Las Vegas Building Permit Guide

Pulling a building permit in Las Vegas, Nevada might sound like a hassle — but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a contractor, builder, or developer, permits are your ticket to staying compliant. The good news? Once you understand the basics, the whole process gets a lot easier. 

This guide breaks it all down so you can move forward with confidence — and keep your project on schedule.

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What requires a building permit in Las Vegas?

A construction permit in Las Vegas is generally required for the following:

• Structural changes: Adding or removing walls, constructing new rooms, or altering load-bearing walls
• Additions: Adding a new room, garage, carport, or shed over 200 square feet
• Conversions: Transforming attics, basements, or garages into habitable spaces
• Openings: Installing new windows or doors, or resizing existing ones
• Roofing: Replacing all roofing material or installing tile roofing over existing materials
• Decks and patios: Constructing decks over 30 inches above grade or enclosing existing patios
• Retaining walls and fences: Building retaining walls or block walls over 2 feet high
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work: Installing or modifying HVAC systems, electrical wiring, or plumbing systems

Note: This list is not exhaustive. Always consult the Las Vegas Building Department for specific project requirements.

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Projects that may not require a permit

Some minor projects might be exempt from permitting:

• Non-structural repairs: Painting, wallpapering, or similar finish work
• Small sheds: Detached accessory buildings under 200 square feet
• Minor plumbing repairs: Fixing leaks without replacing pipes
• Emergency repairs: Major roof leaks, certain plumbing problems, and similar emergencies may not require a permit immediately (though you’ll probably have to obtain one after the fact).

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Las Vegas building permit fees

Building permit fees in Las Vegas are usually calculated based on the project's scope and square footage. Here's a breakdown of costs for common types of permits:

Pro tip: For precise calculations, use the City of Las Vegas Permit Fee Estimator.

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Additional fees:

• Residential construction tax (Park fees): 1% of construction valuation or $1,000 per dwelling unit
• Clark County transportation tax: $1,000 per single-family dwelling unit
• Traffic impact fees: $195 per single-family dwelling unit
• Desert conservation program: $550 per acre or portion thereof, plus a $58 administration fee
• Sewer connection charges: Based on an equivalent residential unit (ERU) of $2,979 (Effective Jan 1, 2025)

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Commercial projects

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Additional fees:

• Clark County transportation tax: $1.00 per square foot of the entire building area
• Desert conservation program: $550 per acre or portion thereof, plus a $58 administration fee
• Sewer connection charges: Based on project specifics; Consult the city of Las Vegas building and safety department for details

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Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical projects

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How long do building permits last in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas permits are valid for 180 days from the date of issuance. If work doesn’t begin within this period, the permit may expire. You can request an extension by contacting the Las Vegas Building Department by email (BuildingInfo@LasVegasNevada.gov) or by calling 702-229-6251.

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Las Vegas building permit application process

Step 1: Determine permit requirements

Before you start any construction work, check whether your project requires a permit. Not every job does — but most structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work will. 

While you're at it, use the city’s Permit Fee Estimator to get an early estimate of what your permit(s) might cost.

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Step 2: Prepare necessary documentation

Once you've confirmed you need a permit, prepare the necessary documents. 

Depending on your project, you may need:

• A completed permit application
• A site plan
• Architectural and construction drawings
• Energy code compliance documents
• Structural engineering calculations or Southern Nevada Building Officials (SNBO) standard details
• A geotechnical or soils report

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Step 3: Submit application online

Head to the Online Building Permits portal to upload your application and plans. If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to create one first.

‍PermitFlow pro tip: Name your files using the city’s preferred naming convention! This is a small step that could slow down review if you overlook it.

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Step 4: Plan review and approval

Once submitted, your application will go through plan review. Multiple city departments will evaluate your plans to ensure they meet building codes and local ordinances. You can monitor your application’s progress via the Permit & Application Status page.

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Step 5: Permit issuance

After your plans are approved, you'll receive a notification to pay any outstanding fees. Once payment is complete, the city will issue your permit, and you’re cleared to begin construction.

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Step 6: Inspections

Throughout the project, you’ll need to schedule inspections at key milestones — such as after framing, electrical rough-ins, or final finishes. These ensure your work matches the approved plans and complies with city codes.

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How long does it take to get a permit in Las Vegas?

The timeline for getting a building permit in Las Vegas depends on the type and scope of your project. Simple permits — like water heater replacements, HVAC swaps, or minor electrical work—can often be approved within a day or two.

For larger projects that require plan review (like new construction, additions, or major remodels), the process typically takes 10 to 15 business days from the time your application is accepted. However, that timeline can stretch longer if your plans are incomplete, require corrections, or involve multiple city departments (like Planning, Fire, or Public Works).

Pro tip: Reduce permitting timelines by investing in permit management software like PermitFlow. PermitFlow handles the permit preparation, submission, and tracking nationwide, across all municipalities you’re building in.

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Las Vegas Building & Safety resources

For assistance and more information, please refer to the following resources:

• Address: 495 S. Main St., Las Vegas, NV 89101
• Phone: (702) 229-6251
• Express plan review scheduling: techs@lasvegasnevada.gov
• Website: Building & Safety Department
• Residential building permit application (PDF): Residential application form
• Commercial building permit application (PDF): Commercial application form
• Schedule, reschedule, or cancel inspections: Schedule inspections
• Las Vegas building permit search: Search page

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Streamline Las Vegas Permitting with PermitFlow

Navigating building permits in Las Vegas can be time-consuming, especially if you're juggling multiple projects or have recently expanded your business to the city. That’s where PermitFlow comes in. 

We take the guesswork (and the busywork) out of permitting so you can focus on building, not bureaucracy.

Builders, developers, contractors, and other construction businesses choose PermitFlow for:

• Local expertise, built-in
  
  • Our team knows exactly what Las Vegas inspectors look for, so your applications are accurate, complete, and less likely to get kicked back.
• One dashboard, zero chaos
  
  • Track all your permits, documents, and updates in a single, easy-to-use platform.
• Fewer delays, faster approvals
  
  • We streamline every step of the permitting process, helping you avoid costly rework and get to construction sooner.

Don't let permitting delay your project. Contact us to learn how we can help with your next project in Las Vegas.