Personally, I would not get a permit for anything that can’t be seen/monitored from the street or from Google satellite photos. But, that’s just me.
I would permit an electrical service upgrade, and the deck. Even though you are supposed to get a permit for moving walls and electrical, I’d just do it. The permits themselves aren’t bad part – but permits bring inspectors.
Who knows what the building inspector will see in your house and make you do, unrelated to the project at hand. Get the wrong building inspector and your life will be hell.
You can still hire good professionals even if you don’t have a permit
