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Type your zip code or city name — instantly see fees, timelines, required documents, and exactly what you need to get your permit approved.

Popular: San Diego

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Permit Guides

Popular guides by city

Detailed building permit requirements, fee schedules, and approval timelines for the most searched cities in America.

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Browse by Project

What kind of project are you doing?

Find permit requirements for the most common home projects — each one has its own rules, fees, and timelines.

Kitchen remodel permit
Kitchen Remodel
Usually required
Bathroom renovation permit
Bathroom Renovation
Plumbing permit required
Deck or patio permit
Deck & Patio
Structural permit needed
Electrical work permit
Electrical Work
Always required
Home addition permit
Home Addition
Full building permit
New home construction permit
New Construction
Full permit package
Roofing permit
Roofing
Varies by city
Plumbing permit
Plumbing
Permit required
Browse Permit Requirements →
Community Discussions

What Homeowners Are Saying About Building Permits

Real discussions from r/homeimprovement, r/DIY, and more — curated from thousands of conversations about permits, renovations, and code compliance. Updated every 4 hours.

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FAQ

Common questions

Everything homeowners ask before starting the permit process.

It depends on the project type and your city. Generally, structural work (additions, decks), electrical panel upgrades, HVAC replacements, and plumbing changes require permits. Minor cosmetic work usually does not. Search your zip code above to see the exact rules for your jurisdiction.
Timelines vary dramatically by city — from 1 business day for simple over-the-counter permits to 8+ weeks for complex projects in large cities. Enter your zip code to see the typical approval timeline in your jurisdiction.
Building without a required permit can result in fines, forced removal of unpermitted work, complications when selling your home, insurance claim denials, and personal liability. It's not worth the risk. The permit process exists to ensure your project is safe.
Our permit guides are completely free for homeowners. We connect homeowners with licensed contractors and permit services when they want professional help — that's how we keep the lights on.
In most jurisdictions, homeowners can pull their own permits for work on their primary residence. Commercial projects and some trade work (electrical, plumbing in some states) may require a licensed contractor to apply. Our search results include contractor requirements for your specific city.