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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Metairie
Jefferson Parish permits are required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, change occupancy, and for most trade work; fences, sheds, carports, and permanently installed generators also require permits. In Metairie, work in MRTPD and OMNCD triggers additional review.
- Exempt Interior painting, finish work, carpeting, tiling, and similar finish work in one- and two-family dwellings when no hazardous or complex condition exists
- Exempt Non-structural paving on private property, subject to public right-of-way and overlay exceptions
- Exempt Replacement windows and doors in one- and two-family dwellings when they fit existing rough openings and do not reduce opening size
- Exempt Change of roof covering only and gutter work for one- and two-family dwellings
- Exempt Soffit or fascia replacement only on Type V B construction
- Exempt Prefabricated pools under 24 inches deep accessory to Group R Division 3 occupancy
- Exempt Replacement of non-structural exterior wall covering on one- and two-family dwellings
- Exempt Playhouses, swings, and similar playground equipment
- Exempt Construction shacks, dumpsters, or trailers during active construction
- Exempt Pile load tests and soil borings
- Exempt Replacement of fence boards and stringers with no change in posts, location, height, type, or design
- Online or paper permit application
- Owner, contractor, and design-professional contact information
- Current stamped survey
- One electronic set of stamped plans
- Plot/foundation/floor/framing/elevation details
- Contract or valuation support
- Required MRTPD, OMNCD, levee, DOTD, Environmental Affairs, or Public Works approvals, as applicable
- Building code
- Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code, plus Jefferson Parish amendments and overlay rules.
- Permit validity
- Work generally must begin within 6 months of issuance.
- Owner-builder
- An owner may obtain a permit for his or her personal residence but must submit an Affidavit Claiming Exemption from Licensure.
- Contractor requirements
- State residential contractor license required for applicable work; home-improvement work between $7,500 and $75,000 requires state home-improvement registration plus a valid Jefferson Parish Home Improvement License.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Confirm whether the property is in MRTPD or OMNCD and whether additional tree-preservation, planning, levee, floodplain, or Public Works approvals apply.
- 02 Create an MGO account or file in person with the Building Permits office.
- 03 Upload or submit the permit application, current stamped survey, stamped plans, contract/valuation backup, and any required overlay or outside-agency approvals.
- 04 Parish staff route the application for plan review and any required engineering, zoning, levee, or overlay review.
- 05 Pay permit fees when invoiced or when the application is accepted, depending on permit type.
- 06 Receive the permit, complete work, and obtain required inspections or submit geotagged re-roof photos if applicable.
Fee schedule
Metairie building permit fees
Online payments are supported through parish permitting systems.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Jefferson Parish permitting channels and trade sections (online)
Typical sequence: Permit issuance, trade filings as needed, rough and final inspections by discipline; for re-roofing, photo review and certificate of completion.
Re-roofing permits use emailed geotagged photo documentation instead of in-person inspection for covered phases.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Metairie permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Metairie, LA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Metairie, LA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Metairie, LA? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Metairie, LA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Metairie, LA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Jefferson Parish Building Permits Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.