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1. What do I need to do if I want to expand my existing driveway or place a driveway in a new location?

Any expansion or enlargement of an existing driveway does not require a building permit from New Castle County, but the enlargement or expansion must comply with the Unified Development Code, and an entrance permit from DelDOT may be required (see below). 

The Unified Development Code Section 40.04.110.E.1.e states: “An uncovered patio at ground level or an uncovered driveway (except for shared driveways) may project into any yard, provided it is set back from any lot line a minimum of two (2) feet.” 

Any new or modified driveway may require an entrance permit from DelDOT. Information is available from DelDOT at: https://deldot.gov/Business/entrance-permit-system/faqs/
Entrance permit information is also available by calling DelDOT at (302) 326-4679.

2. What are the requirements for installing a ramp for use by those who have a handicap?

Residential ramps:
The International Residential Code Section R311.8 deals with ramps in residential
structures. Ramps are permitted to have a slope no greater than 1:8 (1 ½ inch per foot).
Ramps must have a clear width of 36 inches. Handrails are required on at least one
side of all ramps exceeding a slope of 1:12 (1 inch per foot). A minimum 3 foot by 3 foot
landing shall be provided at the top and bottom of all ramps, where doors open onto
ramps, and where ramps change direction. A building permit is required for exterior
ramps. For interior temporary ramps, no building permit is required.
Non-residential ramps:
All non-residential ramps require building permits. All non-residential ramps follow the
International Building Code 2015 and ICC/ANSI A117.1-2009.
American with Disabilities Act:
For more information about access for handicapped men and women, you may visit the
website for the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) at http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm

3. What are the permit requirements for refinishing or remodeling my kitchen or bathroom?

A building permit is not required for:
New floor coverings
Cabinet re-facing or replacement
Paint or drywall repair
Tile work
Countertop or vanity replacement
Sink or disposal replacement
Addition of a dishwasher to existing plumbing

A building permit is required for:
Moving, replacing or constructing new walls or partitions
Relocating or installing new plumbing fixtures
Relocating or creating new windows, doors, or steps of any kind

All electrical work should be explained to the State of Delaware (302-744-4504) to
find out if an electrical permit and inspection is required.

4. What are the permit requirements for replacing the roof on my home?

The New Castle County Code Section 06.03.012 C 1 g states that a building permit is not required if the replacement of roof covering does not involve the repair or replacement of more that twenty-five (25) percent of the sheathing. The International Residential Code Section R907.3 states: “New roof coverings shall not be installed without first removing existing roof coverings where any of the following conditions occur: (1) Where the existing roof or roof covering is water-soaked or has deteriorated to the point that the existing roof or roof covering is not adequate as a base for additional roofing. (2) Where the existing roof covering is wood shake, slate, clay, cement or asbestos-cement tile. (3) Where the existing roof has two or more applications of any type of roof covering.” The Unified Development Code Section 40 04 110 E 1 b states “Chimneys, cornices and eaves may project not more than two (2) feet into any required yard.”