FAQs

Building Department FAQs

All building and permit fees are listed in the Township Fee Schedule, which can be viewed by clicking here.

If you have questions, please contact the Township Office at (269) 857-7721.

Q: What do I need a permit for?

Permits are typically required for projects that change the structure or use of a building or have the potential to create unsafe conditions.
You will likely need a permit to:

• Add or remove walls
• Change the use of a room
• Modify plumbing or piping
• Re-roof your house
• Demolish part of a structure

Projects that usually don’t require a permit include:

• Painting or minor cosmetic work
• Installing a new front door
• Replacing certain appliances or faucets
• Building a small fence

Depending on your project, you may also need electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits (for example, to install a lawn sprinkler or central air conditioning unit).

To confirm whether your project requires a permit, contact the Building and Permit Office before starting work.

Q: What happened after I submit my building permit application?

After submission:

• When the project is complete and all inspections have passed, a Certificate of Occupancy may be issued (if applicable).
• The Building Official and Zoning Administrator review your application for completeness.
• The Building Inspector reviews plans for compliance with the Michigan Building Code.
• Once approved, your permit is issued and inspections are scheduled.

Q: How long is my permit valid?

Permits are valid for one year from the issue date.
If you need an extension, contact the Township Office before the permit expires. Extended permits are valid for a total of two years from the original issue date.
Permit fees must be paid before a permit is issued.

Q: What happens if I don’t get a permit?

Working without a required permit can result in fines or even a stop-work order. In some cases, unpermitted work may have to be removed or redone.
Avoid costly issues—apply for the proper permits before starting any project.

Q: What happens if I want to cancel my permit?

A permit may only be cancelled if no inspections have been completed.
If cancelled, 50% of the permit fee will be refunded; the remaining 50% is retained as a processing fee.

Q: Where can I get a permit application?

Permit applications are available:

• By mail upon request
• Online through the Township website
• In person at the Township Office

Q: When do I have to pay for my permit?

Payment is due before the permit is issued. Permits will not be released until full payment is received.

Q: How can I pay for my permit?

You can pay by:

• Check, money order, or exact cash at the Township Office
• Credit card online (2.85% convenience fee applies)

Note: Credit cards cannot be processed in person at the Township Office.

Q: How much is the building permit fee?

The base fee is $100, plus $4 per $1,000 of project value.
Permit fees are capped at $8,500, not including additional inspections or professional services.
Refer to the Township Fee Schedule for details.

Q: How much is each inspection?

• Building permit inspections: $100 each
• Electrical, mechanical, or plumbing inspections: $125 each

See the Township Fee Schedule for a full list of inspection fees.

Q: How do I schedule an inspection?

Contact the appropriate inspector directly:

Q: My question isn’t listed here, what do I do?

If you don’t see your question above, please contact the Township Office at (269) 857-7721 or click the Contact Us button below for assistance.