What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Leake County, MS?

The following work is generally exempt: Minor cosmetic repairs (painting, flooring, cabinet work); Routine maintenance not involving structural or code-triggering work. Note: Exemptions from building permit do not mean exemption from zoning and planning requirements. Confirm with the Chancery Clerk before proceeding.

How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Leake County, MS?

Inspections can be scheduled via: (601) 267-8002.

County Building Permits

Leake County, MS - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in unincorporated Leake County, Mississippi. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Mississippi Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All unincorporated areas of Leake County outside the incorporated cities of Carthage, Walnut Grove, and Lena.

Department: Chancery Clerk's Office
Address: 101 Court Square, Carthage, MS 39051
Phone: (601) 267-8002
Website: https://leakecountyms.org/

Application Process

Visit or contact the Chancery Clerk's office at 101 Court Square, Carthage, MS 39051
Obtain and complete the building permit application form (available upon request)
Provide site plans and relevant construction documentation
Submit application with required fees
Office reviews application for compliance with zoning and code
Permit is issued upon approval
Work may commence; inspections are scheduled as needed

General Requirements

Building permits are required for new construction, substantial renovations, repairs to structural systems, septic system installation, electrical and plumbing upgrades, and demolition.

Required Documents

Completed building permit application form
Site plan
Construction documentation

Building code: 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) and 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments
Contractor requirements: Contractors must meet Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) licensing requirements: commercial projects exceeding $50,000 require a licensed commercial general contractor; residential projects exceeding $50,000 or roof/remodeling over $10,000 require a licensed residential contractor.

Fees

Payment note: Contact the Chancery Clerk's office at (601) 267-8002 for current fee schedule. Fees typically include application/permit fee (based on project value or type), inspection fees (per inspection stage), and possible zoning or variance review fees.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the Chancery Clerk's Office to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

(601) 267-8002 (phone)

Inspection hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Typical inspection sequence: Inspection requirements vary by project type but typically include: foundation inspection (before concrete pour), framing inspection (after framing complete, before drywall), electrical inspection (rough-in stage), plumbing inspection (rough-in stage), and final inspection (project completion).

Additional Resources

Building code: 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) and 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with local amendments
Verify contractor license: Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC)
Zoning information: View zoning info
Leake County Government
MSDH On-Site Wastewater Program
MDEQ Construction Stormwater Permits
FEMA Flood Map Service Center
License lookup guide: Mississippi Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Mississippi Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Mississippi hub: Mississippi Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Chancery Clerk's Office before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Leake County Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Leake County, MS?: Building permits are required for new construction, substantial renovations, repairs to structural systems, septic system installation, electrical and plumbing upgrades, and demolition.
How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Leake County, MS?: 1. Visit or contact the Chancery Clerk's office at 101 Court Square, Carthage, MS 39051 2. Obtain and complete the building permit application form (available upon request) 3. Provide site plans and relevant construction documentation 4. Submit application with required fees 5. Office reviews application for compliance with zoning and code 6. Permit is issued upon approval 7. Work may commence; inspections are scheduled as needed
What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Leake County, MS?: The following work is generally exempt: Minor cosmetic repairs (painting, flooring, cabinet work); Routine maintenance not involving structural or code-triggering work. Note: Exemptions from building permit do not mean exemption from zoning and planning requirements. Confirm with the Chancery Clerk before proceeding.
How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Leake County, MS?: Inspections can be scheduled via: (601) 267-8002.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Unincorporated Leake County can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

Learn how Jaspector works

Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

← Back to Leake County permit guides