Apply for a Building Permit

A building permit is needed whenever you are doing structural work to a home or building. This includes projects like major renovations, remodeling, new construction, additions, garages, or sheds larger than 20' by 10'. Plans must be included with your application for most projects.

To apply for a permit as a homeowner, you must verify that you are the owner the building department has on record. If you are a contractor, please click here and follow the instructions register in BS&A Online.

Online

Step 1.Review Requirements

Before starting any work or applying for permits, please review the requirements for obtaining building permits. This will let you know what you need to submit and when you should call to schedule inspections. 

View Requirements for Obtaining Building Permits

Step 2.Search for the Property on BS&A Online

Click the link below and search for the property you are applying for a building permit for. Select the property and click the next button. 

Search BS&A Online

Note: If you visit BS&A from a bookmark or a different link, you can access Building Department features like applying for a permit from the left side services menu. Just click "Apply for a Permit" under the Building Department header. 

Step 3.Enter the Permit Details

Select the type of permit from the drop-down menu and then enter the details for your work. The information that you are asked will depend on the type of permit that you select. Follow the prompts from BS&A Online and enter all of the requested information. You will also need to upload documents related to your permit, which should include plans or drawings. 

BS&A will allow you to estimate certain costs associated with your application, but a member of our team will calculate the total fees and follow up with you after the application has been reviewed.

Step 4.Submit Application 

You will have the opportunity to review all of the information that has been entered before submitting. Verify that everything is correct and then click submit. A member of our team will follow up regarding your application and to arrange payment of the total fees. 

Step 5.Review and Approval  

Your application will be reviewed by our building & trades staff. They may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by email and receive an invoice with the total permit fee. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks. 

Step 6.Apply for Other Permits 

Depending on the scope of work, other permits may be necessary. Make sure you submit applications for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or other permits if necessary. 

 

By Mail

Step 1.Review Requirements

Before starting any work or applying for permits, please review the requirements for obtaining building permits. This will let you know what you need to submit and when you should call to schedule inspections. 

View Requirements for Obtaining Building Permits

Step 2.Complete the Building Permit Application

Complete the Building Permit Application(PDF, 478KB) and return it by mail to:

Community Planning & Economic Development
245 N Rose Street
Suite 100
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

You can also return it in person or scan the application and email it to development@kalamazoocity.org. Make sure you include any needed supporting documents like plans or drawings.  

All permit application must be signed. 

Step 3.Review and Approval  

Your application will be reviewed by our building & trades staff who may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by mail and receive an invoice with the total permit fee. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks. 

Step 4.Apply for Other Permits 

Depending on the scope of work, other permits may be necessary. Make sure you submit applications for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or other permits if necessary. 

In Person

Step 1.Review Requirements

Before starting any work or applying for permits, please review the requirements for obtaining building permits. This will let you know what you need to submit and when you should call to schedule inspections. 

View Requirements for Obtaining Building Permits

Step 2.Complete the Building Permit Application

Visit the Community Planning & Economic Development department office and pick up a copy of the Building Permit Application(PDF, 478KB).

Community Planning & Economic Development
245 N Rose Street
Suite 100
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Complete the application and return it to our office during regular business hours. You can also mail it or scan the application and email it to development@kalamazoocity.org. Make sure you include any needed supporting documents like plans or drawings.  

Step 3.Review and Approval  

Your application will be reviewed by our building & trades staff who may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified and receive an invoice with the total permit fee. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks. 

Step 4.Apply for Other Permits 

Depending on the scope of work, other permits may be necessary. Make sure you submit applications for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or other permits if necessary. 

By Phone

Unfortunately, we are unable to process permit applications by phone, but we are happy to answer questions about the process or help connect you with the our building & trades team. If you have questions, call 311 or (269) 337-8000.