Washington, DC Permit Requirements: Renovation Permits (2026)

Washington DC's Department of Buildings (DOB) requires building permits for most home renovation projects. DC is among the stricter jurisdictions for construction permitting. Work requiring permits includes: structural modifications (wall removal/addition, roof changes), electrical work (new circuits, panel upgrades), plumbing changes (adding or moving fixtures), HVAC installation or replacement, window or door replacements that change opening sizes, additions, basement conversions, kitchen and bathroom remodels involving structural/plumbing/electrical changes, and re-roofing. Work generally exempt from permits includes: painting, wallpapering, replacing existing fixtures with identical ones, flooring installation, and minor landscaping. DC enforces the DC Construction Codes (based on International Building Code with local amendments). Work in DC's numerous historic districts requires additional review and approval from the Historic Preservation Office (HPO). This applies to exterior changes and sometimes interior changes in landmark buildings. Licensed contractors are required for most trade work. DC offers the Homeowner Center at DOB for guidance on permit requirements. Permit applications can be filed online. Plan review times vary from a few days for simple projects to several weeks for complex renovations.