Permits

Overview

A building permit application must be completed whenever a building is to be erected, altered, enlarged, structurally repaired, moved, or converted to different use groups as defined in the building code.

For more information, contact the Building Department at 248-733-3700.

When a Permit is Required

Building permits are required to install the following:

  • Decks (including porches)
  • Garages or carports
  • Hot tubs
  • Pools that are more than 24 inches deep
  • Replacement windows 
  • Doors when the opening size is altered
  • Swimming Pools

When a Permit is Not Required

  • Prefabricated above-ground pools less than 24 inches deep
  • When less than 25% of a roof is being replaced
  • Private property driveways on grade
  • Redecorating
  • Replacing doors that don't alter the opening size
  • Sheds less than 100 feet in size

Provisions for Certain Projects
The following are specific provisions that must be met in order to complete building permit application packages. For more information, contact the Building Department at 248-733-3700.

For a Deck
You must submit a completed building permit; a site plan showing to scale the proposed location and dimensions of the proposed deck; and a basic sketch of the design of the deck including the left, right, and rear yard setbacks, the sizes and spacing of posts, beams, joists, and decking, as well as steps and guardrails. If you live in a new subdivision you may also need subdivision association approval.

For a Garage
You must submit a completed building permit application, a site plan showing to scale the proposed location (five foot minimum side and rear setbacks), and dimensions of the proposed garage. You will also need to provide building plans including the sizes and spacing of studs, beams, rafters, and roof decking, as well as footing and siding. The plans must include a front elevation drawing that is drawn to scale so that we can verify that the midpoint roof height does not exceed twelve feet.

For an Addition
You must submit a completed building permit, a site plan showing to scale the proposed location, and dimensions of the proposed addition. Construction plans must be submitted showing the sizes and spacing of studs, posts, beams, floor joists, ceiling joists, rafters, and roof decking, as well as footing and siding. An elevation drawing is also required.

Duration of the Building Permit
Once a building permit is approved, construction must start within six months. After construction is started the permit will continue to be in effect as long as continuing progress is shown. A permit that does not show activity for a six-month period will lapse.