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1. What is a building permit?

A building permit is a license that grants legal permission to start construction of a building project. Permits allow the enforcement of the codes that have been adopted as law by state, county, township or city and they provide the means for Code Officials to inspect construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used. You have an investment in the home or business you are about to build or remodel. When that home or business building does not comply with the codes, your investment could be reduced.

2. When do I need a building permit?

A permit is required for any construction that physically changes or adds structure to your property or for work regulated by county codes or ordinances. Please see the When a Building Permit is Required page for a full listing. When a Building Permit is Required Page

3. What do I need in order to obtain a permit?

Your project must be submitted in graphic form along with a complete application(s). These construction drawings or plans must show all proposed work and details of compliance to Building Codes and Zoning Ordinances for most residential projects. Plans of insufficient clarity or detail will be returned without review. Please click the link below to access our checklists under Building Project Requirements:

Building Project Requirements Page

4. When may I start building?

No construction is allowed until the permit is issued. Once the permit application and accompanying plans have been submitted, it will take the Building Department about 3 to 5 days to review and process the plans. Following approval of the plan and payment of fees, a permit will be mailed or can be picked up at the office.

5. When do I need inspections?

The type and number of inspections depend on the project. Please see the When Inspections are Required page for a full listing. When Inspections are Required Page

6. May I change my mind on my building project?

If you want to change your project, submit a revised set of plans to the Building Department that clearly show the revisions in relationship to the approved plans. The revisions must be approved by the Building Official.

7. How much will a permit cost?

Building permit fees are determined by the valuation based on Building Valuation Data compiled by I.C.C. Building Standards. Please feel free to contact the Building Department Secretary, 989-224-5181 at for a rough estimate on your project.

8. How long is a permit active?

Once a permit is issued, construction must commence within 180 days. Construction may not stop completely for more than 180 days. If this time period is exceeded, the permit will automatically expire and a new application for a building permit is necessary.

9. Can I be my own contractor and take out my own permits?

The Michigan Licensing Law gives a homeowner an exemption to act as his or her own general contractor. This means in the case of his or her own single-family residence, that they will occupy, the homeowner may obtain a building permit for construction at his or her own home. Even though a licensed or unlicensed builder may be significantly involved. Please see the Homeowner Acting as the General Contractor page for additional information. Homeowner Acting as the General Contractor Page