Building permit requirements for churches in USA

[Conceivia]

Is there a federal law, or a state law (specify which) that says that churches do not need building permits to build buildings on church property?

Tony

 

[atpollard]

Is there a federal law, or a state law (specify which) that says that churches do not need building permits to build buildings on church property?

Tony

NO!!!

Building codes actually tend to be Local (the city if you are in the city, or the County if you are not within the city limits.
Churches most certainly are required to build according to the local code.
They are usually required to build according to the local Commercial Code (like a store or theater rather than a private house).
They are required to get both a Site Development permit for changes to the land (like adding parking for the new building) and a Building Permit for any actual structures (including things like a flagpole).

Where Churches tend to get special treatment in the code is that church uses are allowed in any zoning district.

 

[BSM1]

Is there a federal law, or a state law (specify which) that says that churches do not need building permits to build buildings on church property?

Tony

Absolutely not. They have to meet code requirements like any other commercial building (see atpollard's post).

 

[Conceivia]

Been doing some research, it it seems that churches exist outside the law.

Ecclesiastical Authority of the Pastor! | StartCHURCH Everything You Need to Start a Ministry

 

[BSM1]

Been doing some research, it it seems that churches exist outside the law.

Ecclesiastical Authority of the Pastor! | StartCHURCH Everything You Need to Start a Ministry

This has nothing to do with church buildings.