Alcona County, MI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Countywide enforcing agency for the unincorporated area and the building permit authority used across Alcona County unless a separate agency is named.

Department

Alcona County Building Department

Address

216 W Main Street, Harrisville, MI 48740

Phone

(989) 724-9440

Website

https://alconacountymi.com/building-department/

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Start by completing the online building permit form or a paper-equivalent application
2. Provide jobsite location, township, parcel number if needed, project description, dimensions, square footage, owner and contractor information, and permit numbers for related zoning, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical permits
3. Attach plans or construction documents when required
4. Solar projects require both building and electrical permits plus detailed drawings and manufacturer specifications
5. Permit is reviewed by the building department; work must not begin until the permit is issued
6. Inspections are scheduled through the building department once work is ready

Source: Alcona County Building Department

General Requirements

Before construction of a building or structure; also when use or occupancy changes; ordinary repairs only are exempt under state law

Required Documents

• Construction documents
• For many jobs, plans signed and sealed by an architect or professional engineer unless a code exception applies
• Contractor license information
• Related permit numbers

Permit validity

Permits remain valid while work is progressing and inspections are requested and conducted; permit becomes invalid if work does not start within 6 months or is suspended/abandoned for 6 months; no inspections within 6 months can cancel the permit

Building code

Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code

Owner-builder

County form includes a homeowner affidavit and warns about MCL 125.1523a; owner who signs and hires others can be exposed to liability if the worker is not licensed and insured

Contractor requirements

The form states Alcona County requires a copy of a current contractor license for residential permit applications

Fees

Plan check fee

Solar plan review minimum shown on the form is $300 residential and $500 commercial

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Ordinary repairs under Michigan law
• Repairs that do not involve structural members, egress, or regulated plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems
• Any state-law ordinary repair exception not affecting public health or safety

Inspections

How to Schedule

• Call the Building Department (phone)

Scheduling deadline

24 to 48 hours notice is requested on the form

Inspection hours

Inspections may occur during 8 am to 6 pm or when construction is in progress, by consent under MCL 125.1512

Typical inspection sequence: Footing, foundation, rough, insulation, final, and special inspections as applicable

No concealed work until inspected and approved

Additional Resources

• Building code: Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• County forms
• License lookup guide: Michigan Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Michigan Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Michigan hub: Michigan Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Alcona County Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Alcona County, MI?

Before construction of a building or structure; also when use or occupancy changes; ordinary repairs only are exempt under state law

How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Alcona County, MI?

1. Start by completing the online building permit form or a paper-equivalent application 2. Provide jobsite location, township, parcel number if needed, project description, dimensions, square footage, owner and contractor information, and permit numbers for related zoning, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical permits 3. Attach plans or construction documents when required 4. Solar projects require both building and electrical permits plus detailed drawings and manufacturer specifications 5. Permit is reviewed by the building department; work must not begin until the permit is issued 6. Inspections are scheduled through the building department once work is ready

What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Alcona County, MI?

The following work is generally exempt: Ordinary repairs under Michigan law; Repairs that do not involve structural members, egress, or regulated plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems; Any state-law ordinary repair exception not affecting public health or safety.

How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Alcona County, MI?

Inspections can be scheduled via: Call the Building Department. 24 to 48 hours notice is requested on the form.