Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $100–$250 Standard flat fee for residential re-roofing including inspection.
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Department of Safety and Permits →

What's Required in New Orleans

  • Permit required for any complete roof replacement.
  • Maximum of two layers of shingles allowed.
  • Ice and water shield mandatory in valleys and at eaves.
  • Drip edge must be installed per building code.
  • Attic ventilation must be maintained per code.
  • Work in historic districts (VCC/HDLC) requires material approval.

Do You Need a Permit to Replace a Roof in New Orleans

In almost every case, yes — a full roof replacement (a tear-off and re-cover, or a complete reroof) requires a building permit in New Orleans, issued by the Department of Safety and Permits. Replacing the roof covering is regulated work because it affects the structure’s weather envelope and, on a tear-off, exposes the sheathing for inspection. A licensed roofing contractor usually pulls the permit, and an inspection may be required after the old material is removed and again at completion. Permit-free roofing is generally limited to minor repairs — not a whole-roof replacement.

Roof Repair vs. Replacement: When You Need a Permit in New Orleans

The dividing line in New Orleans is usually the scope of work. Small repairs — patching a leak, swapping a few damaged shingles, or fixing flashing — often don’t require a permit. A full replacement, a tear-off down to the deck, adding a second layer over the old shingles, or any change to the roof structure (rafters, trusses, sheathing) generally does. Some cities also cap how much roof area you can repair before it counts as a replacement. Because that threshold and any wind- or fire-zone rules vary, confirm the cutoff with the Department of Safety and Permits — the requirements above list what New Orleans expects.

How to Get a Roof Replacement Permit in New Orleans

1

Step 1: Check Historic Status

Ensure your new shingles or tiles are approved for your district.

2

Step 2: Apply Online

File for the roofing permit via the One Stop App.

3

Step 3: Pay Fees

Submit the flat residential roofing permit fee.

4

Step 4: Installation

Execute the tear-off and replacement according to code.

5

Step 5: Final Inspection

Inspector checks the flashing, venting, and material layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Replacing less than 25% of the roof may be exempt from a permit.
Yes, if it is your primary residence.
A maximum of two layers of shingles is permitted.
Yes — a full roof replacement or tear-off requires a building permit in New Orleans from the Department of Safety and Permits, and it’s usually pulled by a licensed roofing contractor. Minor repairs (a small patch or a few shingles) are often exempt. Confirm the repair-vs-replacement threshold with the Department of Safety and Permits.