Your project begins at the permit counter—not with demolition. Identify the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), confirm exactly what the scope triggers and obtain approvals before regulated work begins.
- Confirm jurisdiction.Call the municipality or its certified third-party agency. Ask about zoning, historic review and trade permits.
- Define the scope.Prepare applications, drawings, contractor information, values and specifications requested by the AHJ.
- Submit and respond.Track plan-review comments and revisions. Do not assume submission equals approval.
- Post and inspect.Keep permits available, schedule required inspections before covering work and document each result.
- Close the file.Complete finals and obtain any required Certificate of Occupancy or Use & Occupancy approval.
Common permits to investigate
Building / Alteration
Structural changes, additions, framing, stairs, egress and many substantial renovations.
Demolition
Structural demolition or full removal; selective interior demo rules vary locally.
Electrical
Service, panels, new circuits, rewiring, devices and other regulated electrical work.
Plumbing
New or relocated supply, drain, vent, fixtures, water heaters and sewer work.
Mechanical / HVAC
Heating, cooling, ductwork, gas piping and equipment changes where regulated.
Roof / Windows / Exterior
Roofing, window openings, siding and exterior repairs when separately regulated.
Zoning / Historic
Footprint, use, setbacks, exterior changes, signs or work in a historic district.
Utility / Site
Water, sewer, septic, wells, grading, driveways, dumpsters or right-of-way use.
Occupancy / Closeout
Final inspections and any Certificate of Occupancy or Use & Occupancy requirement.
INTERACTIVE PRACTICE
Permit Fee Builder
Educational estimator only. Enter the current figures supplied by the issuing authority.