Confirm your project requires a building permitCriticalMost structural work, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes require permits. Minor cosmetic work (painting, flooring, landscaping) typically does not. Contact your local building department if unsure — working without a required permit can result in fines, forced removal, and problems selling your home.
Verify your project complies with current zoning requirementsCriticalBefore applying for a building permit, confirm that your project meets zoning standards for setbacks, height, lot coverage, FAR (Floor Area Ratio), and permitted uses. Zoning approval is usually required before a building permit can be issued.
Check which building code edition your jurisdiction usesMost US jurisdictions adopt some version of the International Building Code (IBC) for commercial or the International Residential Code (IRC) for residential projects, but the specific edition and local amendments vary by city and state.
Determine if your project is in a flood zone, historic district, or overlay zoneProperties in FEMA flood zones must meet elevation and construction standards. Historic districts may require design review approval before a permit is issued. Overlay zones can impose additional requirements beyond standard zoning.
Check if HOA approval is needed before applyingIf your property is in an HOA, check the CC&Rs for architectural review requirements. Many HOAs require written approval for exterior changes before you apply for a permit.

Prepare a site plan showing the property boundaries, existing structures, and proposed workCriticalA site plan (also called a plot plan) shows your lot with dimensions, setback lines, existing buildings, and the location of proposed construction. Most building departments require this to verify zoning compliance. A licensed surveyor may be needed for accurate boundary information.
Prepare architectural drawings or construction plansCriticalPlans should include floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and structural details. For simple projects, some jurisdictions accept basic drawings; for larger projects, plans stamped by a licensed architect or engineer are typically required.
Include structural engineering calculations if requiredProjects involving new foundations, load-bearing wall modifications, retaining walls, or structures in seismic or high-wind zones often require stamped structural engineering calculations.
Prepare mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) plans if applicableSeparate permits may be required for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work. These plans show the layout of systems and must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC), Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), and applicable mechanical codes.
Obtain an energy compliance report or calculationsMost jurisdictions require proof of energy code compliance (based on the International Energy Conservation Code or state-specific standards like California Title 24). This typically includes insulation specs, window ratings, and HVAC efficiency calculations.
Gather a property survey if required by your jurisdictionSome building departments require a current property survey, especially for new construction, additions, or projects near property lines. Surveys confirm legal boundaries and help verify setback compliance.

Complete the building permit application formCriticalFill out all required fields accurately. Include the project address, scope of work, estimated construction cost, and contractor information. Incomplete applications are a common reason for delays.
Calculate and prepare payment for permit feesPermit fees are typically based on the project's valuation or square footage. Fees may include plan review fees, impact fees, utility connection fees, and school fees. Contact the building department for a fee schedule before submitting.
Submit copies of contractor licenses and insuranceMost jurisdictions require licensed contractors for permitted work. You will need to provide the contractor's license number, proof of insurance, and sometimes a bond. Homeowners may be able to pull permits for work they do themselves (owner-builder permits).
Provide proof of property ownershipA deed, tax bill, or title report is typically required to confirm you have the legal right to make improvements to the property.

Track your application status and respond promptly to correctionsPlan review timelines vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the jurisdiction and project complexity. Many departments offer online tracking. Correction requests (also called plan check comments) are common — address them quickly to avoid delays.
Schedule a pre-construction meeting if requiredSome jurisdictions or projects require a pre-construction meeting with the building inspector to review the scope of work, inspection schedule, and site access before work begins.
Post the building permit visibly at the job siteCriticalOnce approved, the permit must typically be posted at the construction site in a visible location. Work cannot begin until the permit is posted and all conditions of approval are met.

Schedule required inspections at each construction milestoneCriticalCommon inspection points include: foundation/footing, framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, mechanical rough-in, insulation, and final inspection. Never cover work (e.g., close up walls) before the required inspection is passed.
Keep approved plans and permits accessible on siteInspectors will compare the work to the approved plans. Any deviations from approved plans may require a plan revision or amendment to the permit.
Address failed inspections promptlyIf an inspection fails, the inspector will provide a correction notice. Fix the issues and schedule a re-inspection. Multiple failures can delay the project and increase costs.
Obtain final inspection approval and certificate of occupancyCriticalA final inspection confirms all work meets code and matches the approved plans. For new construction or change of use, a certificate of occupancy (CO) is required before the building can be legally occupied. Keep this document — you will need it when selling the property.

Building Permit Checklist