Do I need a building permit
in Dearborn, MI?

Do I need a permit in Dearborn, MI?

What's specific to Dearborn permits

Dearborn adopted Michigan's version of the Residential Code, which incorporates the latest IRC with state-specific amendments. The key Michigan variation: state law requires licensed electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors for any work touching those systems, even on owner-occupied homes. This means a basement renovation, a kitchen remodel, or even running a new outlet requires a licensed electrical contractor. You can do the framing, drywall, painting, and finishes yourself, but the moment electricity is involved, a licensed electrician must pull and file the electrical permit. This isn't bureaucratic gatekeeping — it's a direct state statute. Dearborn enforces it consistently.

The 42-inch frost depth is the city's defining constraint for anything that sits in the ground. Deck footings must extend at least 42 inches below finished grade to avoid frost heave, which is the seasonal freeze-thaw cycle that pushes footings up and out of the ground. Many DIYers install deck posts at 36 inches — the IRC standard in warmer zones — and watch them heave every spring. Dearborn inspectors will reject a footing at 36 inches. Same rule applies to fence posts, foundation work, and permanent structures. Temporary structures and gardening beds sit in a gray zone, but the safest assumption is 42 inches for anything structural.

Dearborn's permit portal and over-the-counter process vary. As of this writing, the city does not have a fully online permit application system — most homeowners and contractors file in person or by mail at the City of Dearborn Building Department. Call the Building Department directly to confirm current hours and the exact address for filing. The processing timeline for a simple fence or deck permit is typically 5-10 business days for plan review; electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits often run 2-3 weeks because they require state contractor verification. Inspection requests are usually scheduled within 3-5 business days of filing, but you cannot request an inspection until the permit is approved.

Corner-lot sight-triangle rules and setback enforcement are strict in Dearborn. A fence or wall on a corner lot must preserve sight lines for traffic safety — typically 20-30 feet from the intersection corner, depending on street classification. Walls, sheds, and deck structures in side yards must conform to setback rules that vary by zoning district. The #1 reason Dearborn permits get bounced is missing or inaccurate site plans showing property lines, setbacks, and lot corners. Upload or submit a scaled site plan with your permit application. Even a hand-drawn plan with dimensions measured and labeled is better than none.

Seasonal timing matters in Dearborn. Frost-heave season runs October through April, so footing inspections are easiest to schedule May through September. If you're pouring deck footings or digging foundation work in winter, the inspector may require you to wait until spring to certify that footings have settled and haven't shifted. Plan exterior projects accordingly. Roofing, siding, and interior work are year-round, so those permits move faster in winter when inspectors have more availability.

Most common Dearborn permit projects

These five project types account for the majority of residential permit requests in Dearborn. Each has specific triggers, fee structures, and inspection sequences. Click any project to see the detailed local rules.