For current info please visit detroitmi.gov
Supervising Building Inspector
(313) 224-0297
[email protected]
For current info please visit detroitmi.gov
The Plan Review Division is responsible for ensuring that developments or building projects comply with the City of Detroit adopted Ordinances and Codes. The staff performs review of the permit application and plans for the proposed projects.
How to Apply for permits online
Watch some helpful videos that will walk you through the application process and plan review process.
Step 1. Create an eLaps account
Step 2. Submit an application for permit online
Step 3. Access your ePlans account and upload drawings
Step 4. Check the status of your project in ePlans
Step 5. Submit corrections or download approved plans
Step 6. Download your permit from eLapsClick here for a Step-by-Step Guide that breaks down the process
Building Permits: Make sure you submit the appropriate & required documents to obtain your building permit.
Sign Permits
As of December 9, 2020, Chapter 4 of the 2019 Detroit City Code Advertising and Signs Ordinance for advertisement and business signs was amended.
Check out the Sign Permits page for information about the changes and FAQs about applying for Sign Permits.
How to Request a Pre-Plan Consultation
If you have Building Code or Trade Code related questions, you can request a Pre-Plan Consultation meeting to answer questions prior to your submission
Plan review involves the verification of compliance to City of Detroit Zoning Ordinance, Michigan Building Code, Michigan Residential Code, Michigan Rehabilitation Code, Michigan Electrical Code, Michigan Mechanical Code, Michigan Plumbing Code, International Fuel Gas Code, City Elevator Code and Boiler Code.
The division also coordinates the plan reviews with various other City Departments and Agencies such as Health, Water & Sewerage, City Engineering, Traffic Engineering, Planning & Development, City Planning Commission and Fire Marshal for their reviews and approvals, thus making sure that other pertinent codes and ordinances are followed in the design and execution of the project.
The division reviews and approves Building Permits, Demolition Permits, Sign Permits, Awning Permits, and Temporary Use Permits.
A Scope of Work is a complete list of all the work being done on your house that you want included on the permit you are applying for.
If the layout of the house or size/shape of the house is changing in any way, drawings will also be necessary.
A Site Plan is a drawing of the property showing the dimensions of the lot, the dimensions & shape of the house, the dimensions of any outbuildings, and the location on the lot and proximity to other structures on the property. Distance to property lot lines are requires, as are the front and rear setback distances.
A Site Plan is required any time you are changing the shape of the house. This includes any additions, repairs on front or rear porches (other than just replacing rotting wood), any new outbuildings you are proposing to add to the lot (i.e. garages or sheds).
A homeowner can pull all permits for work anytime the owner is going to use it as their primary residence.
If it will be a rental property or resale property, the building permit is the only permit that can be pulled by the owner. The trade permits (electrical, mechanical, and plumbing) will have to be pulled and work will need to be done by a licenses professional.
Please call Georgine Gersdorff at (313) 268-6655 or the Development Resource Center at (313) 224-2372 for ProjectDox password assistance.
Contact [email protected] for password assistance.
You can renew your City of Detroit Registration on Accela (eLaps) website under the License tab at the top of the page.
A copy of the permit is available in your Accela (eLaps) account.
Click on the permit number.
Click Record Info.
Click Attachments.
There will be a list of all documents attached to the record. The permit will be listed.
When your permit has been approved, you will need a copy of the stamped, approved drawings.
Return to your ProjectDox account.
Find the project number.
You will find the approved drawings in the Approved folder.
We would like you to make an appointment if you need to visit. However, most visits can be avoided by using our online system to apply for your permits.
Please call the DRC at (313) 224-2372 for instructions on next steps in your journey to the finish line.
Guide to submit to revise an existing permit
Information required when applying for permits with MRCEB
Step-by-step instructions on the permitting process
DRC/Plan Review staff email contact information
To assist permit applicant with the procedure for submitting permit applications online using eLaps (Accela) and ePlans (ProjectDox)
Federal Regulations on Lead Safety
As part of our commitment to innovation and customer service, to provide a more transparent and efficient Plan Review process, The City of Detroit Buildings Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) has launched City of Detroit “ePLANS” for all Conditional Use Hearings, Building Permits, requiring plan review and/or Site Plan Review Applications as part of a major effort to overhaul its permitting operation.
The Building, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) is pleased to offer citizens, businesses, and visitors access to government services online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through Accela / eLAPS. BSEED’s new application allows you to submit your applications for trade licenses, business licenses and permits.
Assistance for customers seeking building permits from BSEED.
Advertising and Sign Permits