Ann Arbor Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Contact

Ann Arbor’s Building, Rental and Inspection Services division is the local building-code authority for projects inside the City of Ann Arbor. The city administers the Michigan construction codes and its own zoning and development standards. Washtenaw County or another municipality may enforce codes for an address outside the city, so use Michigan LARA’s jurisdiction information when the property boundary is unclear.

How to apply for an Ann Arbor building permit

Ann Arbor requires construction and trade permit applications to be submitted through STREAM, the city’s EnerGov-based online plan and permitting system. Create an account, choose the correct application category, enter the project location and scope, and upload plans and supporting documents. Licensed contractors may need to submit contractor licensing information through the account before applying for permits that require state licensing.

The city’s application guidance distinguishes building permits from trade permits and explains that a building permit must be approved before associated trade permits are released. The system dashboard is used for permit status, messages, payments, and inspection requests. Zoning-compliance permits and certain planning applications also use STREAM.

Ann Arbor inspections, zoning, and compliance

Request inspections through the STREAM dashboard after the permit is eligible. Ann Arbor explains that inspection windows are arranged geographically and that an adult must provide access to an occupied property. Final approval depends on the inspections required for the project, including building and applicable electrical, mechanical, and plumbing inspections.

City Code requires zoning review of building-permit applications. Some work that does not require a building permit, such as certain fences, sheds, decks, pools, changes of use, or home occupations, may still require a zoning-compliance permit. Ann Arbor also issues zoning information and analysis reports through STREAM; building inspection history and some certificate records may require a city records request.

Official contact information

Ann Arbor lists 301 East Huron Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 and (734) 794-6000 for the city, with Building and Rental Services permit questions at (734) 794-6263. Use the STREAM portal for applications, permit management, payments, and inspection requests.