The usual applicants
Most authorities accept applications from a short list of parties.
- The property owner, under a homeowner exemption, for their own residence.
- A licensed contractor performing the work.
- A licensed trade contractor for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits.
- A design professional or expediter acting as the owner's authorized agent.
What the homeowner exemption typically requires
Where it exists, the exemption is narrow. It commonly applies only to an owner-occupied primary residence, requires that the owner perform or directly supervise the work, and may prohibit selling or renting the property for a period afterward. Some authorities require the owner to sign an affidavit acknowledging responsibility, and some exclude certain trades entirely.
Why the permit holder's identity matters
The permit holder is accountable for code compliance, inspection scheduling, and closing out the permit. If a homeowner pulls a permit for a contractor's work, the homeowner absorbs that liability — and often loses recourse if the work fails inspection after the contractor is gone. A licensed contractor declining to pull the permit for their own work is a signal worth investigating.
Authorized agents
An agent applies on the owner's behalf, usually with a signed authorization letter naming the agent and the scope. The owner remains the responsible party. This is the ordinary arrangement when an architect, engineer, or expediter files a packet.
What to confirm before anyone applies
Ask the department which applicant types it accepts for your permit type, whether the contractor's license is registered locally, whether a notarized owner authorization is required, and who is expected to schedule and attend inspections.