Permit Guides

Warning What Happens If You Build Without a Permit? Fines, forced demolition, and problems at resale — the real cost of skipping a permit. Cost Guide How Much Does a Building Permit Cost? Real fee data from 10 major cities — from simple fences to full ADUs. How-To How Long Does a Building Permit Take? City-by-city processing times and how to speed up your permit. Project Guide Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck? When deck permits are required, what they cost, and city-specific rules. Project Guide Fence Permit Guide When you need a fence permit, height rules, and what to do about HOAs. Project Guide Kitchen Remodel Permit Guide What kitchen work needs permits and what doesn't — plus trade permit rules. Project Guide Pool Permit Guide Pool permits are always required. Here's the full process and barrier rules. State Guide ADU Permit Guide New laws have transformed ADU permitting. Here's what's required in 2026. Project Guide Roof Replacement Permit Guide Most cities require roof permits — especially in hurricane and fire zones. How-To How to Pass a Building Inspection What inspectors look for and how to prepare so your project passes first time. Project Guide Shed Permit Guide Size thresholds, setback rules, and when a backyard shed needs a permit. Project Guide Bathroom Remodel Permit Guide Cosmetic updates rarely need permits — but plumbing and electrical changes almost always do. Project Guide Solar Panel Permit Guide Solar installations always require permits. Here's the full process and what to expect. Project Guide Garage Conversion Permit Guide Converting a garage to livable space or an ADU requires multiple permits — here's what's involved. Project Guide HVAC Permit Guide Furnace and AC replacements almost always need a mechanical permit — find out what's required. Project Guide Home Addition Permit Guide Adding square footage is one of the most heavily permitted project types. Here's the full picture. How-To How to Apply for a Building Permit A step-by-step walkthrough — from gathering documents to getting your final sign-off.