Building Permit Fee Estimator

Estimate building permit costs for any project type. Results are national average estimates — actual fees vary by jurisdiction.

Project Information

Project Type

Project Valuation ($) Total estimated construction cost

Square Footage (if applicable) Floor area of new construction or addition

Jurisdiction Size

Fees vary significantly by jurisdiction. These are national average estimates only. Always verify with your local building department.

Estimated Permit Fees

Base Permit Fee $0

Plan Check Fee $0

Inspection Fee $0

Total Estimated Fees $0

% of Project Cost 0.00%

Typical Permit Fees by Project Type

How to Get a Building Permit

Determine if a permit is required

Contact your local building department or check their website. Most jurisdictions require permits for structural work, new construction, additions, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work. Minor cosmetic work typically does not need a permit.

Prepare drawings and plans

Gather architectural drawings, site plans, floor plans, and specifications. For complex projects, hire a licensed architect or engineer. Some jurisdictions accept simple hand-drawn plans for minor work.

Submit your application

Submit permit application, plans, and fee payment to your building department. Many jurisdictions now accept online applications. Include your project description, valuation, and contact information.

Plan review

A building official or plan reviewer checks your plans for code compliance. Simple permits may be issued over-the-counter. New construction and complex projects may take 4–12 weeks. You may need to address comments or revise plans.

Permit issuance

Once approved, you pay the remaining fees and receive your permit. Post the permit card visibly on the job site — inspectors need to see it. Keep approved plans on site at all times.

Schedule required inspections

Most projects require inspections at key stages: foundation/footing, framing (rough-in), insulation, drywall, and final. Call to schedule inspections before covering any work. Work must stop until each inspection is passed.

Final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy

After all work is complete and passes final inspection, you receive a Certificate of Occupancy (for new construction) or a signed permit card (for renovations). Keep these documents permanently — they may be needed when selling.

When You Generally Do NOT Need a Permit

Painting interior or exterior walls

Replacing flooring (carpet, tile, hardwood)

Installing or replacing cabinets and countertops

Replacing like-for-like fixtures (toilet, faucet)

Minor electrical repairs (replacing outlets, switches)

Landscaping (excluding retaining walls over 4 ft)

Small sheds under 120 sq ft (varies by jurisdiction)

Water heater replacement (some jurisdictions require permit)

Rules vary by jurisdiction. When in doubt, call your local building department — it is free to ask.

How to Use This Estimator

Select your project type — Choose from 11 common project types including new construction, remodel, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more.

Enter project valuation — Input the total estimated construction cost. This drives the permit fee calculation for most project types.

Select jurisdiction size — Large cities generally charge higher permit fees than small towns. This adjusts the estimate with a jurisdiction multiplier.

Review the breakdown — See estimated base permit fee, plan check fee, inspection fee, and total. The percentage of project cost is also shown.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are building permit fees calculated?

Building permit fees are typically based on project valuation (a percentage of construction cost), square footage, or a flat rate by project type. Jurisdictions add a plan check fee (usually 65–85% of the permit fee) and inspection fees. Total fees commonly range from 0.5% to 2% of project value.

Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel?

Yes, most bathroom remodels require a permit if they involve moving or adding plumbing, electrical work, or structural changes. Cosmetic updates like replacing fixtures, tile, or paint usually do not require a permit. Check with your local building department before starting any significant work.

What happens if you build without a permit?

Building without a required permit can result in fines (often 2–4× the permit fee), a stop-work order, required demolition of unpermitted work, difficulty selling the home, insurance claim denials, and personal liability for injuries or damage resulting from code violations.

How long does it take to get a building permit?

Permit timelines vary significantly by jurisdiction. Simple trade permits (electrical, plumbing) can be issued same-day or within a few days. New construction and large additions may require 4–12 weeks for plan review. Expedited review is often available for an additional fee of 25–100% of the standard plan check fee.