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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Sharkey County
New construction, additions, structural alterations, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work beyond minor repairs typically require permits.
- Exempt Cosmetic work (painting, flooring, cabinets, non-structural minor repairs)
- Exempt Agricultural structures may qualify for exemptions under Mississippi Code § 17-2-7
Note: Exemptions do not override floodplain management (NFIP) requirements. Sharkey County lies in the Mississippi Delta with significant flood zone exposure. Verify FEMA flood zone status before proceeding.
- Completed permit application
- Property description and legal description
- Scope of work and estimated project cost
- Contractor information and licensing details
- Site plan
- Architectural drawings or engineer certification (if applicable)
- Building code
- No mandatory statewide residential building code for unincorporated counties. Local requirements not published online; confirm with Chancery Clerk. Mississippi adopted the 2021 IRC as an optional framework (effective July 1, 2024).
- Permit validity
- Contact Chancery Clerk for specific permit expiration terms.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must verify contractor licensing requirements with the Chancery Clerk.
- Contractor requirements
- Residential construction $50,000+: MSBOC residential license required. Residential remodeling/additions over $10,000: MSBOC license required. Commercial projects $50,000+: MSBOC commercial license required. MSBOC: (800) 880-6161 | msboc.us
Application process
Typical processing: Not specified publicly; contact the Chancery Clerk's office for current turnaround time. Post-tornado recovery may affect processing capacity.
- 01 Contact the Chancery Clerk's office by phone at (662) 873-2755 or visit 120 Locust Street during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
- 02 Confirm whether the specific project type and location require a county-level permit
- 03 Obtain application form and documentation requirements
- 04 Complete application with full project details: property description, legal description, scope of work, estimated cost, contractor information
- 05 Submit application with supporting documents (site plan, architectural drawings, engineer certification if applicable)
- 06 Pay applicable permit fee (contact office for current fee schedule)
- 07 Receive permit and inspection schedule
- 08 Schedule required inspections at key construction phases
- 09 Obtain final approval or Certificate of Occupancy upon passing final inspection
Typical processing time: Not specified publicly; contact the Chancery Clerk's office for current turnaround time. Post-tornado recovery may affect processing capacity.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (662) 873-2755 (phone)
- 120 Locust Street, Rolling Fork, MS 39159 (in-person)
- Scheduling deadline
- Contact office for scheduling details and notice requirements.
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: Foundation/footings (prior to concrete), Framing (prior to sheathing), MEP rough-in, Insulation, Final inspection before occupancy.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Sharkey County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Sharkey County, MS? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Sharkey County, MS? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Sharkey County, MS? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Sharkey County, MS? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Sharkey County, MS? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Chancery Clerk's Office / Board of Supervisors before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.