
Do not begin work until the permit is issued and paid.
Online payments may include a processing fee.
Need help? Call City Hall at 712-943-4244.
Inspection Scheduling
Inspections should be requested at least one business day in advance at 712-943-9618.
Need help? Call City Hall at 712-943-4244.
Other City Payments (PSN)
Payment Service Network (PSN) is used for certain non-permit City payments. Use this system only if you were directed to PSN by City staff.
Need help making the payment call City Hall (712) 943-4244
Electrical Permits (State of Iowa)
All electrical permits and inspections are administered by the State of Iowa Electrical Inspector for Woodbury County.
To apply for an electrical permit or request an inspection, visit:
https://iowaelectrical.gov
Report a Concern
To report a nuisance or code concern, use the City’s online reporting form.
Paper complaints are accepted only if online submission is not available.
Rental Properties
All rental properties must be registered and inspected in accordance with Chapter 158 – Rental Housing Property Maintenance Code.
Rental registrations must be submitted through the City’s online registration system when available. Printable forms may be used only when online submission is not possible.
Once registration is submitted, contact Inspection Services to schedule the required inspection.
Reference: Chapter 158 – Rental Housing Property Maintenance Code
Rental Property Registration Application Form: Click this link for a Printable PDF [PDF, 83.37 KB] or Click this link for an Online Fillable form
Chapter 158 Rental Housing Property Maintenance Code
Contact Information
Aaron Johnson
Building Inspector / Code Enforcement Officer
Office: 712-943-9618
Mobile: 712-899-9956
aaronj@cityofsergeantbluff.com
Joe Yocum
Rental Inspector / Code Enforcement Officer
Mobile: 712-941-9061
jyocum@cityofsergeantbluff.com
Office Location
401 4th Street (Inside the Police Department)
Phone: 712-943-9618