Washington Building Permits

Official fees, requirements, and Department of Buildings application links for common residential projects in Washington, District of Columbia.

🏛 Department of Buildings 📅 Updated April 2026

About Building Permits in Washington

Building permits in Washington are issued by the DC Department of Buildings (DOB). Most residential permit applications are submitted online through the DC iBuild portal at dcra.dc.gov. Processing times for standard residential projects typically run 10–20 business days for standard residential permits.

DC Building Code (2018 IBC + local amendments). DC requires a separate Historic Preservation Review for properties in historic districts, which cover large portions of Capitol Hill, Georgetown, and other neighborhoods.

All inspections in DC are scheduled through the iBuild portal.

Project Types in Washington

Select a project to see permit requirements, fees, and how to apply.

Deck Permit$150–$500 -- Required Fence Permit$36.30–$150.00 -- Required Shed Permit$0–$100 -- Sometimes Required Pool Permit$300–$1,500 -- Required Roof Replacement Permit$0–$150 -- Sometimes Required Kitchen Remodel Permit$250–$1,200 -- Required Bathroom Remodel Permit$200–$800 -- Required ADU Permit$1,500–$5,000 -- Required Electrical Panel Permit$100–$250 -- Required HVAC Permit$150–$350 -- Required