Example wall framing plan, start to finish

Scaled diagram

Cut list

• Field studs ×312x4 × 91"
• Bottom plate ×42x4 × 12'
• Top plates (doubled) ×72x4 × 12'
• King studs ×62x4 × 91"
• Jack studs ×62x4 × cut to header height
• Headers ×32×10 × opening + 3"
• Cripples ×122x4 × short

Permit checkpoints

• Building permit required for new walls

  Adding, removing or altering walls is permitted work in essentially every jurisdiction, and it carries a framing inspection before insulation and board go on. Unpermitted structural changes surface at resale and can void insurance.

• Fire blocking and draft stopping

  Fire blocking is required where a stud cavity runs past 10ft vertically, and at soffits, dropped ceilings and chases.

• Pressure-treated plate on concrete

  Any bottom plate in contact with concrete or masonry must be pressure-treated (or separated by an approved barrier), and fastened with anchors rated for concrete.

• Follow the code nailing schedule

  Inspectors check fastening before anything else: 2 nails per stud into each plate end-nailed (or 3 toe-nailed), and the published pattern for sheathing edges and field. Print the table and keep it on site.

• Plan the rough-in before you sheath

  Electrical, plumbing and HVAC all need to be in the cavity and inspected before insulation. Drill and notch only within code limits — over-notching a stud is a red-tag.

• Set your state for localized rules

  Permit thresholds, frost-line depth, and fence-height caps vary a lot by state. Pick your state above to tailor this checklist.

Rules vary by city and county — always confirm with your local building department. Estimates only, not a permit determination.