Reading, MI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

Incorporated City of Reading. The city has a use and occupancy permit program under its IPMC enforcement.

Department

City of Reading code official / IPMC code official

Address

City Hall, 113 S. Main St., Reading, MI 49274

Website

https://reading.mi.us/

Application Process

1. Determine whether the project triggers use and occupancy permitting or other city review.
2. Apply for the city use and occupancy permit.
3. City code official or designee inspects the premises.
4. If repairs are needed, the city may issue a temporary use and occupancy permit for up to six months.
5. Final permit remains valid until a change of occupants more than three years after issuance.

Source: City of Reading code official / IPMC code official

General Requirements

The city ordinance requires a use and occupancy permit before using or occupying a structure or premises, except for an owner-occupied principal residence.

Building code

The city notice references the International Property Maintenance Code as adopted by the City of Reading. Building construction code details were not clearly published in the reviewed materials.

Owner-builder

The city ordinance specifically exempts structures or premises used and occupied by the owner as their principal residence from the use and occupancy permit requirement.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Reading code official / IPMC code official to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

Typical inspection sequence: Application, inspection by city code official, temporary permit if needed, then final issuance.

Additional Resources

• Building code: The city notice references the International Property Maintenance Code as adopted by the City of Reading. Building construction code details were not clearly published in the reviewed materials.
• Ordinance notice
• Ordinances page
• Public assistance page with city hall address
• License lookup guide: Michigan Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Michigan Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Michigan hub: Michigan Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Reading, MI?

The city ordinance requires a use and occupancy permit before using or occupying a structure or premises, except for an owner-occupied principal residence.

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

1. Determine whether the project triggers use and occupancy permitting or other city review. 2. Apply for the city use and occupancy permit. 3. City code official or designee inspects the premises. 4. If repairs are needed, the city may issue a temporary use and occupancy permit for up to six months. 5. Final permit remains valid until a change of occupants more than three years after issuance.

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