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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Raleigh
New residential construction, new commercial or industrial construction, structural additions or alterations, change of building use or occupancy, and major remodeling involving structural work.
Note: Confirm all exemptions and edge cases with Town Hall before proceeding.
- Completed building permit application
- Two (2) sets of plans including: site/plot plan showing property boundaries and structure location, foundation and footing layout with details, framing details, electrical layout, and front, side, and rear elevations
- Proof of ownership (deed or warranty deed if homeowner is builder)
- MSDH Form 335 septic evaluation (if not on public sewer)
- Building code
- As a Mississippi municipality, Raleigh must adopt one of the last three editions of the IBC or IRC as minimum code. The applicable statewide baseline is the 2021 IBC / 2021 IRC with Mississippi amendments (effective July 1, 2024). Raleigh's specific adopted ordinance should be confirmed with Town Hall.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid MSBOC license for projects $50,000 or more (residential new construction) or $10,000+ (residential remodeling/roofing). Contact MSBOC at 800-880-6161 or https://www.msboc.us/
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact Raleigh Town Hall at 601-782-4672 (M–F, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) to confirm permit requirements.
- 02 Obtain building permit application form from Town Hall.
- 03 Prepare two (2) sets of construction plans.
- 04 For properties without public sewer, obtain MSDH Soil and Site Recommendation Form (335) from Smith County Health Department (601-782-4472).
- 05 Submit completed application, plans, and documentation to Town Hall.
- 06 Pay applicable permit fees.
- 07 Obtain building permit.
- 08 Schedule required inspections as construction progresses.
- 09 Obtain final inspection approval before occupancy.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Town Hall (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Standard residential inspection stages: 1) Foundation/footing inspection (before concrete pour), 2) Framing inspection (before walls are closed), 3) Electrical rough-in inspection, 4) Plumbing rough-in inspection (if applicable), 5) HVAC inspection (if applicable), 6) Final inspection before occupancy. Septic inspection by MSDH or Smith County Health Department required separately for properties not on public sewer.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Raleigh permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Raleigh, MS? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Raleigh, MS? ▸
03 How do I schedule a building inspection in Raleigh, MS? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Raleigh Municipal Government before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.