Do You Need a Permit for Concrete Work?

Whether you need a permit for concrete work depends entirely on your local jurisdiction—there's no universal rule. However, general patterns exist: driveways, foundations, and large slabs typically require permits, while small patios, walkways, and repairs usually don't. The only way to know for certain is to check with your local building department.

Permits exist to ensure work meets safety codes and doesn't create problems for you or your neighbors. Skipping required permits can cause serious headaches when selling your home.

General Permit Guidelines

While requirements vary, here's what most jurisdictions follow:

Usually Requires a Permit

Project	Why It Needs a Permit
New driveway	Affects drainage, street access
Driveway replacement	Same reasons as new
Foundation work	Structural, affects building safety
Footings for structures	Structural support
Large slabs (often >200 sqft)	Potential drainage impact
Work near property lines	Setback requirements
Attached patios/porches	Connected to main structure
Pool decks	Pool permits usually include deck

Usually Doesn't Require a Permit

Project	Why It's Typically Exempt
Small patios (<200 sqft)	Minimal impact
Walkways and paths	Non-structural
Stepping stones	Minimal work
Repairs and resurfacing	Maintaining existing
Shed pads (small)	Under size threshold
Replacing same-size slab	Like-for-like replacement

Important: "Usually" isn't "always." Your jurisdiction may differ significantly from these general guidelines.

How to Check Your Local Requirements

Step 1: Find Your Building Department

Search for: "[Your city/county] building permits" or "[Your city/county] building department"

Look for the official government website (.gov domain).

Step 2: Check Online Resources

Many jurisdictions publish:

• Permit requirement guides
• Lists of work requiring permits
• Lists of exempt work
• Application forms and fees

Step 3: Call or Visit

If online information isn't clear, call the building department directly. Ask:

• "Do I need a permit for [specific project]?"
• "What's the application process?"
• "What inspections are required?"
• "What's the fee?"

Building department staff answer these questions daily—they expect the call.

Step 4: Get It in Writing

If your project is borderline, get written confirmation that a permit isn't required. This protects you during future home sale.

What Permits Cover

When you pull a permit, you're agreeing to:

1. Build to code: Meet minimum standards for thickness, reinforcement, setbacks, drainage
2. Allow inspections: Building inspector verifies work at key stages
3. Create a record: Permitted work is documented for the property
4. Ensure safety: Work won't create hazards

For driveway specifications that meet code, thickness and reinforcement standards are typically outlined in your local building code.

The Permit Process

Typical Steps

1. Submit application with project details (dimensions, location, materials)
2. Pay fee ($50-500 depending on project and location)
3. Receive approval (days to weeks)
4. Schedule pre-pour inspection (if required)
5. Complete work per approved plans
6. Schedule final inspection
7. Receive sign-off

Timeline

Step	Typical Time
Application review	1-14 days
Pre-pour inspection	Schedule 24-48 hours ahead
Final inspection	Schedule 24-48 hours ahead

Costs

Project Type	Typical Permit Fee
Driveway	$50-200
Patio	$50-150
Foundation work	$200-500

Fees vary widely by location. Some areas charge flat fees; others calculate based on project value.

What Happens If You Skip a Permit

During the Project

• Stop work order: If an inspector notices unpermitted work, they can halt your project
• Fines: Typically 2-10× the original permit fee
• Required removal: In extreme cases, you may need to remove the work

When Selling Your Home

• Title search reveals it: Buyers' title companies often check permit history
• Appraisal issues: Unpermitted improvements may not add to home value
• Buyer demands: Buyers may require permits be obtained retroactively
• Disclosure requirements: You may be legally required to disclose unpermitted work
• Deal falls through: Some buyers walk away from unpermitted work

Retroactive Permits

Some jurisdictions allow you to obtain permits after work is done, but:

• Fees are often higher (penalty included)
• Inspection may require exposing work (cutting into concrete)
• Work may need to be redone if not to code
• Not all jurisdictions allow retroactive permits

HOA Considerations

If you live in an HOA community:

• HOA approval is often required in addition to building permits
• HOA may have stricter requirements than the city/county
• HOA approval doesn't replace building permits
• Submit to HOA first (they often take longer)

Contractors and Permits

Who Pulls the Permit?

This varies:

• Contractor pulls permit: Most common for larger jobs. They're the responsible party.
• Homeowner pulls permit: Acceptable for DIY work or when contractor requests it.
• Either: Some jurisdictions allow either arrangement.

Red flag: A contractor who suggests skipping permits to "save money" is a contractor to avoid. This puts YOU at risk, not them.

Licensed contractors typically handle permits as part of their service. See how to hire a concrete contractor.

What to Ask Your Contractor

• "Will you obtain the necessary permits?"
• "Are permits included in your quote?"
• "Who schedules the inspections?"

After Permit Approval

Once your permit is approved, you'll need inspections. See our concrete inspection checklist for what inspectors look for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a concrete patio?

It depends on your location and patio size. Many jurisdictions exempt small patios (under 200 sqft) that aren't attached to the house. Larger patios, attached structures, or those in setback areas typically require permits. Check with your local building department to be certain.

What happens if I pour concrete without a permit?

If caught during construction: stop work order and fines (often 2-10× the permit fee). Later: problems when selling your home, as unpermitted work must often be disclosed and can derail sales. Some buyers refuse homes with unpermitted improvements.

How much does a concrete permit cost?

Typically $50-200 for driveways and patios, $200-500 for foundation work. Fees vary significantly by location. Some jurisdictions charge flat rates; others base fees on project value. Call your local building department for exact costs.

Do contractors pull permits or do I?

Usually the contractor pulls permits for work they're performing—it makes them the responsible party. For DIY projects, you pull the permit yourself. Some contractors ask homeowners to pull permits, which is a minor red flag (it shifts liability to you).

Key Takeaways

• Requirements vary locally—always check with your building department
• Driveways and foundations usually need permits; small patios often don't
• Permit fees typically range from $50-500
• Skipping permits creates problems when selling your home
• Contractors should handle permits for work they perform
• Get written confirmation if told a permit isn't required

For project planning, use our concrete calculator. For complete guidance, see our complete concrete guide.