Permit drawings for the renovation you’re actually planning.
Not every interior change needs a permit, but most of the ones that matter do: moving walls, finishing a basement, relocating plumbing, adding electrical circuits. We draw what your municipality needs to approve the change, whether that’s one wall or a full interior gut.
What triggers a permit here.
A permit is required for any “material alteration”: work that changes structure, plumbing, electrical, HVAC or a load-bearing wall.
- 01
Load-bearing wall
Removing or altering a wall that carries the structure above it.
Needs a permit?Yes, plus a structural stamp from an outside licensed professional.
- 02
Non-load-bearing wall
Removing a wall with no electrical, plumbing or HVAC running through it.
Needs a permit?Often not, but confirm with your municipality first.
- 03
Finished basement
Turning a basement into habitable living space.
Needs a permit?Yes, to confirm egress windows, ceiling height, fire separation and ventilation.
- 04
Kitchen or bathroom
A new kitchen or bathroom, or a refresh of the one you have.
Needs a permit?Yes if plumbing moves or new electrical circuits go in. Usually not for a cosmetic refresh with the same layout and fixtures.
This is the fast version. For the full comparison, see Basic vs. Major Renovation.
What’s in the drawing package.
Existing and proposed plans
Both floor plans side by side, with wall removals and additions clearly marked and load-bearing status noted.
Structural coordination
Included wherever a load-bearing wall is involved.
Electrical and plumbing notes
Changes noted for the trades who pull those separate permits.
Basement details
Fire separation and egress details for basement work.
Load-bearing walls get their own page.
Planning to take out a wall? See Load-Bearing Wall Removal.
Timeline, honestly.
A few weeks to a couple of months
The common range for an interior alteration, depending on the municipality and how complete the submission is.
Non-structural changes
A simple layout change with no structural work tends to move faster.
Structure and basements
A load-bearing wall or a full basement finish adds structural and life-safety review steps.
Pick the question closest to yours.
Load-Bearing Wall Removal
Coordinated with an outside licensed professional wherever the Building Code calls for a stamp.
Do I Need a Permit?
A self-check before you call anyone.
Process
Feasibility check, drawings, coordination and permit submission, in order.
Describe the change, and we’ll tell you what your municipality needs.
One wall or a full interior gut, tell us what you’re changing and we’ll tell you what the building department needs to see.