Bay County, MI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Michigan's Rev. 3/9/2026 Statewide Jurisdiction List shows 'BAY NO COUNTY PROGRAM.' Unincorporated parcels in Bay County are handled by the local township program shown on the statewide list; where the state is the enforcing agency for a discipline, use LARA/BCC.

Department

No countywide Bay County construction code permitting program. Permit authority is the applicable township enforcing agency, or the State of Michigan where state jurisdiction applies.

Address

No countywide Bay County building permit counter identified. State address: Bureau of Construction Codes, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

Phone

State of Michigan Bureau of Construction Codes Building Trades Section: 517-241-9313

Email

bccpermits@michigan.gov

Website

https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bcc/sections/permit-section/permits/building-permit-information

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Identify the parcel's actual township and confirm whether the relevant discipline is enforced locally or by the State of Michigan using the statewide jurisdiction list.
2. If the township is the enforcing agency, use that township's forms, fees, and submission method. If the state is the enforcing agency for the discipline, use the LARA/BCC permit information and Accela portal or mail-in forms.
3. Assemble permit application, plans, and any required zoning, floodplain, wetland, driveway, septic, shoreline, EGLE, or MDOT approvals depending on site conditions.
4. Submit to the appropriate enforcing agency.
5. Pay fees.
6. Schedule required inspections and complete work through final approval/certificate of occupancy as applicable.

Source: No countywide Bay County construction code permitting program. Permit authority is the applicable township enforcing agency, or the State of Michigan where state jurisdiction applies.

General Requirements

Michigan requires building permits before construction of a building or structure and for changes in use or occupancy. Ordinary repairs are exempt under state guidance.

Required Documents

• Written application to the appropriate enforcing agency
• Construction documents are generally required, though they may be waived when compliance can be determined from the application
• Sealed and signed plans are required where Michigan law requires them

Building code

Michigan State Construction Code, including Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code, with local enforcement where adopted/administered.

Owner-builder

State and local forms typically allow owner-builder affidavits for owner-occupied homes. Specific language depends on enforcing agency.

Contractor requirements

Michigan requires residential builders to be licensed for residential structure work, subject to statutory exceptions. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits likewise require properly licensed trade contractors unless an owner-builder exception applies.

Fees

Payment note

State permits can be obtained online through Accela or by mail. Township payment methods vary.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule (effective 2024).

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Ordinary repairs under state guidance, so long as they do not involve structural removal, required egress changes, or work affecting public health or general safety

Important: For unincorporated Bay County, additional exemptions may apply through the township or state enforcing agency. Confirm exemptions with the appropriate authority before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• Contact the appropriate township or LARA/BCC based on the enforcing agency (phone)

Additional Resources

• Building code: Michigan State Construction Code, including Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code, with local enforcement where adopted/administered.
• State Jurisdiction List
• Building Permit Information
• Bay County City and Township Officials
• License lookup guide: Michigan Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Michigan Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Michigan hub: Michigan Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Bay County Building Permit FAQ

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

Michigan requires building permits before construction of a building or structure and for changes in use or occupancy. Ordinary repairs are exempt under state guidance.

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

1. Identify the parcel's actual township and confirm whether the relevant discipline is enforced locally or by the State of Michigan using the statewide jurisdiction list. 2. If the township is the enforcing agency, use that township's forms, fees, and submission method. If the state is the enforcing agency for the discipline, use the LARA/BCC permit information and Accela portal or mail-in forms. 3. Assemble permit application, plans, and any required zoning, floodplain, wetland, driveway, septic, shoreline, EGLE, or MDOT approvals depending on site conditions. 4. Submit to the appropriate enforcing agency. 5. Pay fees. 6. Schedule required inspections and complete work through final approval/certificate of occupancy as applicable.

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

The following work is generally exempt: Ordinary repairs under state guidance, so long as they do not involve structural removal, required egress changes, or work affecting public health or general safety. Note: For unincorporated Bay County, additional exemptions may apply through the township or state enforcing agency. Confirm exemptions with the appropriate authority before starting work.

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

Inspections can be scheduled via: Contact the appropriate township or LARA/BCC based on the enforcing agency.