Enter your zip code to get permit requirements, costs, and resources specific to your area.
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Most homeowners can pull a permit in under 2 weeks when they know exactly what to do. Here's the path.
Enter your ZIP code to get the specific permit type, application forms, required documents, and fee schedule for your exact jurisdiction. Rules vary dramatically city-to-city — know yours before you start.
Gather your site plan, project description, and contractor info (if applicable). Use our Permit Filing Wizard to auto-fill common application forms with your project details — no handwriting required.
Most jurisdictions accept online submissions through their permit portal, with in-person and mail options available. Submit your completed application and pay the permit fee. Simple permits are often approved same-day.
Schedule required inspections at key project milestones (framing, rough electrical, final). Once all inspections pass and sign off, your permit is closed and your project is officially code-compliant — protecting your home's value and your homeowner's insurance.
Different projects require different permits. Here's what each one covers and when you need it.
Required for new construction, additions, major renovations, and any work that changes a structure's footprint or load-bearing elements. This is the most comprehensive permit type and typically involves architectural plans and multiple inspections at framing, insulation, and final stages.
Required for panel upgrades, new circuits, EV charger installations, generator hookups, and significant rewiring. In most states, a licensed electrician must pull the permit (or a homeowner for their primary residence). Inspections ensure wiring meets the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Required for water heater replacements, new fixture installations, drain line work, and gas piping. Plumbing permits protect against improper venting (which causes carbon monoxide buildup) and cross-connections between potable and non-potable water systems.
Required for furnace and AC replacements, ductwork, ventilation systems, and mini-split installations. HVAC permits ensure equipment is sized correctly, refrigerant is handled properly, and combustion appliances are safely vented — preventing carbon monoxide hazards.
Required in most jurisdictions for full roof replacements and structural roof repairs. Some areas also require permits for re-roofing over existing shingles. Roof inspections verify decking, underlayment, flashing, and ventilation meet local building codes and wind load requirements.
Solar PV installations require both a structural permit (roof loading) and an electrical permit (inverter and grid interconnection). Many states have adopted streamlined solar permitting to reduce timelines to under 3 days. Battery storage systems (like Tesla Powerwall) typically need a separate electrical permit.
Local permit data is scattered across government sites, fee schedules, and outdated PDFs. We aggregate it all so you don't have to.
Stop hunting across 10 government websites. We aggregate permit requirements, fees, and timelines for 41,000+ zip codes so you get accurate local data instantly.
Permit fees vary wildly by city and county. Our cost calculator uses real local fee schedules to give you an honest estimate before you even call the permit office.
Every tool on this site is completely free. Cost calculators, permit checklists, step-by-step guides, jurisdiction lookups — no paywalls, no sign-up required.
Use our free permit tools to estimate costs, build your checklist, and understand the process step by step.
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Helping people navigate permits without the headache since day one.
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