Building Permits
Read this first.
Getting a trade permit from the City of Detroit means we will work together to make sure your project meets the laws enacted to ensure a healthy and safe environment for everyone. You can expect that you will need to:
- Gather a number of documents before applying online, which may take some time.
- Apply for and manage your permit application using the online permit application portal.
What’s the Process Like?
This page is a short tutorial of what you’ll do to get a building permit.
Looking for the online application portal? See Step 3, Apply online.
Determine if you need a permit
Building Permits are needed for things like:
- Residential construction
- Commercial construction
- Sign
If you already know you need one, skip to Step 2.
For a quick overview of when you don’t need a permit, download our guide.
The City of Detroit has an online tool designed to help you know if there are any special requirements that you might need for your project.
Taking a few minutes to review this now may prevent any unexpected surprises and make sure you know what to expect as you move through the steps to get your permit.
Need a water or sewer permit? Visit the Water & Sewerage Department.
Need a right-of-way permit? Visit the Department of Public Works.
Identify the type of permit you need
Different types of permits have different requirements. In this step, you will:
- Review the requirements for the type of permit you need.
- Gather documents or other information you’ll submit later in the process.
If you already know the permit you need and are ready to apply for it, skip to Step 3.
Download the latest list of fees for permits.
Commercial Building Permit
- Current State of Michigan Building Code
- Chapter 50 Zoning Code
- Municode
- No license required
- All architectural plans are required to be sealed by an State registered architect or engineer
- Create account in Accela Portal
- Contractors connect license account to permit account
- Apply for a permit on-line through Accela Portal only
- Submit scope of work and sealed architectural plans in ProjectDox portal
After submitting your application, you can expect to get your permit in about 5 days.
Schedule Permit Inspection in Accela Portal or in Construction Division Office
- Building Permit
- Certificate of Acceptance
- If Change of Use, New Construction or addition obtain Certificate of Occupancy
20 Days
Residential Building Permit
- Current State of Michigan Building Code
- Chapter 50 Zoning Code
- Municode
Contractors must have a Builder's License and City registration, homeowners applying for a permit do not require contractor's license
- Create account in Accela Portal
- Contractors connect license account to permit account
- Apply for a permit on-line through Accela Portal
- Submit scope of work and sealed architectural plans in ProjectDox portal or Complete and submit permit application in DRC office
After submitting your application, you can expect to get your permit in about 5 days.
Schedule Permit Inspection in Accela Portal or in Construction Division Office
- Residential Permit
- Certificate of Acceptance
- If Change of Use, New Construction or addition obtain Certificate of Occupancy
5 Days
Sign Permit
- Current State of Michigan Building Code
- Chapter 4 Sign Ordinance
- Sign Ordinance
City of Detroit licensed Sign Erector or Sign Specialist
- Create account in Accela Portal
- Contractors connect license account to permit account
- Apply for a permit on-line through Accela Portal
- Submit scope of work and sealed architectural plans in ProjectDox portal or Complete and submit permit application in DRC office
After submitting your application, you can expect to get your permit in about 20 days.
Schedule Permit Inspection in Accela Portal or in Construction Division Office
- Sign Permit
- Certificate of Acceptance
20 Days
Apply for the permit online
You'll use an external site (Accela/eLAPS) to apply and upload documents.
- You will have to create an account if you don’t already have one.
- A fee will be required in order to submit your application.
- After you apply, a customer service representative will review your application and contact you if they need more information. The tool in Step 1 can help you prepare for any requirements you may be asked for here.
- Once you complete the application, move to "upload documents" section to upload plans, specifications and other documents as required for review.
To troubleshoot Accela, reference our help page.
For assistance or additional help in applying, contact us at (313) 224-3179.
Document review and revision
Once the documents are received, assigned reviewers will determine if the permit can be approved.
If additional information is needed you will receive an email notification to access your account and make the corrections.
Paying close attention to your email, as well as logging into Accela to check for revision requests, will make sure your project keeps moving.
Get permits
Your final permit will be available on Accela/eLAPS.
Start your project
As you begin construction, be sure to post all permits on the exterior of your property.
Complete inspection
The City is responsible for inspecting construction projects to make sure they meet approved plans and comply with building codes and standards. This includes:
- private demolition work
- installation of signs and awnings
- processing insurance escrow for fire repair
See the city’s Construction Inspection Guidance for information on how to schedule your inspection.
Get your certificate of acceptance or occupancy
A Certificate of Acceptance (C of A) or a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is required after you’re completed your project. In some cases, you’ll need both. These documents are important because they mean the work has been completed in compliance with current codes.
For more details on your Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Acceptance, or to apply for one, review the city’s Construction Inspection Guidance.