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Type your zip code or city name — instantly see fees, timelines, required documents, and exactly what you need to get your permit approved.

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Estimate Your Permit Costs in 2 Minutes

Tell us about your project and we'll show you every permit you'll need, expected fees, approval timelines, and tips to get approved faster.

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Why FreePermitApp?

Everything you need to file your permit — free

No hidden fees, no account required. Just the local permit information you need, right now.

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No cost, no signup, no credit card. Every permit guide is completely free to access — always.

20,000+ Jurisdictions

Nationwide coverage across every US county and city. Find your local requirements in seconds, anywhere in the country.

Step-by-Step Filing

Detailed instructions for every permit type — fees, timelines, required documents, and tips to get approved faster.

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Updated regularly via automated data collection. Permit rules change — we keep up so you don't have to.

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What Homeowners Are Saying About Building Permits

Real discussions from r/homeimprovement, r/DIY, and more — curated from thousands of conversations about permits, renovations, and code compliance. Updated every 4 hours.

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Ready to start your project? Get your free permit guide.

Look up your local building department and see exactly what permits you need, what documents to prepare, and what fees to expect. Takes under 2 minutes.

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FAQ

Common questions

Everything homeowners ask before starting the permit process.

It depends on the project type and your city. Generally, structural work (additions, decks), electrical panel upgrades, HVAC replacements, and plumbing changes require permits. Minor cosmetic work usually does not. Search your zip code above to see the exact rules for your jurisdiction.

Timelines vary dramatically by city — from 1 business day for simple over-the-counter permits to 8+ weeks for complex projects in large cities. Enter your zip code to see the typical approval timeline in your jurisdiction.

Building without a required permit can result in fines, forced removal of unpermitted work, complications when selling your home, insurance claim denials, and personal liability. It's not worth the risk. The permit process exists to ensure your project is safe.

Our permit guides are completely free for homeowners. We connect homeowners with licensed contractors and permit services when they want professional help — that's how we keep the lights on.

In most jurisdictions, homeowners can pull their own permits for work on their primary residence. Commercial projects and some trade work (electrical, plumbing in some states) may require a licensed contractor to apply. Our search results include contractor requirements for your specific city.

Find your local building permit requirements in seconds