Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $75–$200 Standard residential re-roofing fee is fixed based on a single-family dwelling unit.
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department →

What's Required in Detroit

  • Permit required for any project involving the removal of existing shingles.
  • Maximum of 2 layers of roofing allowed before a total tear-off is mandatory.
  • Ice and water shield must extend 24 inches inside the exterior wall line.
  • Drip edge must be installed at all eaves and gables.
  • Attic ventilation must be maintained or improved during the project.
  • Contractor must have a valid Michigan Residential Builder license.

Do You Need a Permit to Replace a Roof in Detroit

In almost every case, yes — a full roof replacement (a tear-off and re-cover, or a complete reroof) requires a building permit in Detroit, issued by the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department. 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 Detroit

The dividing line in Detroit 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 Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department — the requirements above list what Detroit expects.

How to Get a Roof Replacement Permit in Detroit

1

Step 1: Contractor Check

Verify your roofer is registered with BSEED and holds a state license.

2

Step 2: Online Filing

Apply for the 'Building' permit via the e-service portal.

3

Step 3: Document Upload

Upload a brief scope of work and material list.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the flat permit fee online to activate the permit.

5

Step 5: Inspection

Schedule a final inspection once the roof is complete; ladder must be provided for inspector.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, repairs involving less than 1 square (100 sq ft) of material usually do not require a permit.
Yes, if it is your primary residence, you can pull a homeowner's permit.
A separate permit is required if the garage is a detached structure.
Yes — a full roof replacement or tear-off requires a building permit in Detroit from the Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department, 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 Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department.