Do I need a permit for my project? How to find the real answer
State law sets the floor. Your city or county sets the rule you will actually be held to.
5 min read · Estimates only — not a quote
Permits are decided locally
Most residential permit questions are answered by a city or county ordinance, not state statute. Two addresses ten minutes apart can have different fence height limits, different deck height thresholds and different setback rules.
That is why our permit lookup starts at your ZIP and then lets you override to the exact city or county, and always links the official source page so you can verify the rule yourself.
The thresholds that trigger a permit most often
These are the common trigger points to look for in your local code.
- Fences: height above a stated limit (often differs between front and rear yards) and any masonry construction.
- Decks: height above grade, attachment to the dwelling, or area over a stated square footage.
- Sheds and accessory structures: floor area, height, and distance to property lines.
- Concrete slabs and driveways: drainage, right-of-way work and impervious-surface limits.
- Anything structural, electrical or plumbing: assume a permit and an inspection.
Also check the rules that are not code
HOA covenants, easements and utility locates are separate from permitting and are enforced independently. Call the national locate service before digging post holes or footings, every time.
Our permit results are software-generated summaries with links to official sources; they are informational, not legal advice, and codes change.
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Check my permit rulesFrequently asked questions
Sometimes, but retroactive permitting often means exposing work for inspection or removing it. Checking first is far cheaper.
Usually yes — commonly a footing or framing inspection and a final. Your local jurisdiction's permit page lists the required stages.