Delaware building departments
Find local permit offices, inspection services, and official resources across Delaware.
How permitting works in Delaware
County and municipal codes. Delaware has no statewide building code. Kent, New Castle, and Sussex counties issue permits in unincorporated areas, incorporated towns may run their own offices, and all local codes must meet the state energy code.
A county name is only a geographic starting point. Depending on the address, a city, town, borough, township, or county office may issue your permit. How to check who issues your permit.
Delaware building codes and licensing
- Residential code
- No statewide residential building code; Kent, New Castle, and Sussex counties and municipalities adopt their own, with a state-set minimum energy code
- Outside city limits
- The Kent County Levy Court and the New Castle and Sussex county councils may adopt and enforce building, plumbing, and electrical codes and charge fees. In New Castle County, state law directs the county council to issue the New Castle County Building Code.
- Contractor licensing
- Anyone doing business in Delaware as a contractor must get a contractor business license from the Division of Revenue ($75 fee) before or when signing a contract. Delaware Division of Revenue (contractor business license) (opens in a new tab)
What is different in Delaware
- County and municipal codes must meet the latest IECC within 12 months of its adoption by the Delaware Energy Office. Per the U.S. Department of Energy, Delaware's current state energy code is the 2024 IECC, effective April 11, 2026.
- Local governments may adopt stricter energy stretch codes, but a stretch code may not entirely replace the state-adopted energy code without a formal process overseen by the Delaware Energy Office.
Delaware department guides
Browse Delaware counties
Planning a project in Delaware?
Start with what the model codes say, then confirm local rules with the department that serves your address.