Some alterations, additions or repairs to residential and commercial buildings require a permit and inspection by the Buildings and Safety Engineering Department. To inquire whether you need a permit for your building alteration, addition or repair, please call 224-3235 during business hours. To inquire about erecting a new building or to have zoning questions answered, you should first contact the Permit Information Center at 224-3236 during business hours. Also, remember that Michigan law and federal regulations require you to notify utilities before any excavating. After receiving a permit, a copy of the approved plans must be kept on site at all times, and work must proceed according to plans.
Building permits are valid for six months from the date of issuance.
Old sign structures or sign frames not in use or not maintained should be removed. All exterior signs, including portable signs on the sidewalk or berm in front of a business, require approval and the issuance of annual permits. Please report situations requiring sign enforcement, including removal of portable signs blocking the sidewalk. Please be advised that temporary signs and banners on the exterior of buildings, structures, and fences also require permits from the Buildings and Safety Engineering Department and can be obtained at the Zoning counter in Room 402 of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center. Building code violations or unsafe conditions Overcrowded conditions, locked or blocked exits, and other unsafe conditions should be reported immediately.