Choose the project closest to the complete scope. One job may require several guides and several permit streams.
Building Permits ExplainedUnderstand what a residential building permit does, what it does not decide, and why the issuing authority matters.Building Permit vs. Zoning ApprovalSeparate construction-code review from land-use permission, setbacks, use, parking, lot coverage and density.Projects That May Not Need a Building PermitMinor cosmetic work may be exempt, while electrical, plumbing, HOA, historic or other requirements can still apply.New Home ConstructionPlan zoning, utilities, grading, structural review, energy requirements, trade permits, inspections and occupancy approval.Home AdditionsRoom additions, second stories and attached expansions can affect setbacks, structure, utilities and egress.ADUs and Garage ConversionsAccessory dwelling units and garage conversions can involve zoning, parking, fire separation, utilities and legal occupancy.Interior RemodelsWalls, room arrangements, exits, stairs, structural framing and concealed systems can change the permit path.Kitchen and Bathroom RemodelsCabinet and finish changes may be minor, while fixture moves, wiring, ventilation and structural work often require review.Basement FinishingResearch ceiling height, egress, moisture, insulation, bedrooms, stairs, utilities and possible dwelling-unit rules.Decks, Porches and BalconiesHeight, size, attachment, foundations, guards, stairs, setbacks and wildfire exposure can affect approval.Garages and CarportsAttached and detached vehicle structures may involve setbacks, fire separation, driveways and utilities.Sheds and Accessory BuildingsSmall-structure exemptions may not remove setback, height, lot-coverage, anchoring or utility rules.Fences and Retaining WallsHeight, location, corner visibility, pool barriers, drainage and soil loading can trigger different approvals.Pools and SpasPools, hot tubs and spas can involve barriers, gates, electrical bonding, setbacks, drainage and equipment placement.Plumbing PermitsNew fixtures, drains, vents, water heaters, service lines and backflow devices may require separate permits and inspections.Electrical PermitsPanels, circuits, service changes, generators, EV charging and other electrical work are often permitted separately.HVAC and Fuel-Gas PermitsHeating, cooling, ventilation, ductwork, gas piping and combustion equipment may require trade permits and inspections.Demolition PermitsDemolition may involve utility shutoffs, asbestos or lead rules, waste handling, site protection and historic review.Septic, Wells and Rural PropertyLocal health or environmental departments commonly oversee septic permits, while wells, access and grading may use other authorities.Historic District and Tree ApprovalsLocal preservation commissions, protected trees and landscape ordinances can apply in addition to building permits.Driveways, Curb Cuts and Right-of-Way PermitsWork near streets, sidewalks, alleys and utility corridors may require separate public-works permission.Solar, EV Charging and Battery StorageRoof structure, electrical capacity, equipment location, utility interconnection and fire-code review may all matter.Floodplain, Coastal and Wildfire-Area ProjectsLocation-based hazard rules can change design, materials, elevation, access and documentation requirements.Manufactured and Mobile HomesManufactured-home projects may involve state programs, local installation permits, foundations, utilities and park approvals.