Clinton Township Building Permits: What to Do First
If your property is in the Charter Township of Clinton in Macomb County, Michigan, the Township Building Department is the starting point for building permits, plan reviews, electrical, plumbing and mechanical permits, inspections, code questions, rental-property requirements and many ordinance issues.
One important detail can save you a wasted application: this page is for the Charter Township of Clinton in Macomb County. Michigan has other places named Clinton Township. A mailing address alone should not be used to decide which government issues your permit.
Open official Building Department
Open inspection request form
Open official fee schedule
Open current codes
Building Department Contact Information
| Department | Charter Township of Clinton Building Department |
|---|---|
| Address | 40700 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038 |
| Building Department | 586-286-9323 |
| Fax | 586-286-9484 |
| General building email | Building@clintontownship.com |
| Permit submissions | BuildingPermits@clintontownship.com |
| Office hours | Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. |
| Inspection requests | Online Building Inspection Request form |
If you are visiting for a complicated project, call first. A quick conversation can prevent a second trip when your project needs Planning, Public Services, Fire Department, engineering or another approval in addition to the building permit.
Which Permits Does Clinton Township Handle?
Clinton Township publishes separate applications for building work and the major construction trades. One project can require more than one permit. A basement remodel, for example, may involve a building permit plus electrical, plumbing or mechanical permits depending on the work.
| Permit or service | Typical work |
|---|---|
| Building permit | New buildings, additions, remodeling, structural changes, decks, garages, sheds and other regulated construction. |
| Electrical permit | Electrical service, circuits, wiring, generators, EV charging equipment and other regulated electrical work. |
| Mechanical permit | Furnaces, air conditioning, HVAC equipment, ductwork, gas piping and related mechanical systems. |
| Plumbing permit | Plumbing fixtures, water distribution, drains, sewers and other regulated plumbing work. |
| Reroof permit | Residential and commercial roof replacement subject to Township requirements. |
| Fence permit | New or replacement fencing where a Township permit is required. |
| Sign permit | Permanent, temporary and other regulated signs. |
| Sidewalk / approach permit | Applicable residential sidewalk and approach work. |
| Temporary structure / tent | Temporary structures and tents subject to local requirements. |
| Manufactured housing | Applicable manufactured/mobile housing installation work. |
| Rental property | Residential rental packets, inspection information and program requirements. |
| Township certification | Certification process for a new business or applicable change in occupancy/use. |
The Township specifically identifies additions, antennas, awnings, basement egress windows, basement finishing, basement waterproofing, decks, arbors, gazebos, demolitions, fences, garage or basement floor replacement, garages, sheds, hot tubs, pools, porches, reroofing, sidewalks, approaches and certain window changes among work that can require building permits.
How to Apply for a Clinton Township Building Permit
-
Confirm the property is under Clinton Township jurisdiction.
Make sure you are dealing with the Charter Township of Clinton in Macomb County. If location or zoning is uncertain, check the Township zoning map before preparing final drawings.
Open Clinton Township zoning map -
Identify every permit your project needs.
A building permit does not automatically include electrical, mechanical or plumbing work. Review the Building Department’s permit list and download each applicable form.
View official permit applications -
Complete the building permit application.
Be ready to provide the property address, parcel information, owner or lessee details, contractor information, estimated construction cost, project area and other project information.
Download building permit application -
Prepare drawings, plot plans and supporting documents.
Requirements depend on the project. Minor residential work commonly needs drawings and a plot plan or mortgage survey. Larger residential and commercial projects may require professionally prepared and sealed plans. -
Submit the complete package.
Applications can be submitted through the method allowed for that permit. The Township publishes BuildingPermits@clintontownship.com for building-permit submissions and also accepts applicable material in person. Larger plan sheets may need physical submission. -
Pay required fees and provide license documents.
Trade applications must include payment when submitted. If a contractor is not already registered with Clinton Township, or the local registration has expired, license documents may also be required. -
Wait for permit approval before starting regulated work.
Submission is not approval. The Township reviews the application and supporting plans first. Start permit-required work only after the permit is issued. -
Request inspections as the work progresses.
Required work must remain available for inspection at the proper stages. Clinton Township now directs inspection requests through its online form. -
Complete final inspections and close the permit.
Do not treat construction as administratively complete until required final approvals are recorded and any applicable occupancy requirements are satisfied.
What Documents Should You Prepare?
Minor residential projects
Clinton Township’s published permit information says minor residential permit requests generally need:
- A completed permit application.
- Two sets of drawings, including a wall section showing the proposed construction.
- Two copies of a plot plan or mortgage survey showing existing structures and the proposed project location.
Projects requiring formal plan review
The Township’s plan-review instructions identify the following standard submission package:
- Completed application.
- $100 plan examination fee where applicable.
- Two plan sets for residential work.
- Five plan sets for commercial or industrial work.
- Required specifications.
- Original professional seals and signatures where required.
The current building permit application states that residential homes with more than 3,500 square feet of habitable area, along with commercial and industrial plans where applicable, must be prepared under the supervision of a qualified Michigan architect or engineer and carry the design professional’s seal and signature as required.
Review Clinton Township plan-review requirements
Can you email or fax a building permit application?
The Township’s published FAQ allows building permit applications to be emailed or faxed when the submission is suitable for that method. It instructs applicants to include the application, required plans and contractor license information. Plans larger than standard letter-size sheets may need to be delivered in person or by mail.
If your plan set is large, engineered or unusual, calling 586-286-9323 before sending it can prevent an incomplete submission.
Clinton Township Building Permit Fees in 2026
Clinton Township publishes a detailed fee schedule covering building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, signs, bonds, plan review and other services. The final amount depends on your permit type and project scope, so the figures below are useful planning numbers rather than a substitute for the Township’s calculated invoice.
| Published fee item | Amount or method |
|---|---|
| Building contractor registration | $15 |
| Building application fee | $100 for new homes and commercial/industrial projects, or as determined by the Building Official |
| Minimum permit / inspection fee | $75 for trades unless another amount is specifically listed |
| Additional inspection / reinspection | $75 may be charged in qualifying situations |
| Residential addition or alteration | $100 minimum for construction cost up to $1,000; above that, $100 plus $5.50 per $1,000 or part thereof over $1,000 |
| Garage or shed up to 600 sq. ft. | $100 building permit + $55 plan review |
| Garage or shed over 600 sq. ft. | $120 building permit + $55 plan review |
| Deck, gazebo or arbor | $120 building permit + $55 plan review |
| Above-ground residential pool | $60 building permit + $55 plan review |
| In-ground residential pool | $170 building permit + $55 plan review |
| Residential hot tub | $60 building permit + $55 plan review |
| Residential fence | $60 building permit |
| Residential reroof | $110 building permit |
| Residential basement egress window | $120 building permit |
Separate electrical, mechanical and plumbing fees may apply to the same project. Bonds can also be required for many permits.
Check the full official Building Department fee schedule before payment
Permit bonds
Clinton Township’s fee schedule includes permit bonds in addition to permit fees for many projects. For example, residential additions and alterations carry a published $75 bond, while many other residential building permits also use a $75 bond unless specifically exempted or assigned another amount.
The schedule identifies fences, sidewalks, approaches, temporary structures, mobile homes and Township certifications among exceptions to the general bond requirement. Larger residential and commercial projects use different bond amounts.
How can Building Department fees be paid?
The Township’s payment information lists cash, check, money order and credit-card payment options where accepted. Confirm the exact amount and permitted payment method for your specific application before sending payment.
How Long Does a Clinton Township Permit Take?
Processing time depends on the project and how complete the submission is. Clinton Township’s accessory-building guide says to allow about 5 to 10 business days for those permits. Its published building FAQ says projects that do not require an engineer’s approval may commonly take about one to two weeks, with timing varying by season.
Sidewalk, approach and some reroof permits may be handled more quickly when the submission qualifies.
The fastest way to avoid a preventable delay is simple: submit the correct form, the right number of plans, a clear plot plan, required licenses and the correct payment together.
How long does the permit stay active?
Under Clinton Township’s published fee schedule, a permit can become invalid if authorized work does not begin within 180 days after issuance, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after it starts.
An expired permit may be eligible for one additional period of up to 180 days at 50% of the original permit fee. The extension must be requested in writing with justifiable cause, and the Building Official has discretion under the published rule.
How to Schedule a Clinton Township Building Inspection
Clinton Township has moved routine building inspection scheduling away from its old telephone system. The Township directs applicants to submit inspection requests online.
-
Open the official inspection form.
Go to the Township’s Building Inspection Request. -
Enter the inspection address.
Use the job-site street number and street name. -
Enter your requested inspection date.
Select the date requested in the form. -
Enter the permit number.
The form indicates that the permit number begins with the letter P. -
Select or describe the inspection type.
The Township gives examples such as footing, rough, ratwall, above-ground and final inspections. -
Add the on-site contact.
Provide the contact person’s name, primary phone number and email address. -
Add useful notes and submit.
Give the inspector information that may help with access or the specific work being inspected.
Prepare the site before the inspector arrives
- Make sure the work being inspected is complete and accessible.
- Do not conceal work that must be inspected while exposed.
- Keep the permit and applicable approved plans available.
- Make sure the inspector can safely reach the work area.
- Complete prior correction items before requesting a repeat inspection.
Clinton Township’s fee schedule allows a $75 additional inspection or reinspection fee in situations such as the job not being ready, the work being inaccessible, prior violation items remaining unresolved or work starting before required permits were obtained.
Common Residential Projects: What Clinton Township Requires
Sheds, detached garages and accessory buildings
Clinton Township’s accessory-building guide requires the permit before construction begins. The published submission list calls for two copies of several project documents, including:
- Mortgage survey showing the proposed building in relation to property lines, the house and easements.
- Typical wall-section details.
- Building elevation showing height.
- Floor plan showing openings and header sizes.
- Applicable driver’s and builder’s license information.
The local guide lists a maximum accessory-building height of one story or 14 feet. It also limits detached accessory-building size using lot and house-size formulas and generally limits a home to two detached accessory buildings, subject to the published area restrictions.
Setbacks deserve particular attention. The guide lists a 6-foot minimum rear setback and a general 3-foot side setback, while detached structures over 200 square feet must generally be 5 feet from a side property line or meet the guide’s fire-rating provision. Accessory structures also cannot be placed in an easement.
Open the official accessory-building guide
Decks
Deck construction is permit work listed by the Township. Clinton Township provides a residential wood deck construction guide based on the residential code it currently lists. Submit the building application, site information and construction details needed to show footing, framing, connection, stairs and guard requirements for the proposed design.
Open Clinton Township’s residential deck guide
Swimming pools, spas and hot tubs
Clinton Township’s residential pool guidance applies to above-ground and in-ground pools that hold 24 inches or more of water, including applicable spas and hot tubs.
The local guide states that a pool may not be located:
- On an easement.
- Less than 25 feet from the front lot line.
- Less than 4 feet from the pool wall to a building on the same lot.
- Less than 6 feet from a side or rear lot line to the water’s edge.
Published pool requirements include building, plumbing and electrical permits, with a mechanical permit where applicable. Pools 24 inches deep that use filtration require applicable electrical review, and the Township’s guide also requires an enclosure for pools meeting the stated depth threshold.
In-ground pool projects have an additional grading-plan requirement. Clinton Township instructs applicants to submit the grading plan to the Department of Public Services for engineering review and approval before the building permit is issued.
Review official residential pool requirements
Roof replacement
Yes, Clinton Township requires a permit for reroofing. The Township publishes a separate reroof application that asks for project information, roof area, construction cost, contractor or property-owner information, underlayment and ventilation details. Commercial flat-roof work also requires applicable product and energy-code information.
Download the Clinton Township reroof application
Fence
Fences are included among the Township’s permit-required minor residential projects. Before buying materials, confirm the proposed fence location against property lines, easements and applicable zoning requirements. The current fee schedule lists a $60 residential fence building-permit fee.
Basement finishing and egress windows
Basement finishing, remodeling and basement egress windows are among the Township’s listed permit projects. Electrical, plumbing or mechanical permits can also be needed when those systems are modified.
New homes, additions and major construction
These projects can require formal plan review, plot or site plans, structural details, trade permits and other approvals. New residential homes and commercial/industrial projects generally have the Township’s $100 application or plan examination charge at submission where applicable.
Zoning, Soil Erosion and Other Approvals
A building permit is only one part of some projects. Zoning controls where a structure may be placed and can affect setbacks, accessory structures, signs, pools and other improvements.
Use the official Clinton Township zoning map to identify the parcel’s mapped zoning classification, then confirm project-specific requirements when necessary.
Soil erosion
Projects involving grading, excavation, drainage or land disturbance may also need soil-erosion controls or related approvals. Clinton Township directs applicants to review erosion requirements before active work begins and to maintain the required controls throughout construction.
The Township’s building FAQ also notes Macomb County soil-erosion involvement for building projects. For a project that disturbs soil, ask early which Township and county approvals must be completed before excavation.
Building Codes Used in Clinton Township in 2026
Clinton Township’s current-code page lists the following editions and effective dates. The applicable code still depends on the project type and permit timing.
| Code | Township-listed edition / effective date |
|---|---|
| Michigan Building Code | 2021 — effective April 9, 2025 |
| Michigan Residential Code | 2015 — effective February 8, 2016 |
| Michigan Rehabilitation Code | 2021 — effective April 9, 2025 |
| International Property Maintenance Code | 2021 — effective April 9, 2025 |
| Accessibility | ICC A117.1-2017 — effective April 9, 2025 |
| Michigan Electrical Code / NEC | 2023 — effective March 12, 2024 |
| Michigan Mechanical Code | 2021 — effective March 12, 2024 |
| International Fuel Gas Code | 2021 — effective March 12, 2024 |
| Michigan Plumbing Code | 2021 — effective March 12, 2024 |
| International Fire Code | 2015 — effective June 5, 2017 |
Verify the Township’s current code list before preparing final plans
Homeowner Permits and Contractor Licensing
Clinton Township’s published FAQ says a homeowner may pull permits for work performed on their own property. However, if a contractor is doing any part of the work, the Township strongly suggests having the contractor obtain the appropriate permit so responsibility for the permitted work stays with that contractor.
A homeowner permit is not described by the Township as faster or cheaper than a contractor permit.
Verify the contractor before submitting
The Township links directly to Michigan’s state license database. Search using the contractor name or license number, confirm that the license is active and check that the classification is appropriate for the work.
Open Clinton Township contractor-license verification guidance
Certificate of Occupancy and New Business Certification
Do not move into, use or treat a newly constructed space as fully approved simply because the visible construction looks complete. Required inspections and applicable occupancy approvals must be completed.
Clinton Township’s FAQ specifically says a shed, deck, pool, fence or similar permit cannot be obtained for a new home before the home has received its final Certificate of Occupancy and the buyer’s name is on the property deed.
Opening a new business
Clinton Township publishes a Township Certification application for new businesses. The current form lists a $345 permit fee, including a $75 Fire Department inspection.
The form identifies Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fire and Public Services review areas. It also instructs applicants to have utilities turned on before inspection and keep the building accessible for inspection during the stated inspection period.
If you are remodeling the space, installing signs, changing the use or modifying building systems, additional permits may be required beyond the certification itself.
Rental Property Inspections
Clinton Township maintains separate residential rental-property information through the Building Department. Property owners and managers should review the current rental packet and inspection checklist before presenting a unit for inspection.
The Township specifically recommends using its checklist in advance so visible safety and maintenance problems can be corrected before the inspection, reducing avoidable repeat visits.
Building and Ordinance Complaints
Clinton Township’s Building Department handles many ordinance and property-maintenance complaints, but not every neighborhood issue goes to Building.
| Issue | Where to start |
|---|---|
| General building or ordinance complaint | Clinton Township Building Department |
| Construction debris at an active home site | Building Department — 586-286-9323 |
| Tall grass, weeds or overgrown vacant property | Department of Public Services — 586-286-9300 |
| HOA-only rule violation | Homeowners association unless the same issue also violates Township ordinance |
Common Permit Problems and the Practical Fix
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| Application is returned as incomplete | Check the form, required plan sets, plot plan, contractor credentials and payment together before resubmitting. |
| Project does not fit the lot | Check zoning, setbacks and easements before spending money on final construction drawings. |
| Inspection cannot be scheduled | Confirm the permit is active and enter the correct P-number in the Township’s online inspection form. |
| Inspector cannot approve the work | Read the correction carefully, keep affected work exposed and correct the cited item before requesting another inspection. |
| Permit has been inactive for months | Contact Building before doing more work; the Township’s 180-day expiration rules may apply. |
| Contractor says no permit is needed | Confirm directly with the Building Department instead of relying only on the contractor’s statement. |
| Multiple trade permits are involved | Track building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing approvals separately so one unfinished trade does not hold up final approval. |
If Your Property Is Not in Clinton Township
Michigan permitting is local. Nearby cities and townships can use different forms, fees, portals and inspection rules. If you discover that Clinton Township is not your permitting jurisdiction, use the guide for the municipality that actually controls the property.
For comparison, see our guides to the Birmingham, Michigan Building Department, Bloomfield Township Building Department, and Ann Arbor Building Department. Each jurisdiction has its own application and inspection process, so do not reuse Clinton Township forms elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the Clinton Township, Michigan Building Department?
The Building Department is at 40700 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township, Michigan 48038. The main Building Department phone number is 586-286-9323.
2. What are the Clinton Township Building Department hours?
Published office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding applicable closures or holidays.
3. How do I apply for a building permit in Clinton Township?
Download the applicable Township permit form, complete the project and contractor information, prepare required plans and plot information, include applicable fees and license documents, then submit the complete package using the method allowed by the Building Department. Do not begin regulated work until the permit is issued.
4. Can I email a Clinton Township building permit application?
Yes, the Township publishes email submission instructions for building permits. Current Building Department materials list BuildingPermits@clintontownship.com. Large plan sheets or projects requiring extensive plan review may need in-person or mailed plan sets, so verify the submission method before sending them.
5. How long does a Clinton Township building permit take?
Timing varies. The Township’s accessory-building guide says to allow roughly 5 to 10 business days, while its general FAQ says projects without engineer approval may commonly take about one to two weeks. Incomplete plans, seasonal workload and additional reviews can extend the process.
6. How do I schedule a building inspection in Clinton Township?
Use the Township’s online Building Inspection Request form. Enter the site address, requested date, permit number beginning with P, inspection type, contact person, phone number and email, then submit the request.
7. Do I need a permit to replace a roof in Clinton Township?
Yes. Clinton Township specifically lists reroofing as permit-required work and publishes a separate reroof permit application. The current fee schedule lists a $110 residential reroof building-permit fee, with other applicable charges possible.
8. Can a homeowner pull their own building permit in Clinton Township?
The Township says homeowners may pull permits for work on their own property. If a contractor is performing the work, however, the Township recommends having that contractor obtain the permit so responsibility for the permitted work stays with the contractor.
9. Does a shed, deck, fence or pool need a permit in Clinton Township?
These projects are included among the Township’s permit-related residential work. Requirements depend on project size, location and construction details. For a new house, the Township also says the final Certificate of Occupancy must be issued and the buyer must be on the deed before applying for these accessory-project permits.
10. What building codes does Clinton Township use in 2026?
The Township currently lists the 2021 Michigan Building Code, 2015 Michigan Residential Code, 2021 Michigan Mechanical and Plumbing Codes, 2023 Michigan Electrical Code/NEC, 2021 Michigan Rehabilitation Code and other listed accessibility, property-maintenance, fuel-gas and fire codes. Always check the Township’s current-code page for changes affecting your permit date.
Before You Submit
A permit application is much easier when the basic questions are settled first: Who has jurisdiction? Does the project fit the zoning rules? Which building and trade permits are needed? What drawings are required? Who is pulling the permit? And which inspections must happen before the work is covered?
For Clinton Township, start with the official Building Department, prepare a complete package and keep your permit number available throughout the job. That little bit of preparation can save days of back-and-forth later.
Open the official Clinton Township Building Department →
Information reviewed for 2026 using current Charter Township of Clinton Building Department pages, permit forms, inspection guidance, fee schedules, plan-review materials and code information. Permit fees, forms, staffing, code editions and procedures can change. USBuilding.org is an independent informational resource and does not issue permits, approve plans or schedule government inspections.