A malicious mischief charge is (very likely) a simple misdemeanor..... he's actually pretty lucky.
A zealous prosecutor could have him up on all kinds of things.
And it's much better he dozed it than burned it; arson of a dwelling can get you.... forever in jail.
As far as permits go....... the county can KM pale fuzzy A.
In the video, he definitely has that.... Mona Lisa smile going.