Find the right permit and inspection office.
The office responsible for a project is usually determined by its exact address and the work proposed. Start with the city or county serving the property.
Start with an official directory
Find your local government by state ↗
The U.S. government directory helps you locate official local sites. On that site, choose your state, then find the city or county with authority over the property. Look for Building, Development Services, Planning, or Permits.
Ask the office these questions
- Does this specific scope require a building permit, a planning approval, or separate trade permits?
- Who may apply and which drawings or supporting documents are required?
- Which inspections are required and at what stage must each occur?
- How are inspection appointments requested and results recorded?
- What is required to close the permit or receive final occupancy approval?
Typical inspection checkpoints
Depending on the project and jurisdiction, inspection may occur after site or foundation work, after framing and rough electrical/plumbing/mechanical work, before concealed assemblies are covered, and when the work is complete. This is an example sequence, not a schedule for your property. Get the official sequence from the issuing office and the approved permit.
Examples of official local portals
These examples apply only to properties within their jurisdictions. Do not file with an example office simply because it appears here.
Keep an approval record
Save the permit number, approved drawings, inspection requests, results, correction notices, revisions, and final sign-off. Ask the team who is responsible for each filing and inspection. Before paying a final invoice, confirm any required approval is recorded with the office that issued the permit.