Michigan permits
Do you need a permit in Michigan?
Michigan permits are pulled at the county or municipal level. Most plumbing and electrical work requires a permit and a licensed trade pulling it. As a homeowner doing work on your own primary residence, you can pull permits yourself under MCL 339.5739 (plumbing) and MCL 338.881 (electrical), but you cannot pull permits as a homeowner if you intend to rent or sell the property within 12 months of completion.
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These are statewide ranges. Get your exact Michigan cost for your zip code and project size.
Can a homeowner pull the permit?
Yes, in most cases. Allowed for owner-occupied primary residences. Not allowed if selling or renting within 12 months. Permit-puller is liable for code compliance.
Where to file: County building inspection office or the municipal building department, depending on jurisdiction. Many counties have online portals; some still require an in-person visit. Plan to file at least 2 weeks before your demo date.
Permits by trade in Michigan
| Trade | When required | Citation | Typical fee | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plumbing | Any in-wall work, new fixtures, supply line changes | MCL 339.5739 | $75–$300 | Conditional |
| Electrical | New circuits, GFCI/AFCI upgrades, service changes, panel work | MCL 338.881 | $50–$250 | Conditional |
| Mechanical (HVAC) | Furnace, AC, ductwork replacement or new install | Michigan Mechanical Code | $60–$200 | No |
| Building (structural) | Structural changes, additions, decks over 30in off grade, finished basements | Michigan Residential Code | $150–$600 | Yes |
| Roofing | Re-roofs (most jurisdictions), structural deck repair | Local jurisdiction | $75–$200 | Yes |
| Demolition | Interior demo opening walls (some jurisdictions) | Local jurisdiction | $25–$100 | Yes |
Hover a Conditional or No entry for the homeowner rule. Always confirm with your local building department, since requirements vary by jurisdiction.
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