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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Cheyenne
A permit is required for new construction, additions, alterations, repairs, relocations, or demolitions involving buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems within city limits.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, not exceeding 200 square feet
- Exempt Fences not over 7 feet high
- Exempt Retaining walls not over 4 feet in height (unless supporting a surcharge)
- Exempt Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops, and similar finish work
- Exempt Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to one- or two-family dwellings that are less than 24 inches deep
- Exempt Swings and other playground equipment
Note: Exemption from building permit does not exempt work from zoning or other code requirements. Contact Building Safety at (307) 637-6265 to confirm current local exemptions.
- Completed application (via OpenGov)
- Site/plot plan
- Construction drawings
- Drainage plan for all new residential construction (prepared by Wyoming P.E. or P.L.S.)
- Wet-sealed plans (2 sets) for projects requiring design professional review
- Building code
- 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and 2024 International Residential Code (IRC), adopted with adoption effective per state mandate.
- Permit validity
- Every permit expires and becomes invalid one year after issuance. The Building Official may grant one 180-day extension upon written request by the permit holder before the permit expires.
- Owner-builder
- Contact Building Safety Division at (307) 637-6265 for owner-builder procedures.
- Contractor requirements
- Most contractors working within Cheyenne must hold a city-issued contractor license. License classes: Class A (any type/size, 7 years experience, $650), Class B (residential 2 stories or less, 5 years, $450), Class C (trade-specific, 3 years, $250), Class D (1 year experience, $250), Class R (single-family residential, 5 years, $450). All classes require a Qualified Supervisor. State electrical contractor license also required for electrical work.
Source: City of Cheyenne - Compliance Department, Building Safety Division ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Contact Building Safety at (307) 637-6265 for current turnaround times.
- 01 Create or log in to your OpenGov account at https://cheyennewy.portal.opengov.com/.
- 02 Select the permit type applicable to your project (building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, etc.).
- 03 Complete the online application form, including project description and valuation.
- 04 Upload all required documents: site plan/plot plan, construction drawings, drainage plan for new residential construction, stamped plans if applicable.
- 05 Pay the plan review fee at time of submission (65% of permit fee for projects requiring plan review).
- 06 Receive plan review. Respond to any plan review corrections through the portal.
- 07 Pay remaining permit fee when permit is approved.
- 08 Download and post permit on site before beginning work.
- 09 Schedule and pass all required inspections. Final inspection required before occupancy.
Typical processing time: Contact Building Safety at (307) 637-6265 for current turnaround times.
Source: City of Cheyenne - Compliance Department, Building Safety Division ↗
Fee schedule
Cheyenne building permit fees
Payment processed through OpenGov portal online; debit/credit cards accepted.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- OpenGov portal (online)
- (307) 637-6265 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Footing/foundation; framing; rough mechanical/plumbing/electrical; insulation; wallboard; final inspection.
Source: City of Cheyenne - Compliance Department, Building Safety Division ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Cheyenne permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Cheyenne, WY? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Cheyenne, WY? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Cheyenne, WY? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Cheyenne, WY? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Cheyenne, WY? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Cheyenne, WY? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Cheyenne - Compliance Department, Building Safety Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.