Do I need a permit for kitchen remodel in Ann Arbor?
Most likely yes. Kitchen remodel usually requires a permit in Michigan. Confirm the specifics with Ann Arbor.
Cabinets, countertops, tiling, and painting are exempt from a building permit statewide (R 408.30505), but that exemption does not cover wiring, piping, or gas work. LARA states a permit is required to add to or alter electrical conductors or equipment, and that mechanical work may not start until a permit is issued, except for replacing minor parts. Removing or cutting a wall, beam, or bearing support is not an ordinary repair and needs a building permit. Replacing or rearranging plumbing fixtures or pipes is outside Michigan's plumbing permit exemptions. This remodel moves walls, plumbing or gas lines, or adds electrical circuits. Replacing cabinets, counters and appliances in place is the part of a kitchen remodel most often exempt; layout and trade work are not. Each trade normally needs its own permit and rough-in inspection before walls are closed, and removing a load bearing wall usually needs a beam detail or engineering. Gas line changes are work many places restrict to licensed gas fitters or plumbers, and a pressure test is commonly part of the inspection.
Documents you may need
- Electrical permit for new or altered circuitsLikely required
- Plumbing permit for a replaced or relocated sink, dishwasher connection, or pipingSometimes required
- Mechanical permit for gas piping or a ducted range hoodSometimes required
- Building permit and floor plan where walls are removed or openings changedSometimes required
Possible inspections
- Rough electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections for the trades involved
- Gas piping pressure test where gas piping is added or altered
- Framing inspection where walls or beams are changed
- Final inspections
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for kitchen remodel in Ann Arbor?
- Most likely yes. Kitchen remodel usually requires a permit in Michigan. Confirm the specifics with Ann Arbor. The documents and inspections sections on this page list what the building department typically asks for.
- Who issues the permit in Ann Arbor?
- The local building department for Ann Arbor handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.
- How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?
- Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.
PermitRoadmap is an independent informational service and is not affiliated with any city, county, state agency, or permitting authority. Results are informational and do not replace confirming requirements with the local permitting authority.