Every jurisdiction has its own submission checklist, but residential permit sets share a common backbone. Missing a sheet, or submitting sheets that disagree with each other, is the fastest way to earn a correction letter and lose weeks. Here is what a complete set usually contains.
Cover sheet and project data
The cover sheet introduces the project to the reviewer. It typically lists:
- The property address, parcel number and owner
- A plain-language scope of work, such as a new single-family residence or an addition and remodel
- Applicable codes and editions, often the International Residential Code plus local amendments
- Occupancy, construction type, number of stories and whether fire sprinklers are required
- Floor areas by level, garage and covered areas, and lot coverage
- A sheet index and the designer's contact details
Site plan
The site plan shows the building on its lot with property lines, setbacks, easements, driveways, existing and proposed structures, and utility connections. Many jurisdictions also want drainage arrows, finished floor elevations and tree protection. The setback and lot-coverage numbers on this sheet are some of the first things a zoning reviewer checks.
Foundation and floor plans
The foundation plan shows footings, stem walls or slab edges, hold-downs, anchor bolts and any piers. Floor plans show every level with dimensions, room names, door and window locations, stairs, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarm locations. For remodels, the plans must clearly separate existing walls, walls to be removed and new work.
Roof plan, elevations and sections
The roof plan shows slopes, ridges, valleys, drainage and roofing material. Exterior elevations show each face of the building with heights, materials and window placement, and they are what planning staff use to check height limits. Building sections cut through the structure to show floor-to-floor heights, insulation, the roof assembly and how the building meets the ground.
Details and schedules
Wall sections and construction details explain how things are built: the wall assembly, flashing, stair and guard details, and the fire separation between an attached garage and the house. Door and window schedules list sizes, types and, where required, egress and safety-glazing information.
Structural drawings
Depending on the scope and location, the set may include framing plans, shear wall and hold-down layouts, beam and header sizes, and structural calculations stamped by an engineer. Areas with high seismic or wind requirements tend to ask for more here.
Energy compliance and supporting documents
Most jurisdictions require proof that the house meets the energy code, for example Title 24 documentation in California or a REScheck report in many other states. Depending on the project you may also need mechanical, electrical and plumbing plans, a soils report or a boundary survey.
Tip: Before submitting, check that the same window appears at the same size on the floor plan, the elevation and the schedule. Inconsistent sheets are one of the most common plan-check comments.
Coordination is what gets it approved
A permit set is reviewed as a whole. The reviewer expects the site plan, floor plans, elevations and details to tell the same story. Our Glen Falls Residence set is an example of a full 17-sheet residential submission prepared for plan check. For the most common reasons sets get sent back, see why plan check rejects permit sets.
