Building Permit Information

The City and Borough of of Wrangell requires permits and licenses for certain activities. The most commonly used forms can be found on-line under the Department that issues the permit.

Development activities, either residential, commercial or industrial, may require permits approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission.  All commercial and industrial construction requires State of Alaska Fire Marshal review prior to a local building permit's issuance. 

The City and Borough of Wrangell reminds the public that a Building Permit is required for the erection, construction, moving, alteration, enlargement, repair, or conversion of structures located within the Borough.

Building Permits are required in order to ensure that all projects adhere to building codes, zoning requirements, height requirements, setbacks, minimum lot size, and permitted uses, which vary throughout the Borough.

Attached is a copy of the Building Permit.  This form, which can be obtained from the Capital Projects Department or from City Hall (as well as printed form the website), must be filled out and the appropriate permit fees paid.  The Capital Projects Department will issue the permit and be able to answer questions you may have regarding the building requirements.  The Zoning Administrator and/or Electrical Superintendent may also need to sign the permit to confirm compliance with various other codes.

Other construction or land development activities may require state and federal permits.  It is incumbent upon the developer to obtain the necessary state and federal approvals. While there is no City and Borough of Wrangell-issued business license, all businesses operating with the Borough are required to have a State Business License.

Feel free to call any of the Departments to ask if any permits or licenses are required and what the procedure is. Staff will help guide you through the development and permitting process.

Do I Need A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Wetland Permit?

Your land development may require a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wetland permit if the activity falls under certain criteria.  The USACE regulates the discharge of dredged and/or fill material into all Waters of the U.S. A discharge of fill material is the placement of material that raises the bottom elevation of a Water of the U.S. or causes it to become uplands.  The USACE also regulate any work and/or structures placed in, over, or under navigable waters.  The brochure included below, entitled "USACE Regulatory Brochure" outlines the various types of work and permits that fall under their wetland permitting program. 

View this video that provides applicants a How to Apply overview: https://www.poa.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory/How-to-Apply/

View this video that explains the general concept and purpose of the program:  https://youtu.be/Y_xlh9nr4z