If you’re planning to build a new house, addition, or major renovation, an early planning step is checking the permit and submission requirements. Building departments commonly ask for drawings that describe the proposed work and demonstrate compliance with the applicable requirements.
After more than 20 years working as a licensed architect, one of the most common questions I hear from homeowners is: “What drawings are required to get a building permit?”
Requirements can differ substantially by jurisdiction, project type, and scope. The drawing types below are a starting point, not a universal submission checklist. Ask the local building department for its current requirements, including required professional seals, calculations, forms, and separate trade permits.
Before a permit drawing set is created, the overall layout and concept of the home must first be developed. If you’re starting from the beginning, you may want to read How to Design Your Own House, which explains the early stages of planning a home.
Here are common drawing types you may be asked to provide.
The site plan shows how the building sits on the property.
This drawing usually includes:
The site plan helps the city confirm that the project complies with zoning rules such as setback requirements and lot coverage limits.
Survey information is often used to prepare this drawing accurately.
Floor plans are one of the most important parts of the permit set.
A floor plan shows the layout of each level of the building from a top-down view. It identifies the size and function of rooms as well as the location of walls, doors, and windows.
Typical information included in floor plans:
Floor plans help reviewers understand how the building will function and whether it meets code requirements such as minimum room sizes and safe egress paths.
Elevations show the exterior appearance of the building.
These drawings illustrate what the building will look like from each side and typically include:
Elevations show building height, roof slopes, window placement, exterior materials, and architectural features.
Local zoning departments often use elevations to verify that the structure meets height limits and potential neighborhood design requirements.
A building section is a vertical cut through the structure.
Sections reveal how the building is constructed from the foundation to the roof.
Information typically shown in sections includes:
Sections help building officials confirm that the structure meets construction and energy code requirements.
Structural drawings provide detailed information about how the building will safely support loads.
These drawings may include:
In many projects, a structural engineer prepares these drawings or reviews the design to ensure it meets code requirements.
Electrical drawings show the layout of lighting, outlets, and electrical systems throughout the building.
Typical elements include:
These plans help ensure the building meets safety standards and electrical code requirements.
Mechanical plans show heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, while plumbing plans show water supply and drainage systems.
Mechanical drawings may include:
Plumbing drawings typically show:
Together, these plans confirm that building systems are designed safely and efficiently.
Many jurisdictions require energy code compliance documentation as part of the permit submission.
These reports demonstrate that the building meets required standards for insulation, windows, air sealing, and overall energy performance.
Energy compliance requirements vary by state but are commonly included in residential permit applications.
Submitting a clear and complete set of drawings helps the permit review process move much more smoothly.
Incomplete or unclear drawings often lead to plan review comments and delays.
A well-prepared permit set allows reviewers to quickly verify that the project meets all applicable regulations.
It also provides contractors with clear instructions for construction once the permit is approved.
Construction drawings also help contractors provide accurate pricing. Without clear plans, it can be difficult to estimate the true cost to build a house, since many important details may still be undefined.
In most projects, architects are responsible for preparing permit drawings and coordinating engineering requirements. If you’re unsure who to hire first for your project, read Architect vs Builder: Who Should You Hire First?
The International Code Council’s building-permit overview explains the general process. Your local building department determines the requirements that apply to your project.
While the exact requirements vary by location, most building permits require a similar group of drawings: site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, and structural information.
These documents work together to describe how the building will look, how it will function, and how it will be safely constructed.
Understanding what goes into a permit drawing set can help homeowners better prepare for the design process and avoid delays when submitting a project for approval.
Many permit issues actually begin during the early design phase. Avoiding common layout and planning errors can make the permit process much smoother, which is why it helps to understand the 10 biggest mistakes people make when designing a house.
Robert, AIA, NCARB writes Designed and Built to explain architecture and construction in practical terms. Explore related guides or find a starting point.
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