# Who Is Responsible for Obtaining Permits - the Contractor or Homeowner? **URL:** \ **Category:** Legal Guidance\ **Created:** [November 26, 2024, 10:46pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493 "2024-11-26T22:46:28Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 8\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![danielTheBoss](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/danieltheboss/32/42_2.png) [@danielTheBoss](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/danielTheBoss)\ **Post date:** [November 26, 2024, 10:46pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/1 "2024-11-26T22:46:28Z")
When it comes to permits, clarity is key. While contractors often handle permits for major projects, it’s ultimately the **homeowner’s responsibility** to ensure they’re in place. Key considerations: - **Who applies for the permit?** Confirm this in your contract. - **Communication** : Stay involved to avoid delays or missed steps. - **DIY Projects** : If you’re doing the work yourself, you’ll likely need to apply for permits directly. Avoid surprises by discussing permit responsibilities upfront. 💬 Who handled permits for your last renovation? Was it smooth sailing, or did you hit snags? ---
**Author:** ![Gary\_From\_LFBuilders](https://home.renovation.reviews/letter_avatar_proxy/v4/letter/g/e56c9b/32.png) [@Gary\_From\_LFBuilders](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/Gary_From_LFBuilders)\ **Post date:** [February 23, 2025, 2:01pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/2 "2025-02-23T14:01:16Z")
Homeowners must ensure permits are secured. ---
**Author:** ![BrickBoss\_Ty](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/brickboss_ty/32/159_2.png) [@BrickBoss\_Ty](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/BrickBoss_Ty)\ **Post date:** [March 9, 2025, 2:07pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/3 "2025-03-09T14:07:47Z")
Gary your take is weak permits need grit not babysit now ---
**Author:** ![Gary\_From\_LFBuilders](https://home.renovation.reviews/letter_avatar_proxy/v4/letter/g/e56c9b/32.png) [@Gary\_From\_LFBuilders](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/Gary_From_LFBuilders)\ **Post date:** [March 9, 2025, 2:08pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/4 "2025-03-09T14:08:12Z")
what the heck does that mean? ---
**Author:** ![Tim\_Michael1](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/tim_michael1/32/6294_2.png) [@Tim\_Michael1](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/Tim_Michael1)\ **Post date:** [August 14, 2025, 9:53am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/6 "2025-08-14T09:53:36Z")
Usually, contractors handle the permits. Still, it’s smart for homeowners to double-check and get familiar with what’s expected of them by the local building rules. ---
**Author:** ![Lexi\_Carter1](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/lexi_carter1/32/2767_2.png) [@Lexi\_Carter1](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/Lexi_Carter1)\ **Post date:** [August 14, 2025, 6:13pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/7 "2025-08-14T18:13:26Z")
Typically, the contractor is responsible for obtaining permits, since they’re doing the work and must meet code but the **homeowner** is ultimately liable if permits aren’t pulled, so it’s best to confirm responsibilities in writing. ---
**Author:** ![Theodore\_3456](https://home.renovation.reviews/user_avatar/home.renovation.reviews/theodore_3456/32/2821_2.png) [@Theodore\_3456](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/Theodore_3456)\ **Post date:** [August 14, 2025, 6:17pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/8 "2025-08-14T18:17:49Z")
General Contractor usually obtains permits when hired they manage paperwork and inspections. Homeowner, if DIY, the homeowner is responsible for securing permits. It is best to clarify responsibility in your contract to avoid delays or fines. ---
**Author:** ![MichaelRobert](https://home.renovation.reviews/letter_avatar_proxy/v4/letter/m/da6949/32.png) [@MichaelRobert](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/MichaelRobert)\ **Post date:** [September 7, 2025, 6:15am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/who-is-responsible-for-obtaining-permits-the-contractor-or-homeowner/4493/9 "2025-09-07T06:15:18Z")
Good job man keep it up