Hillsdale, MI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Incorporated City of Hillsdale, including city zoning and use and occupancy administration. Building and trade permits are handled by the Hillsdale County Inspection Department per city materials.

Department

City of Hillsdale Code Enforcement / Planning and Zoning

Address

97 N Broad St., Hillsdale, MI 49242

Phone

(517) 437-6455 for code enforcement, (517) 437-6440 city hall main number

Email

code@cityofhillsdale.org

Website

https://www.cityofhillsdale.org/

Application Process

1. Confirm whether the work needs a city zoning compliance permit, a county building permit, or both.
2. Submit the city zoning permit or related planning application to city staff if the project is within city limits and affects zoning.
3. City review occurs first for many projects, especially before county building permit submission.
4. Apply to the Hillsdale County Inspection Department for building, trade, or mechanical permits as required.
5. Complete inspections during construction and any use and occupancy review if the project triggers it.

Typical processing time: The city states zoning permit review is generally 1 to 2 business days after a complete application is received.

Source: City of Hillsdale Code Enforcement / Planning and Zoning

General Requirements

Required Documents

• City forms commonly request applicant and contractor information, project description, site plan or drawing, and supporting details. Some forms require photographs or sketches depending on permit type.

Building code

City materials reference the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code for use and occupancy enforcement. Building and trade permits remain subject to Michigan state codes through the county inspection office.

Fees

Minimum permit fee

The city fee schedule shows several permit minimums; for example, fence permits are $50 and sign permits are $50. Use and occupancy permit application fee is listed at $100 on the application.

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

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• The city brochure specifically notes that shingle, metal roof, and rubber membrane replacement on an existing roof does not require city zoning approval, but county building permits may still apply.

Inspections

How to Schedule

Typical inspection sequence: City zoning first where required, then county building permit, then inspections and any use and occupancy review.

The city fee schedule charges $50 for special or repeat inspections.

Additional Resources

• Building code: City materials reference the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code for use and occupancy enforcement. Building and trade permits remain subject to Michigan state codes through the county inspection office.
• Zoning and code enforcement
• Use and occupancy brochure
• City fee schedule
• Fence permit form
• License lookup guide: Michigan Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Michigan Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Michigan hub: Michigan Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Hillsdale Building Permit FAQ

How much does a building permit cost in Hillsdale, MI?

The minimum permit fee is The city fee schedule shows several permit minimums; for example, fence permits are $50 and sign permits are $50. Use and occupancy permit application fee is listed at $100 on the application..

How do I apply for a building permit in Hillsdale, MI?

1. Confirm whether the work needs a city zoning compliance permit, a county building permit, or both. 2. Submit the city zoning permit or related planning application to city staff if the project is within city limits and affects zoning. 3. City review occurs first for many projects, especially before county building permit submission. 4. Apply to the Hillsdale County Inspection Department for building, trade, or mechanical permits as required. 5. Complete inspections during construction and any use and occupancy review if the project triggers it.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Hillsdale, MI?

Typical processing time is The city states zoning permit review is generally 1 to 2 business days after a complete application is received..

What work is exempt from building permits in Hillsdale, MI?

The following work is generally exempt: The city brochure specifically notes that shingle, metal roof, and rubber membrane replacement on an existing roof does not require city zoning approval, but county building permits may still apply..

Other cities in Hillsdale County