Homer, AK - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

The City of Homer does NOT have an adopted building code and does NOT issue building permits. Homer administers Zoning Permits (required before clearing or new construction). The State of Alaska Fire Marshal has jurisdiction over all commercial structures and residential buildings with more than 3 units. Public Works permits water and sewer connections to city utilities.

Department

City of Homer Planning Department

Address

Homer City Hall, 491 E Pioneer Avenue, Homer, AK 99603

Phone

(907) 235-3106

Website

https://www.cityofhomer-ak.gov/planning

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Create an account at https://ci-homer-ak.smartgovcommunity.com/Public/Home.
2. Determine zoning of the parcel and applicable setbacks, use restrictions, and development standards.
3. Prepare site plan showing location and dimensions of proposed construction relative to property lines and existing structures.
4. For commercial buildings: obtain State of Alaska Fire Marshal Certification before constructing a commercial building.
5. Determine whether a Development Activity Plan (DAP) is required for erosion and sediment control during construction.
6. Determine whether a Stormwater Plan (SWP) is required for projects that exceed development thresholds.
7. Submit Zoning Permit application through SmartGov portal (or in person). Attach all required documents.
8. Planning staff reviews application; zoning permit review is up to 10 working days after complete submittal.
9. Zoning permit is issued; construction may begin.
10. Public Works permits and inspects water and sewer connections separately.

Typical processing time: Up to 10 working days for zoning permit review after complete submittal

Source: City of Homer Planning Department

General Requirements

Zoning permits are required prior to clearing or new construction, including additions. No building permit (structural code enforcement) is issued -- Homer has no adopted building code.

Required Documents

• Completed zoning permit application
• Site plan showing lot dimensions, existing and proposed structures, setbacks from property lines, access, and any other relevant site features
• Additional documents (DAP, SWP, fire marshal documentation) may be required depending on project scope

Building code

None. The City of Homer has not adopted a building code and does not have a building inspector. State Fire Marshal codes (13 AAC 50) apply to commercial structures and multi-family residential (3 or more units) statewide.

Owner-builder

Not applicable -- no building code enforcement program

Contractor requirements

State of Alaska contractor licensing applies for licensed trades (electrical, plumbing, mechanical). No local contractor registration requirement found.

Fees

Plan check fee

No plan check fee (no building code program)

Permit fee formula

Flat or tiered fee by project type; zoning permit fees increase if construction begins without a permit (double fee: residential increases to $450, commercial increases to $800)

Reinspection fee

Permit-after-the-fact penalty: residential zoning permit fee doubles to $450; commercial doubles to $800

Payment note

Payments accepted through SmartGov portal and at City Hall; contact department for accepted payment methods

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Small accessory buildings (tool sheds, greenhouses) under 200 square feet, detached from a main building -- exempt from zoning permitting but must still meet setback and other code requirements
• No structural building permit is required for any project (Homer has no building code or building inspector)
• Minor land maintenance and repair not involving new construction or additions

Inspections

How to Schedule

• (907) 235-3106 (phone)

Inspection hours

Planning Department office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Typical inspection sequence: Homer has no building inspection program. Zoning compliance may be reviewed by Planning staff at the time of permit application. Public Works inspects utility connections.

Additional Resources

• Building code: None. The City of Homer has not adopted a building code and does not have a building inspector. State Fire Marshal codes (13 AAC 50) apply to commercial structures and multi-family residential (3 or more units) statewide.
• Verify contractor license: Alaska Contractor Registration
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• Building code information
• Commercial project permitting
• Frequently asked questions
• State of Alaska Fire Marshal
• Public Works (utility connections)
• License lookup guide: Alaska Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Alaska Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Alaska hub: Alaska Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Homer Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Homer, AK?

Zoning permits are required prior to clearing or new construction, including additions. No building permit (structural code enforcement) is issued -- Homer has no adopted building code.

How much does a building permit cost in Homer, AK?

Fees are calculated as: Flat or tiered fee by project type; zoning permit fees increase if construction begins without a permit (double fee: residential increases to $450, commercial increases to $800). Plan check fee: No plan check fee (no building code program).

How do I apply for a building permit in Homer, AK?

1. Create an account at https://ci-homer-ak.smartgovcommunity.com/Public/Home. 2. Determine zoning of the parcel and applicable setbacks, use restrictions, and development standards. 3. Prepare site plan showing location and dimensions of proposed construction relative to property lines and existing structures. 4. For commercial buildings: obtain State of Alaska Fire Marshal Certification before constructing a commercial building. 5. Determine whether a Development Activity Plan (DAP) is required for erosion and sediment control during construction. 6. Determine whether a Stormwater Plan (SWP) is required for projects that exceed development thresholds. 7. Submit Zoning Permit application through SmartGov portal (or in person). Attach all required documents. 8. Planning staff reviews application; zoning permit review is up to 10 working days after complete submittal. 9. Zoning permit is issued; construction may begin. 10. Public Works permits and inspects water and sewer connections separately.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Homer, AK?

Typical processing time is Up to 10 working days for zoning permit review after complete submittal.

What work is exempt from building permits in Homer, AK?

The following work is generally exempt: Small accessory buildings (tool sheds, greenhouses) under 200 square feet, detached from a main building -- exempt from zoning permitting but must still meet setback and other code requirements; No structural building permit is required for any project (Homer has no building code or building inspector); Minor land maintenance and repair not involving new construction or additions.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Homer, AK?

Inspections can be scheduled via: (907) 235-3106.

Other cities in Kenai Peninsula Borough