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1. Do I need a permit to reroof my home or business?

Yes, a building permit is required for a new roof, or repairs:

• Residential: A simple tear off/re-roof application cost $75.00 and requires one final inspection. A licensed contractor or the homeowner (when it is their primary residence) may pull the permit.
  • If your project includes any structural changes, fees are calculated by the Building Official. Please include scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details.
• Commercial: A building permit application will be reviewed and invoiced by the Building Official. Please include scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details. A licensed contractor must pull the permit.

2. Do I need a permit for my accessory building?

The building codes do require a permit for any buildings (ie. shed, gazebo, etc.) that exceed 200 square feet for residential buildings and 120 square feet for commercial buildings. This includes sheds and buildings that are pre built or manufactured.

3. Do I need a permit to replace windows, doors, or siding?

Yes. We require a permit to replace windows, doors, and siding. Please note that bedroom windows must either meet the minimum required egress size or be replaced with a window that does not reduce the current window opening size. 

• Residential: A simple, non-structural change for re-siding, re-roofing (shingle replacement only), or same-size window replacement (no change in window opening size), the fee is $65.00 plus a non-refundable $15.00 permit application fee. This permit process also requires one final inspection. A licensed contractor or the homeowner (when it is their primary residence) may pull the permit.
  • If your project includes any structural changes, the fees are calculated by the Building Official. Please include a scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details within the permit application.
• Commercial: A building permit application will be reviewed and invoiced by the Building Official. Please include a scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details. A licensed contractor must pull the permit.

4. Do I need a permit for a deck that is not attached to my home?

Yes. Code requires a permit for any deck that serves an exit door regardless of whether it is attached to the building or free standing. You do not need a permit if you are replacing deck boards. You do need a permit if you are replacing anything structural (ie. railings, joists, etc.) If your deck/project is not attached to the home, is less than 200 sq. ft. and more than 10 ft. away from the home, a permit is not required.

5. Do I need a permit for interior remodeling?

In most cases yes. There are a number of things that require inspection even during minor remodeling project. It is best to call our office and describe the project to determine if a permit is required, 517-668-0278.

6. How do I get my power turned back on after it has been off for a period of time?

The utility companies require an inspection before power can be restored and an electrical permit is required for that inspection.

7. Do I need to be home during an inspection?

In any case where the house is occupied or personal items are present, we will require someone over the age of 18 to be there. Only the applicant can schedule inspections by calling 517-277-0700.

8. What are building permit fees based on?

New structures are based on the square footage of the building type following the International Code Council's valuation table. Remodeling and alterations are based on the contract amount or value of the of the project. 

9. Can I pull homeowner or business owner permits?

Residential

• Homeowners (primary residence) may pull building and trades permits. Licensed contractors may also pull these permits.
• Homeowners (non-primary residence, landlords, second home, etc.) are not permitted to pull permits. A licensed contractor is required to pull these permits.

Commercial

• Business owners are not permitted to pull building or trades permits, the applicant must be a licensed contractor.

10. Do I need a permit for a pool?

Yes. A homeowner or licensed contractor may pull a permit for a pool. Both in-ground and above ground pools require a building permit.

11. How long will it take to get my permit?

If everything is completed accurately and all supplemental documentation has been submitted, issuing permits typically follow the guidelines below. Please include your email address on applications as invoices, permits, and plans are delivered electronically.

• Trades Permits: 24-36 Hours (permits and invoices are delivered electronically, please include your email address)
• Building Permits: 7-10 Business Days

12. Can you help me with hiring a good contractor?

Although we do not give out Contractor recommendations, we do believe it is very important to check:

• Does the contractor have a valid license?
• Can they provide recent references?
• Does this Contractor have expired permits on file with the City of Grand Ledge?
• Does the Contractor provide a warranty?
• Have all inspections been performed on the project?

13. What types of projects require a permit (ie. Building and all Trades)?

This list is not all-inclusive. If you have further questions, please call us at 517-668-0278.

• A permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish any building, or part thereof.
• All new construction work requires a building permit.
• All existing construction work, if altering the original building, requires a building permit.
• The following repairs/replacement projects ALWAYS require a permit:
  • Water heater change out
  • A/C or Furnace replacement
  • Generator Installation
  • Re-Roofing home
  • Tub/shower replacement
  • Electrical service change out/repair
  • Window/door replacement if opening sizes are altered
  • All repairs due to a fire