Guide
Siding permits, HOAs and historic districts in Rochester Hills
What the City of Rochester Hills publishes about siding and permits, and the other approvals that can apply. If you live in Rochester, Troy, Auburn Hills or a township, see your town page instead.
What the city says
The city's Guide to Neighborhood Living lists the work that does and does not need a building permit. On the no-permit list: aluminum or vinyl siding with no structural work, and repair or replacement of windows and doors with no structural work. On the permit list: all work involving structural changes, re-roofing and additions.
The guide says to call the Building Department on (248) 656-4615 if you are unsure. The department's office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except holidays (city phone directory).
Applications are made online through the city's BS&A system, and residential contractors must register with the Building Department before applying for a permit (city permit application guide).
Practical reading: replacing vinyl or aluminum siding on a sound wall is on the no-permit list. If the contractor finds rotted framing, or you are switching to fiber cement, engineered wood or wood, check with the Building Department before the work continues.
Historic districts and designated houses
Rochester Hills has two main historic districts, Stoney Creek and Winkler Mill Pond, and about 30 individual historic properties regulated by the city's historic district rules (Historic Districts).
The Historic Districts Commission approves or disapproves plans for work on resources within historic districts, under Chapter 118 of the city code. It meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month (Historic Districts Commission).
If your house is in a district or is a designated property, contact the Planning and Economic Development Department on (248) 656-4660 before changing siding. The city's roof permit guide asks owners in a historic district for a copy of the Certificate of Appropriateness with the application.
Who handles it
The contractor normally confirms permit needs and pulls any permit. Michigan's Attorney General warns to be wary if a contractor asks you to get the permit yourself (AG advice for homeowners).
Put in the contract who checks with the city, the association and, if it applies, the Historic Districts Commission.
Rochester Hills and nearby
Speak with a siding contractor who works around Rochester Hills
One call connects you with an independent siding contractor serving Rochester Hills, Rochester, Troy, Auburn Hills, Oakland Township and Shelby Township. Repairs are welcome, so is a full re-side.
Cracked panels, a wall that needs re-siding, or a new addition to clad? Talk it through.
Your call goes to an independent siding contractor that works in Rochester Hills and nearby towns. Describe the house and the problem; ask for an inspection and a written price.
Call (248) 750-8472Calls may be recorded for quality. See the referral disclosure and privacy policy.