Obtaining a building permit is an important step in the construction process. However, permits do not last indefinitely. Many factors determine how long a building permit is valid for before it expires. Understanding building permit duration can help ensure your project stays on schedule.

What Is a Building Permit?

A building permit is an official document issued by a local government agency that gives permission to start construction on a building project. Permits are required for most structural work, including:

New construction projects like building a house, garage or commercial structure.
Additions and expansions, like adding a room or building a second story.
Major renovations, like kitchen and bath remodels.
Structural alterations, like removing walls or adding dormers.
Accessory structures, like sheds, detached garages and gazebos.
Pools, decks and other outdoor construction.

Permits are issued after a detailed review of your project plans. This ensures your designs meet local zoning laws and codes for health, safety and land use. Building inspections occur throughout construction to verify work complies with the approved plans.

Why Do Building Permits Expire?

Building permits have a time limit to promote the timely completion of construction projects. Reasons permits expire include:

Encourage construction progress – Expiration deadlines discourage property owners from starting projects they are not prepared to finish in a reasonable timeframe. Obtaining a permit requires paying fees and having inspections. Permit expiration limits this administrative burden on local code offices if projects stall.

Reflect changing code requirements – Building codes, construction products and installation methods evolve over time. Expired permits may need to be re-reviewed under newer codes adopted since the original application.

Avoid prolonged disruptions – Vacant half-finished buildings can detract from neighborhood aesthetics and safety for extended periods. Permit expirations limit how long partially completed structures can remain in communities.

Reduce violation opportunities – Lengthy construction projects increase chances of unapproved deviations from the accepted plans. Limited permit validity also cuts down chances for unauthorized work.

While permits do expire, most jurisdictions allow for renewal to keep projects on track. We will cover that process later in this article.

Typical Building Permit Validity Period

The duration a building permit is active before expiring varies by location. Common ranges are:

6 months – This is a typical minimum. It allows reasonably prompt starts but can be restrictive for large projects.
12 months – One year is a commonly adopted validity period in many areas for standard residential and commercial permits.
24 months – Some jurisdictions allow up to two years to commence work under issued permits. This provides flexibility for complex and staged projects.
36 months – In a few instances three year terms are permitted. This occurs generally for very large-scale developments and facilities.

Some municipalities break permits into shorter segments. Examples are separate excavation, foundation and building installation permits. Each has independent expiration terms focused on those project stages.

While specific timeframes differ, most local governments only allow relatively brief initial permit terms. Short validity periods are meant to avoid properties remaining perpetually unfinished. Renewal extensions are commonly available if authorized construction starts on schedule.

Factors That Impact Building Permit Validity

Several key factors can influence the lifespan of a building permit before it expires:

Project Scale and Complexity

Larger and more elaborate projects often have longer permit validity terms. Standard single family homes typically receive shorter periods than major developments. The rationale is to allow adequate time based on the size of the job.

Permit Type

As mentioned, separate permits with independent expiration dates may be issued for grading, foundations, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and general building construction. For example, a jurisdiction could allow six months for excavation work and one year for finishing the house. Different permit types have validity durations suited to the stage of work.

Local Regulations

Each jurisdiction determines standard permit terms and renewal options based on policies and past practices. Adopted state and county codes also influence area building departments. Researching local requirements is important when planning projects.

Longer permit validity may be possible in some areas by paying additional fees or meeting special criteria. Understanding the standard regional timeframes helps avoid unexpected delays.

Previous Permit History

Properties with incomplete projects or expired permits in the past may receive shorter deadlines for subsequent work. Areas with pattern of abandoned projects tend to impose tighter windows to promote timely construction.

Economic Conditions

Slower development during housing market downturns may motivate jurisdictions to extend initial permit validity periods. In growing economies with high demand, standard shorter terms often apply to encourage prompt building completion amid competing projects. Permit duration limits may also relax following natural disasters to allow rebuilding.

Starting the Permit Clock

When the countdown begins on a permit’s validity period depends on local policies:

Date of issuance – The validity term starts running when the permit is formally granted. Even if work does not commence immediately, the expiration date is set based on when approved.
Date of submittal – Some areas extend the clock from when plans are first submitted or deemed complete for review. The rational is not to penalize applicants for permit office delays.
Date of first inspection – Alternatively, the period only begins counting down when the first onsite inspection is conducted after work begins. This provides more time to organize the project before the term starts.

Other jurisdictions employ hybrid approaches, such as setting an overall expiration date one year from permit issuance but requiring construction commence within 180 days. Be sure to clarify when your permit’s expiration term begins based on local procedures.

Building Permit Renewal and Extensions

Most jurisdictions do allow building permits to be renewed or extended if work could not be completed before the initial expiration date. Typical processes to gain additional validity include:

Renewal – Formal renewal reissues the permit with a new expiration date, often for a period similar to the original term. Renewals usually require submitting an application and paying a fee.
Extension – A defined extension pushes out the expiration a set period, such as 90 days or 6 months, without reissuing the entire permit. Extensions are an administrative action typically done by request or application.
Reinstatement – Reinstatement reactivates a permit that has been expired for a short grace period, such as 30 or 60 days past the lapse date. A simple application and fee can restore the original expiration date.

The number and duration of renewals or extensions eligible for a permit varies. Some jurisdictions only allow a single term renewal while others provide multiple extensions if progress is demonstrated. Work stoppages or abandonment can disqualify permits from being extended.

Consequences for Allowing Building Permits to Expire

Once a building permit expires, work must halt until the permit is renewed or reinstated. Continuing construction without a valid permit can potentially lead to:

Fines and penalties – Carrying on work illegally or failing to renew permits may result in citations and fines for violation of building codes.
Stop work orders – The local building department may issue an order to halt construction immediately if it is proceeding on an expired or lapsed permit.
Repeat fees and plan reviews – Applying for a fully new permit after long delays or abandonment may require paying the original fees again and resubmitting plans for updated reviews under current codes.
Removal of unauthorized work – Construction done beyond the permit validity period or without proper inspections may need to be removed and re-done later.
Permit approval delays – Properties with expired permits may undergo extra scrutiny or processing delays when seeking permits for future projects.

Avoiding these consequences makes staying aware of building permit expiration dates and seeking renewals on schedule vital for smooth project completion.

Tracking Ongoing Permit Validity

You can track building permit status and validity several ways as construction progresses:

Maintain your own permit calendar – Mark your calendar or create reminders for yourself in advance of expiration dates and required inspections or renewals.
Check online permit records – Many local government departments post building permit records, status and expiration dates online for public access.
Contact the building department – Call or visit the office that granted the permit and request a status update and confirm the expiration term and date.
Communicate with your contractor – Ensure your builder or contractor is monitoring permit status as a matter of routine practice.
Reference the permit placard – The permit form posted onsite typically lists the permit number, scope of work, issuing jurisdiction, expiration and other details for reference.
Note inspection dates – Dates of each mandatory inspection are useful references for gauging progress to estimate remaining validity needed.

Staying on top of expiration timing helps identify a soon to lapse permit early so renewal can be smoothly completed.

Special Considerations for Building Permit Validity

A few other situations can impact building permit status and expiration:

Change of contractor – Transferring the permit to a new contractor requires administrative updates but does not reset validity dates.
Transfer of property – Selling the home or property before completion does not extend the permitted construction timeline.
Amended plans – Making permitted changes to the approved plans does not affect expiration unless an entirely new permit application is required.
Phased projects – For developments done in multiple phases, each may receive a separate permit with independent validity periods.

While the situations above do not themselves renew a permit, the jurisdiction may grant extensions if work transitions cause delays. But otherwise the original or standard expiration terms continue applying in most cases.

When Does a Building Permit Expire Summary

The duration that a building permit is active before expiring can vary from just a few months up to two years or more depending on local regulations. Typical residential project validity ranges from 6-12 months, with larger developments often receiving longer terms. Extensions or renewals are commonly available, though permits eventually do expire if work ceases.

Tracking permit expiration dates, completing construction on schedule, and requesting renewals or reinstatements if needed are all vital parts of the building process. Paying attention to permit validity from issuance through completion can prevent unexpected delays in finishing your construction project.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Permit Validity

Here are answers to some common questions about how long building permits stay valid before they expire:

How soon after getting a permit does construction need to start?

Standard policy is construction must begin within 180 days of permit issuance or validity term start date in most jurisdictions. Some may require work to commence within 30-90 days. Starting quickly is recommended so that you do not risk the permit expiring before the project gets underway.

Can I renew a building permit after it expires?

Yes, most jurisdictions allow expired permits to be renewed within a certain grace period, such as 30-90 days after lapsing, or upon request and payment of a renewal fee. Work cannot resume until the building department renews the permit. Extensive delays may require updated reviews.

How long are building permits valid for new home construction?

A typical new home permit is issued for 6-12 months. More complex custom home projects may receive up to 24 month terms. If the home is not finished within initial validity, renewal extensions can be obtained to complete construction.

Do building permits expire if work is ongoing?

No, permits remain valid and do not expire automatically if construction is continuously progressing with proper inspections. The expiration term only applies if work stops and no occupancy has been granted. Ongoing projects can continue through initial and renewal terms.

Can I get a refund on a building permit if it expires?

Because you can apply for permit renewal and extensions, prepaid fees for an expired permit typically cannot be refunded if you choose to abandon the project. Jurisdictions invest administrative costs in permits and rely on fee revenues. Only unused add-on fees may be eligible for refund.

Does changing contractors reset the permit expiration?

No, transferring a permit to a new general contractor or builder does not restart the validity period or expiration date. The permit term continues running from original issuance date regardless of the constructor overseeing the work.

How long are permits for renovations and remodeling valid?

Residential remodeling projects usually receive initial permit validity for 6-12 months. Commercial renovations with extensive scope may qualify for 18-24 month terms. Renewals and extensions are available if projects encounter delays but make steady progress.

Can I do a small part of the project to keep the permit from expiring?

Some jurisdictions may allow minimal work like an initial site survey or basic utilities installation to qualify as commencement to avoid near-term expiration. However, substantial progress expectations still apply for renewal approval after the minimum activity.

Do multi-year new home communities get one permit?

Large scale new developments are often divided into separate filings or phases, each with independent permits and expiration terms tailored to the stage. Model home permits may also be distinct from production builder home blocks within the same community.

Conclusion

Monitoring building permit expiration dates is an important responsibility through every construction project. While validity periods vary, most jurisdictions impose initial deadlines between 6-24 months. Allowing permits to lapse risks fines, delays and added costs if work cannot legally continue. Renewals and extensions provide flexibility to keep projects on track. Careful attention to permit durations and milestones helps ensure you can achieve your property improvement goals.

How to Check if a Building Permit Is Still Valid?

After receiving your building permit, it is essential to periodically check that it remains valid and has not expired before construction is complete. Here are some tips on how to verify your permit status is current:

Check permit dates – The permit document will note dates of issuance and expiration, typically found on the first page. Compare to current date to see if it has lapsed.

Check online permit records – Many municipal websites now provide online access to permit status, inspections and expiration dates. Search for your address or permit number.

Call the building department – Contact the office that issued the permit by phone and provide the address or permit number. Ask them to confirm expiration status.

Reference permit inspection card – The inspection card displayed onsite lists inspections completed and often notes permit expiration date.

Account for extensions – If you obtained authorized extensions or renewals, those will push out the original expiration accordingly, so refer to extension documentation.

Check with your contractor – Your builder or contractor is required to monitor permit status and validity as part of their standard practices.

Note inspection dates – Completing required inspections by indicated milestones is often tied to maintaining an active permit.

See if stop work order issued – You will be notified if the permit lapses and work proceeds illegally, but also look for posted stop work orders onsite.

** Avoid unfinished gaps** – Ongoing work provides evidence the permit remains open, but long lapses in activity increase risk it may expire.

Keeping tabs on permit expiration is essential to make sure your project stays on legal footing. A few quick checks of key dates and records can prevent the headaches of an invalid permit bringing work to a halt.

When Do Building Permits Expire?

Building permits have defined terms in which construction must commence or be completed before they expire. Here are some key expiration scenarios:

No start of work – If no inspections are scheduled or work begun by deadline, such as 180 days from issuance.
No progress – If long gaps of inactivity occur after starting, permitting office may deem permit expired.
Time limit – Most permits expire automatically if not completed within term length, often 6-24 months duration.
Failure of inspections – Critical stage inspections must pass or permit may be revoked before full term lapses.
** Project abandonment** – Stopping work indefinitely with no intent to finish is grounds for expiration regardless of term status.
Sale of property – Ownership transfers do not extend permit validity period; new owners inherit any remaining time.
No renewal – Permits typically expire if not renewed prior to initial expiration date or grace period after lapsing.
Refusal to renew – Building departments can deny renewal requests if development codes or policies were violated.

Staying aware of key expiration triggers, procedures and dates according to local permit terms helps avoid illegal construction delays throughout your project.

How to Renew an Expired Building Permit?

If your building permit lapses or expires before construction is finished, here are typical steps to renew it:

Check grace period – Some jurisdictions allow permits to be reactivated shortly after expiring, such as 30 days. Renewal is simpler within the grace window.

Submit renewal application – Complete required renewal request paperwork and forms. Demonstrate work was reasonably begun and ongoing.

Pay renewal fees – A permit renewal fee, often similar to the original amount, normally applies and must be paid.

Obtain inspections – An inspection may be required to confirm existing work if permit has been inactive and is not current.

Prove adherence to codes – Affirm no violations of building codes or zoning rules have occurred that prevent renewal.

Get changes approved – Any revisions to the original approved plans may need new reviews and approvals before renewal.

Have work timeline approved – Provide a construction timeline for completion and verify the renewal duration is sufficient.

Receive renewal permit – Once approved, the building department will issue a renewed permit with a new validity expiration date.

Resume work – Construction can restart once the renewed permit is granted; post it onsite per requirements.

Staying aware of renewal procedures can help get expired permits reactivated promptly so projects can continue with minimum disruption.

Avoiding Building Permit Expiration

It is best to avoid having your building permit expire in the first place. Here are some tips to help your project stay on track and keep permits valid:

Apply for adequate initial duration based on project scope and size if the option exists.
Account for weather delays by starting early in validity period if possible.
Complete inspections promptly at each stage to show progress.
Notify the building department about unforeseen delays that arise to discuss options.
Renew the permit early if additional time will be required to finish.
Maintain good records of permit details, duration and expiration dates.
Suspend work carefully if needed to not jeopardize permit validity.
Hire reputable contractors who diligently monitor permits and

How Long Is a Building Permit Valid?