Michigan Building Permits — Complete Guide (2026)
Find, Apply & Track Permits in Cities and Counties Across Michigan
Michigan has a comprehensive statewide building code administered by the Bureau of Construction Codes. Detroit and Grand Rapids lead in permit volume. Michigan's four seasons create significant demand for roofing, HVAC, and weatherization permits.
How building permits work in Michigan
Building permit requirements and processing times in Michigan vary by city and county. Use the links below to apply, check status, schedule inspections and find permit information for your location.
Learn the step-by-step permit process →Not sure where to apply?
Enter your city or address to find your permit office.
Permit costs by type — Michigan
| Permit Type | Fee Range | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | $85–$225 | 1–4 days | Licensed master electrician required |
| Plumbing | $75–$200 | 1–4 days | Licensed master plumber required |
| HVAC / Mechanical | $85–$235 | 1–4 days | Furnace replacement — very high winter volume |
| Roofing | $100–$300 | 1–4 days | Snow load design in Upper Peninsula |
| New Construction | $550–$1,600 | 2–6 weeks | Detroit metro moderating; rural faster |
| Room Addition | $275–$800 | 1–4 weeks | Frost depth 42 inches statewide |
| Deck / Patio | $100–$325 | 1–3 weeks | Frost depth footings required |
| Pool | $150–$425 | 1–3 weeks | Short season; barrier fence required |
| ADU | $275–$750 | 1–4 weeks | Some cities allowing; no statewide law |
| Solar | $85–$235 | 1–4 days | Growing market despite lower sun hours |
Major Michigan cities — apply online
Most Michigan building permits are issued by cities. Click your city to access the permit portal, apply online, or check permit status.
Permit costs by county — top Michigan counties
County building departments handle unincorporated areas. Click a county to access its permit portal directly.
How to get a building permit in Michigan
Contact your local building department
Michigan permits are issued at the city or township level. Detroit (BSEED), Grand Rapids, and Lansing have online systems. Townships use Michigan BCC licensing.
Michigan BCC licensed contractors
All electrical, plumbing, and mechanical contractors must be licensed by the Michigan Bureau of Construction Codes. Verify at Michigan LARA.
Submit application and plans
Trade permits are straightforward. Structural work requires plans. Michigan energy code compliance (MEC) is required.
Pay fees
Michigan permit fees are moderate — generally below coastal states.
Inspections
Michigan requires phase inspections. Detroit and Grand Rapids have online scheduling. Townships may have shared inspectors.
ADU permits in Michigan — what you need to know
🏠 Michigan ADU-friendly status: No statewide law
Michigan has no statewide ADU law. Ann Arbor and Detroit have updated zoning to allow ADUs. Grand Rapids passed ADU ordinances in 2023. Most Michigan townships have minimal zoning restrictions, making ADUs feasible in unincorporated areas.
Find a licensed Michigan contractor
Michigan requires licensed professionals for most permitted work. Always verify a contractor's license before hiring — it protects you and is required for most permit types.
General Contractors
Find pre-screened general contractors for your Michigan home project. Compare quotes on permitted work.
Find a Contractor →Verify MI License
Verify your contractor holds a valid Michigan LARA – Residential Builders License license before any permitted work begins.
Verify MI License →Electricians & Plumbers
Specialty-licensed electricians and plumbers are required for all permitted electrical and plumbing work in Michigan.
Learn More →Ready to get started? Browse verified, licensed contractors serving Michigan homeowners and get free quotes on your project.
🔍 Find a Contractor Near YouFrequently asked questions — Michigan permits
Disclaimer: HousePermits.com is an independent resource and is not affiliated with any government agency.