The Money Pocket · Printable checklist
Home Project Permit Checklist
A one-page checklist of common home projects, typical permit and inspection fee ranges, and the inspection sequence most cities follow.
Updated October 9, 2026 · themoneypocket.com
Usually needs a permit
- New structures, additions, and anything that changes load-bearing walls, beams, or the roof structure.
- New or relocated electrical circuits, panel upgrades, EV chargers, generators, and solar.
- New plumbing lines, water heater replacement (in most cities), gas lines, and sewer work.
- HVAC replacement or new ductwork.
- Decks over 200 sq ft, more than 30 inches above grade, or attached to the house.
- Fences over 7 ft (often lower in front yards), and any pool barrier.
- Pools and spas, re-roofing in many jurisdictions, window or door openings that are new or enlarged.
- Finishing a basement, converting a garage, or adding a bedroom (egress rules apply).
- Demolition of a building or a structural part of one.
Usually exempt
Based on the model code (IRC R105.2) — your city or county can be stricter.
- Painting, wallpaper, flooring, carpet, countertops, and cabinet replacement.
- One-story detached sheds or playhouses up to 200 sq ft (no utilities).
- Fences up to 7 ft and retaining walls up to 4 ft (not supporting a surcharge).
- Small, free-standing decks under 200 sq ft and no more than 30 inches above grade.
- Like-for-like fixture swaps (a faucet, a light fixture on an existing box).
Typical permit fee ranges
Base fee plus a value-based component, for a typical US city. Small towns run about 20% lower; high-cost metros 35% higher or more. Plan review, trade permits, and reinspections are extra.
| Project | Base fee | Plus, by project value |
|---|---|---|
| Minor remodel (kitchen, bath, no structural) | $75 – $250 | +0.4% – 1.2% of project value |
| Major remodel | $200 – $750 | +0.6% – 1.8% |
| Addition / structural work | $350 – $1,200 | +0.8% – 2.5% |
| Small electrical (circuit, outlet) | $50 – $150 | +0.2% – 0.8% |
| EV charger or appliance circuit | $75 – $250 | +0.3% – 1.2% |
| Panel upgrade / service change | $125 – $450 | +0.4% – 1.5% |
| Attached deck | $100 – $400 | +0.5% – 1.5% |
| Elevated deck with stairs | $175 – $700 | +0.7% – 2.2% |
| Backyard fence | $25 – $125 | +0.1% – 0.6% |
| Pool barrier fence | $100 – $350 | +0.3% – 1.2% |
| Above-ground pool | $50 – $250 | +0.2% – 1.0% |
| In-ground pool | $250 – $1,000 | +0.6% – 2.0% |
| Basement finish | $150 – $500 | +0.5% – 1.5% |
| Basement with bathroom | $300 – $950 | +0.8% – 2.2% |
| Interior demolition | $100 – $400 | +0.4% – 1.2% |
| House demolition | $200 – $900 | +0.6% – 1.8% |
Get a range for your project: building · electrical · deck · fence · pool · basement · demolition.
The inspection sequence
- Footing / foundation — before concrete is poured.
- Underground / under-slab — plumbing and electrical before they’re buried.
- Framing — structure, fire blocking, and openings.
- Rough-in — electrical, plumbing, and mechanical before walls close.
- Insulation / energy — before drywall.
- Final — everything complete; you get the certificate or permit sign-off.
Failed inspections usually trigger a reinspection fee ($75–$250 is common). Have the permit card and approved plans on site for every visit.
Questions to ask your building department
- Does this exact scope need a permit, and which trades need separate permits?
- Can a homeowner pull the permit, or must a licensed contractor?
- How are fees calculated — flat, by valuation, or by square footage? Is plan review extra?
- What drawings are required, and do they need a licensed designer or engineer?
- How long is review, and is expedited review available?
- Which inspections are required, and how do I schedule them?
- When does the permit expire if work stalls?
Before you hire
- Verify the contractor’s license with your state board and ask for a certificate of insurance.
- Put “contractor pulls all required permits” in the contract.
- Never make the final payment before the final inspection passes.
Fee ranges are planning estimates from our permit cost calculators, not quotes. Permit rules are set locally — always confirm with your building department.