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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Detroit
New buildings, additions, alterations, repairs, change of use, demolition, signs, and work requiring building review or trade permits.
Note: No Detroit-wide public exemption list was located. Minor work should be screened directly with BSEED before starting.
- Permit application
- Scope of work
- Sealed architectural or engineering plans when required
- Contractor license linkage or city registration where applicable
- Zoning or related approvals when triggered
- Building code
- Current State of Michigan Building Code and related Michigan construction codes, plus Detroit zoning and local ordinances.
- Permit validity
- Verify expiration rules on issued permit and any hearing approval documents.
- Owner-builder
- Homeowners applying for residential permits do not need a contractor license.
- Contractor requirements
- Residential contractors must hold builder license and city registration; commercial work must follow sealed plans requirements where applicable.
Source: Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) ↗
Application process
Typical processing: About 5 days for many residential permits; some permit tracks estimate 20 days after application submission.
- 01 Create an Accela account and, if applicable, connect contractor license credentials.
- 02 Submit permit application in Accela; upload scope and plans in ProjectDox when plan review is required, or file at the DRC office for eligible work.
- 03 Respond to revision comments and complete zoning or related clearances.
- 04 Pay assessed permit and plan review fees.
- 05 Receive permit in Accela/eLAPS, post on site, schedule inspections in Accela or through Construction Division.
- 06 Pass finals and obtain Certificate of Acceptance or Certificate of Occupancy as applicable.
Typical processing time: About 5 days for many residential permits; some permit tracks estimate 20 days after application submission.
Source: Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) ↗
Fee schedule
Effective July 18, 2025
Fees are paid through the permit workflow in Accela/eLAPS or at city cashiering points depending on application path.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective July 18, 2025) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Accela/eLAPS portal (online)
- Construction Division Office (phone)
- Plumbing: 313-224-3202 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Mechanical inspector office hours posted by division; plumbing inspections generally within 48 hours.
Typical sequence: Rough or progress inspections by trade and building discipline, then final inspection, then Certificate of Acceptance or Occupancy.
Source: Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Detroit permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Detroit, MI? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Detroit, MI? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Detroit, MI? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Detroit, MI? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Detroit, MI? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.