Property Research Essentials: How to Find Building Permit Records

Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 27 August, 2025.

While some may view building permits as a regulatory burden that complicates building or renovation, they nevertheless remain an integral step of the process. That’s because permits ensure that work is done according to a code that’s designed for the safety and security of residents and occupants.   

Permits also serve as an important point of reference in research as they can tell the story of a property’s history of construction, renovation or other types of alteration. 

How to Find Building Permit Records 

Permits are granted by a regulatory body and are a part of the public record. Consequently, there are many ways to determine which permits were given, based on how they were issued and archived.   

In fact, depending on the location, finding building permit records can be relatively easy through entities such as:   

• borough offices  
• building departments  
• city planning offices  
• zoning and code enforcement offices 

In NYC, permits are approved by the Department of Buildings (DOB), which ensures the safe and lawful use of structures and construction sites across the city.

Step 1: Identify the Jurisdiction

Identify the city, township or village where the property you are interested in is located. Once you know where to look, you’re closer to how to find building permit records for the property. 

Step 2: Check How to Find Building Permit Records Online

Next, check if there’s an official website where you could search for information online. Keep in mind that not all jurisdictions have a digital presence or a comprehensive digital record of permits. If not, the next best option is to call to inquire about researching permits in person.   

Step 3: Use a Third-Party Database to Access Permit Records Across Jurisdictions

If you’re researching properties in multiple cities or states, relying solely on local government portals may not be practical. In such cases, a third-party platform like PropertyShark offers a centralized way to access permit records, ownership information, and related data from a wide range of jurisdictions. 

How to Search for Permits 

1. Enter the Property Information: Begin by typing the property’s street address or parcel ID into the search bar. Click “Search” to view the property’s full report. 
2. Open the Permits Tab: Once the property report loads, navigate to the “Permits” tab. If building permit data is publicly available for that property, it will appear here. 

3. Review Permit Details: The permit section typically includes: 

• Type of permit issued (e.g., electrical, plumbing, general construction) 

• Description of the work being performed 

• Current status of the permit (e.g., issued, expired, closed) 

4. Check for Related Data: Depending on the location and data availability, you may also find: 

• Inspection history 

• Code violations 

• Risk or safety-related notes 

This broader context can provide a more complete understanding of a property’s renovation history or compliance issues. 

We’ve already touched on how to find out if a building permit was obtained, but let’s get a better understanding of what kind of permits there are to find. 

Building Permit Records by Type of Project 

Typically, these depend on whether the property in question is meant for residential or commercial use. They also represent primary types in permit classification.  

• Residential Project Permits   

This building permit type can refer to building a new home from the ground up; making additions or renovations that expand an existing structure or change its layout; or adding separate living spaces, like a cottage in the backyard or an accessory in-law suite.   

• Commercial Project Permits   

This permit type applies to work planned on commercial spaces, like office, retail and dining. These projects usually imply more complex work and must adhere to stricter codes compared to residential projects.   

Building Permit Records by Type of Work 

These are often secondary in permit classification. Depending on the type and scope of the project, it could require multiple overlapping permits by type of work. As a rule of thumb, any work that affects the ventilation, electrical and/or exits will require permits to proceed.   

For example, remodeling a kitchen might require separate permits for structural changes (like removing or adding a wall); plumbing updates (such as modifying structural supports or rerouting pipes); electrical updates (including relocating outlets or upgrading wiring); any HVAC changes and so on.   

Example of Building Permit Type 

In NYC, there are four primary permit types that can be obtained — new building (NB) and alterations (ALT) type 1, 2 and 3:  

• NB refers to the construction of a new structure.  

• ALT1 refers to major alterations that change the use, egress or occupancy of an existing structure.  

• ALT2 refers to multiple types of work that don’t affect use, egress or occupancy.  

• ALT3 refers to one type of minor work that doesn’t affect use, egress or occupancy.  

If you’re looking to invest in a property, it’s always a good idea to do your research, and building permit records are an essential element of that due diligence. Fortunately, property data resources such as PropertyShark make finding building permits easier to help you make the smartest real estate investment decisions.  

FAQs About Building Permits 

What Is a Building Permit? 

A building permit is an official approval issued by a local government agency that allows construction, alteration, demolition, or repair work on a property to begin. It ensures the project complies with local codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. 

In most cities, including NYC, permits are required for any work that affects a building’s structure, systems, or use. Common examples include major renovations, adding new rooms, or installing plumbing or electrical systems. Permits help protect occupants, workers, and future owners by confirming the work meets legal and safety requirements. 

What Types of Building Permits Are There? 

The most common types of permits are general construction, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, demolition, and sign permits. 

Each permit type covers a specific category of work. For example, an electrical permit is required for installing or upgrading wiring, while a demolition permit is necessary when tearing down part or all of a structure. In some jurisdictions, smaller jobs may fall under “minor alteration” or “over-the-counter” permits, which are faster to process but still require approval. 

What Building Permit Types Are There in NYC? 

In NYC, the Department of Buildings (DOB) issues permits for a wide range of construction and maintenance activities. The primary permit types include General Construction (GC), Plumbing (PL), Electrical (E), Foundation (FO), Mechanical (MH), and Fire Suppression (FS) permits. 

These permit types are assigned based on the nature of the proposed work. For example, a GC permit covers most structural and renovation projects, while a separate Plumbing (PL) permit is needed for water or gas line work. The DOB also issues “NB” (New Building) permits for entirely new structures and “A1,” “A2,” or “A3” alteration permits depending on the scope of interior work. 

How Much Do Building Permits Usually Cost? 

Building permit costs vary based on project size, location, and type, but generally range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. In NYC, permit fees are often calculated as a percentage of the total job cost. 

Rates can differ by permit type and additional fees may apply for plan review, inspections, or expedited processing. Always consult your local building department or project expeditor to get accurate fee estimates. 

Do Permits Increase Property Value? 

Permits themselves don’t directly raise property value, but they allow work to be done legally and safely—which can improve value over time. Completed and properly permitted renovations are more attractive to buyers and appraisers. 

Unpermitted work, on the other hand, may reduce a home’s value or delay a sale, as buyers may worry about compliance and future liabilities. In short, permits are essential for ensuring your investment is recognized as legitimate and code-compliant during valuation.