Dearborn, MI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

City-administered permits, plan review, inspections, and contractor registration within Dearborn city limits.

Department

Construction Code Services / Permit and Plan Review Office

Address

Dearborn Administrative Center, 16901 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126

Phone

311 or 313-943-2150

Email

DbnPermits@dearborn.gov

Website

https://dearborn.gov/residents/home-property/home-improvement-construction

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Download the correct permit application packet or use the BS&A-backed city permit workflow where offered.
2. Submit application, plans, contractor information, and payment to Permit and Plan Review, 16901 Michigan Ave., Suite 6.
3. City completes plan review; applicant responds to corrections if needed.
4. City contacts applicant to pick up or receive approved permit and stamped plans.
5. Applicant schedules required inspections through BS&A or the city's inspection scheduling system.
6. Final approvals close the permit; occupancy or re-occupancy work requires all permit items cleared first.

Typical processing time: Often about 10 business days for building permit review.

Source: Construction Code Services / Permit and Plan Review Office

General Requirements

Building permits cover demolition, additions, renovations, installations, repairs, and new construction; trade permits cover electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work.

Required Documents

• Completed application
• Plan sets
• Site plan or survey when applicable
• Signed contract
• Contractor registration
• HOA or historic approvals if relevant

Permit validity

Permits expire 6 months after issue if work does not start; once started, noticeable progress must continue and work must be completed within 18 months of issuance.

Building code

Dearborn enforces the current State adopted edition of the applicable Michigan construction codes.

Owner-builder

Homeowners may obtain most permits, but the city recommends licensed contractors and assigns liability to the permit holder.

Contractor requirements

Contractors must hold the applicable State of Michigan license and be registered with the City of Dearborn.

Fees

Minimum permit fee

$100

Plan check fee

$100 administrative fee plus $5 per $1,000 of construction cost for plan review, max $250 (for certain permit types).

Permit fee formula

Mixed; many building permits use administrative fee plus plan review and valuation-based permit fee.

Reinspection fee

$75 for failed access, late cancellation, or incomplete inspection appointments.

Payment note

Checks commonly payable to City of Dearborn; BS&A is used for many online transactions and inspection scheduling.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule (effective 2024-06).

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Some projects may only need a final inspection, such as certain fences.

Important: No single citywide public exemption list was located. Applicants should confirm permit need with Construction Code Services before starting minor work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• BS&A portal (online)
• City automated inspection scheduling (phone)

Inspection hours

Monday through Friday, generally 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for scheduled inspection appointments.

Typical inspection sequence: Rough or progress inspection, correction cycle if needed, final inspection, then permit closure or occupancy clearance.

Additional Resources

• Building code: Dearborn enforces the current State adopted edition of the applicable Michigan construction codes.
• Zoning information: View zoning info
• Detailed Plan Review Process
• Contact Dearborn
• License lookup guide: Michigan Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: Michigan Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
• Michigan hub: Michigan Contractor License & Permit Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

Dearborn Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Dearborn, MI?

Building permits cover demolition, additions, renovations, installations, repairs, and new construction; trade permits cover electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work.

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

The minimum permit fee is $100. Fees are calculated as: Mixed; many building permits use administrative fee plus plan review and valuation-based permit fee.. Plan check fee: $100 administrative fee plus $5 per $1,000 of construction cost for plan review, max $250 (for certain permit types)..

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

1. Download the correct permit application packet or use the BS&A-backed city permit workflow where offered. 2. Submit application, plans, contractor information, and payment to Permit and Plan Review, 16901 Michigan Ave., Suite 6. 3. City completes plan review; applicant responds to corrections if needed. 4. City contacts applicant to pick up or receive approved permit and stamped plans. 5. Applicant schedules required inspections through BS&A or the city's inspection scheduling system. 6. Final approvals close the permit; occupancy or re-occupancy work requires all permit items cleared first.

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

Typical processing time is Often about 10 business days for building permit review..

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

The following work is generally exempt: Some projects may only need a final inspection, such as certain fences.. Note: No single citywide public exemption list was located. Applicants should confirm permit need with Construction Code Services before starting minor work.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Dearborn, MI?

Inspections can be scheduled via: BS&A portal, City automated inspection scheduling.

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