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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Ely
A building permit is required when any owner or authorized agent intends to: construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure; erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system regulated by the International Building Code and/or International Residential Code.
Note: Specific exempt work categories not clearly documented online. Contact the City of Ely Building Department directly at (775) 289-2430 or buildingofficial@cityofelynv.gov to confirm if specific work requires a permit.
- Complete Building Permit Application with project address and contact information
- Site plan showing building location, grading needed, and property location (2 copies)
- Building plans showing intended project completely and application of codes (2 copies: one for City retention, one to be at project site at all times)
- Proof of ownership or letter of authorization from owners
- Letter of intent to serve from utility companies
- Letter of Clearance from utility companies (City of Ely Water/Sewer Department, Mt. Wheeler Power, etc.)
- Copies of approved Zone changes, Variances, or Special/Conditional use permits from White Pine Regional Planning Commission
- Copy of approval from Nevada State Health Division, Bureau of Health Protective Services for needed septic system and/or domestic water system
- Completed Owner Builder Affidavit of Exemption from Nevada State Contractor's Board (if applicable)
- All Contractors' Names and License Numbers must be listed
- Letter of approval for access (All Weather Road) for emergency vehicle from Ely Fire Chief or White Pine County Fire Chief
- Building code
- City of Ely has adopted: 2018 International Building Code (IBC) - Ordinance 746, adopted August 18, 2022; 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) including Appendix Chapters G (Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs), H (Patio Covers), and Q (Tiny Houses)
- Permit validity
- Permit becomes null and void if work is not commenced within 180 days, or if construction is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after work has commenced
- Owner-builder
- Property owners may be eligible for Owner Builder Exemption if building their own residence. Must complete Owner Builder Affidavit of Exemption from Nevada State Contractor's Board. Contact NSCB for requirements.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must be licensed by the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB). All contractors' names and license numbers must be listed on permit application. Unlicensed contracting is prohibited in Nevada.
Application process
Typical processing: Contact City of Ely Building Department at (775) 289-2430 for current processing times; varies based on plan complexity and staff availability
- 01 Complete the Building Permit Application form
- 02 Gather all required documentation (see General Requirements below)
- 03 Submit application and documentation to City of Ely Building Department in person at 501 Mill Street, Ely, NV 89301, or contact for mail submission instructions
- 04 Department will advise if any additional documentation is needed
- 05 All plans must be submitted and approved prior to permit issuance
- 06 Pay required permit fees based on project valuation
- 07 Permit is issued upon approval and payment
- 08 Call (775) 289-6500 to schedule required inspections
- 09 Note: Work done prior to issuance of permit will be subject to double permit fees
Typical processing time: Contact City of Ely Building Department at (775) 289-2430 for current processing times; varies based on plan complexity and staff availability
Fee schedule
Ely building permit fees
Contact City of Ely at (775) 289-2430 for specific fee information, fee schedule, and accepted payment methods
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (775) 289-6500 or (775) 289-2430 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Schedule inspections 24 hours in advance (not including weekends and holidays)
- Inspection hours
- Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Required inspections: Footings, Foundation, Under Slab Utilities, Rough Framing, Rough Electrical, Rough Plumbing, Rough Mechanical, Insulation, Drywall Nailing, Final. Rough Framing, Rough Plumbing, Rough Electrical, and Rough Mechanical can be scheduled together.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Ely permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Ely, NV? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Ely, NV? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Ely, NV? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Ely, NV? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Ely, NV? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Ely Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.