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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Dover
New buildings, additions, changes to existing buildings, fences, pools, and some repairs. The department enforces ICC Building, Plumbing, and Mechanical Codes. Permits are issued for new construction, signs, fences, demolition, and mobile homes.
Note: Specific exemptions not published online; contact Planning and Inspections at (302) 736-7010 or review city code. Generally: ordinary maintenance and cosmetic repairs (painting, flooring, non-structural) typically do not require permits, but rules vary; confirm with department
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Construction plans
- Site plan
- Additional documents vary by project type (see brochures at https://www.cityofdover.gov/pi-forms-and-brochures)
- Building code
- IBC 2009, IRC 2009, IPC 2018, IMC 2018, IFGC 2018, IECC 2018 (with DNREC amendments), IEBC 2009. Note: Confirm current adopted editions with department.
- Permit validity
- Not published; contact department
- Owner-builder
- Not published; contact department
- Contractor requirements
- Delaware state contractor license required
Application process
Typical processing: Not published; contact office at (302) 736-7010
- 01 Determine permit type and gather required plans and documents
- 02 Submit Building Permit Application (available as PDF or through Citizen Portal)
- 03 Planning and Inspections staff review for code compliance (IBC, IRC, IMC, IPC, IECC, IEBC)
- 04 Pay permit fees (valuation-based per ICC tables plus local amendments)
- 05 Permit is issued upon approval
- 06 Post permit on job site
- 07 Schedule required inspections through the department
- 08 Pass all inspections
- 09 Obtain certificate of occupancy upon final inspection
Typical processing time: Not published; contact office at (302) 736-7010
Fee schedule
Dover building permit fees
Fees paid at time of permit issuance; contact department for current schedule
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (302) 736-7010 (phone)
- permitsandlicenses@dover.de.us (email)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Plan review, rough-in inspections (plumbing, electrical, mechanical), framing, insulation, final
Frequently asked
Common questions about Dover permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Dover, DE? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Dover, DE? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Dover, DE? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Dover, DE? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Dover, DE? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Planning and Inspections Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.