Vol. 2026 · Residential Permit Atlas · Official-source based

Do I need a permit
to build that?

A field guide to residential building permits across 48 U.S. cities: decks, fences, sheds, ADUs, pools, additions, HVAC, roofing, solar. Read the room, then pull the permit.

§ 01

Coverage by city

Deck Fence Shed ADU Pool

Permit coverage

 

§ 02 Compare across cities

§ 03 Companion calculators

§ 04 Editorial note

Permit Lookup compiles requirements from official city and county sources. Thresholds change; always confirm with your local building department before breaking ground.