When you’re planning a remodel, the last thing you want is to be hit with a stop-work order or a hefty fine. Yet many homeowners jump into remodeling projects without fully understanding the permitting process, or the risks of skipping it altogether.
It’s important to us at JMG Contracting, we make sure your project doesn’t just look great—it’s fully compliant, from the ground up. Let’s break it down so you know what you need when it comes to Arizona building permits and how to keep your home remodel on the right track.
Do Permits Matter in a Home Remodel?
Building permits exist to protect homeowners. They ensure that structural, electrical, plumbing, and other major changes are done safely and up to code. While smaller cosmetic updates (like paint or flooring) usually don’t require permits, anything involving demolition, additions, or system upgrades almost always does.
Skipping the permit process might seem like a way to save time or money—but it can cost you far more in the long run. Projects done without permits can:
- Delay future home sales or refinances
- Lead to fines, stop-work orders, or forced tear-downs
- Void homeowner’s insurance coverage if something goes wrong
- Require you to reopen finished walls or redo completed work to pass inspection
What Does the Permitting Process Involve?
Every city and county in Arizona has its own permitting guidelines, but the general steps look like this:
- Plan review – You or your contractor submit detailed plans to the city.
- Application – Permit applications are submitted with project scope, timelines, and contractor info.
- Approval – The city reviews for zoning, building code, and safety compliance.
- Inspections – Throughout the project, inspectors visit to ensure compliance at key phases.
- Final sign-off – Once complete, the city provides a final inspection and approval.
It’s a process—but a necessary one. A reputable contractor like JMG Contracting handles these steps for you so there are no surprises.
Common Projects That Require Permits
You’ll likely need a permit for:
- Kitchen and bathroom remodels involving layout changes
- Room additions or converting garages into living space
- Major electrical or plumbing updates
- Structural changes like removing walls or raising ceilings
- HVAC installation or replacement
Even if your project seems straightforward, it’s always best to verify permit requirements with your local municipality—or better yet, let us take care of it.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Permits
We get it—some homeowners think they can save time by pulling permits themselves. But without experience, it’s easy to miss important details or misrepresent the scope of work, which can result in permit denials or code violations.
When JMG Contracting manages your project, we handle all the logistics, paperwork, and inspections for you. We also stay in direct communication with city officials and inspectors to keep your remodel moving forward—without the red tape headache.
Arizona Permitting Tips
- Check early – Don’t wait until demo day to think about permits.
- Know your city’s rules – Permit rules can vary between Scottsdale, Phoenix, and smaller towns.
- Stay organized – Keep records of all permits, plans, and inspection reports.
- Choose a contractor who knows the system – A seasoned remodeler will know which permits are needed and how to navigate the process quickly.
The Bottom Line
Permits aren’t a nuisance—they’re protection. And when you partner with a contractor who knows how to manage the process, they become just another step toward a successful, stress-free remodel.
At JMG, we take care of permitting so you don’t have to. From planning to final inspection, we keep your project compliant, on schedule, and beautifully built. Contact us today to get started!
