Building Permits for Businesses

Are you ready to open for business? Read on to learn more about building permits and how they might apply to your business.

Exterior Modifications 

Building permits are required for almost all exterior modifications or site improvements, including signage. A permit is not required to paint or re-paint a building.


Interior Modifications

Building permits are required for most interior modifications, except purely cosmetic changes. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Modifying walls
  • Modifying fire alarms or sprinklers
  • Drop ceilings
  • Some merchandising racks, such as those attached to walls
  • Modifying HVAC systems
  • Modifying plumbing
  • Remodeling or adding bathrooms or kitchens

Purely cosmetic changes, such as replacing countertops or flooring, do not require a permit.

Who do I talk to about building permits?

Building permits are processed by the City's Department of Planning & Development Services. You can get in touch by emailing or calling:

How do I check the status of my pending permit application?

You can check the status of your permit by visiting the City's Self-Service Permit Portal (SSPP). You don't need to be logged in to search, just click "Search Public Records" and enter your permit number or property address.