Building Permits in Dearborn

Dearborn's building-permit process is administered by the City's building/code functions. The City publishes residential building and renovation application guidance covering permit submittals, plan review and related trade permits.

Current code framework

Michigan LARA lists the 2021 Michigan Building Code as current for nonresidential building work, effective April 9, 2025. Residential work remains under the 2015 Michigan Residential Code while a court order prevents implementation of the newer residential-code rule set. Dearborn's own guidance directs applicants to the current state-adopted codes rather than treating one model-code edition as applicable to every project.

Permits and inspections

Dearborn states that separate electrical, fire-alarm, HVAC and plumbing permits may be required depending on scope. Construction documents are reviewed for applicable code and ordinance requirements, and permitted work proceeds through required inspections to final approval.

Fees and professional documents

The City's residential application guidance states that building permit fees are based on construction value and lists a $100 minimum permit fee. It also states that architectural stamped drawings are required for homes larger than 3,500 square feet; that local statement is kept narrow and is not generalized into a seal requirement for every Dearborn project.

Official sources

• Dearborn residential building/renovation application: https://dearborn.gov/sites/default/files/2024-06/Residential%20Building%20and%20Renovation%20Application%20and%20Infomation_Fillable.pdf
• Michigan LARA current code books: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc/rules-acts/codes/code-books
• Michigan LARA residential-code rule status: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc/rules-acts/rules/currently-open

Disclaimer: Verify current Dearborn forms, fee schedules, state-code status and project-specific professional-design requirements before filing.