Detroit permitting can feel like a lot, especially when you’re dealing with multiple trades, zoning checks, and inspection timing all at once. Whether you’re planning a ground-up commercial build, renovating a historic home, or doing HVAC work in Detroit, Michigan, it helps to know what the city expects before you start.
This guide breaks down the full Detroit building permit process in a clear, step-by-step way, including the key permit requirements, common fees, plan review details, inspections, and what you need for close-out.
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What requires a building permit in Detroit?
According to the Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department (BSEED), a building permit is required for any project involving:
- Any project to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure
- Construction/alterations that involve cutting away any wall, partition, or portion of a structure
- Roof replacement / removing a substantial amount of shingles (as opposed to a tiny patch)
- Driveway approach + sidewalk work associated with the driveway within public rights-of-way (this typically triggers right-of-way/sidewalk permitting rather than “just” a building permit)
- Any exterior work in a local historic district (permit required for all exterior work)
What doesn’t require a building permit?
You may not need a permit for:
- Fences 7 feet high or less, as long as they’re not in a Special Review District
- Accessory detached structures (like garages/sheds) that are no more than 1 story and 200 sq ft
- Retaining walls no more than 4 feet tall
- Replacing only a few shingles (small roof work “that could be done in a matter of minutes”)
- Decks not exceeding 200 sq ft
If you’re unsure, BSEED lists a direct contact for help: (313) 224-2372, or email DRC@detroitmi.gov.
Detroit building permit cost
Detroit building permit fees are based on project valuation and permit type. Here's a general breakdown:
Residential fees
Commercial fees
For more information on other building fees, refer to the city’s building permit fees page.
How long do building permits last in Detroit?
In Detroit, most building permits are valid for 6 months (180 days) from the issuance date.
- You can extend once for an additional 6 months
- Permits expire if no work begins or activity lapses for over 180 days
- Expired permits require reapplication
Detroit trade permits
Plumbing permits
Covers new or modified water, sewer, or gas systems.
Electrical permits
Needed for new circuits, panel work, or system upgrades.
Mechanical (HVAC) permits
Applies to HVAC units, ductwork, and venting.
Special permits
Keep projects moving with less friction.
PermitFlow automates research, submissions, and approvals so you can stay focused on construction, not chasing permits. Learn more.
How to get a building permit in Detroit, MI
Step 1: Prepare your materials
First, get all your documentation and project details ready so your application goes smoothly.
- Completed Detroit building permit application
- Site plan and construction drawings (PDF): Include enough detail for zoning and code reviewers (property lines, dimensions, elevations)
- Project valuation
- Contractor license details (if applicable)
- Trade permit applications (electrical, plumbing, mechanical, etc.):
- Blight clearance: Detroit now requires a DAH-issued blight clearance before a building permit can be accepted (check during application).
Step 2: Apply online through Accela (Detroit online permit portal)
Go to Detroit’s Accela/ELAPS permit portal and create an account if you don’t have one.
- Create a new building permit application record and select the correct project type
- Upload all required plans and documents (site plan, construction drawings, trade scopes, valuation) in PDF format
- Connect your contractor license to your account if you are filing as a contractor; homeowners may file their own for single-family work
Note: Detroit’s ePLANS electronic plan review is available for many projects, allowing you to submit plans and check review status online, but paper plans may still be accepted in some cases.
Step 3: Plan review and corrections
Once your application is submitted, BSEED reviewers check your project for:
- Zoning compliance (setbacks, use, overlays)
- Building code compliance (Michigan Building Code & Detroit ordinances)
- Fire and safety issues
- Trade needs (electrical, plumbing, mechanical, etc.)
If the reviewer finds discrepancies or missing items, you will receive corrections or a review comment set in the portal that you must satisfy before approval.
Step 4: Pay permit fees
After your application and plans pass review, you’ll see a fee invoice in the portal.
- Pay online through the Accela/ELAPS system to activate the permit
- Some fees may require separate review or deposits (for example, trade permits are separate records and fees)
Tip: Some projects require additional reviews (e.g., zoning verification letters or historic district approvals) that carry separate fees, so check early.
Step 5: Post your permit and begin construction
Once your permit is issued and paid, you can begin work.
A copy of your approved building permit must be posted conspicuously on site before work begins. Keep your approved plans on site for inspectors to reference
Finally, schedule inspections for each trade and building stages as required.
Permit inspections in Detroit, MI
Most permitted work in Detroit requires inspections to make sure construction matches the approved plans and complies with applicable building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing codes.
Common inspection milestones
You’ll typically schedule inspections during construction. Common inspection requirements include:
- Footings and foundation
- Framing and structural
- Electrical and plumbing rough-in
- Mechanical/HVAC inspections
- Insulation
- Final inspection
How to schedule an inspection
You can schedule and manage most inspections through the Detroit Accela/ELAPS Permit Portal, the same system used for permits, plan uploads, and tracking status.
Time requirements:
- Inspections must be scheduled online no later than 10:00 AM the business day before your requested date
- If you miss the cutoff, you must call BSEED directly to reschedule or cancel
For inspections that aren’t available online or to reschedule after the cutoff, call the BSEED Construction Inspection Division at (313) 224-3202.
What to expect on inspection day
- Inspectors typically call the morning of your inspection and may give a two-hour arrival window. You should be available at the job site that day to ensure access and address any questions.
- If your work isn’t ready (e.g., framing isn’t complete or walls are already closed), inspections will be marked not ready, and you’ll need to reschedule.
- If corrections are required, you must fix them and schedule a reinspection. Depending on the permit type, reinspection fees may apply.
Tips to avoid delays
- Post your permit and approved plans at the job site. Inspectors must be able to verify the scope easily
- Don’t cover work before inspection. Walls, ceilings, or systems must remain accessible until the inspector approves them.
- Provide accurate contact info when scheduling so inspectors can reach you with arrival details.
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PermitFlow automates inspection scheduling, coordination, and closeout so you can focus on your next project. Learn more.
Detroit permitting resources
- Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department (BSEED)
- Address: 2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
- Email: DRC@detroitmi.gov
- Phone: (313) 224-2733
- Fax: (313) 224-1467
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM ET
- Building Permits Portal
- Permit Requirements & Fees
- Applications:
- DAH-issued blight clearance
- Accela/ELAPS permit portal
- Detroit’s ePLANS electronic plan review
- Zoning verification
Simplify Detroit permitting with PermitFlow
Detroit's permitting process inevitably slows you down. Michigan building codes apply citywide, but Detroit adds local requirements that shift based on project type and location. Multiple department reviews drag out timelines. As a result, your team spends days on paperwork and coordination instead of productive work on the job site.
PermitFlow simplifies the entire process.
Our AI-powered permit management platform automates everything from application through final approval. We craft and submit error-free applications, route them to the appropriate departments, and track everything through closeout. You get automatic status updates without endless follow-up calls.
Why contractors and trades pros partner with PermitFlow:
- Local expertise: We understand Detroit’s permit requirements and Michigan building codes, which means your applications advance through review without obstacles.
- Centralized tracking: Monitor all your permits from one dashboard with real-time progress updates.
- Fast approvals: Complete, accurate applications pass review quickly, cutting wait times and preventing delays.
- Nationwide coverage: Use the same reliable system for projects in Detroit and across the country.
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