You risk fines, stop-work orders, required demolition or rework, and trouble selling or refinancing. Insurance and lenders may also deny coverage or financing.

Common examples: basement finishing, adding a bathroom or kitchen, structural modifications, deck construction/expansion, change of use (garage conversion, ADU), and new construction.

Yes. Cities review permit drawings to confirm compliance with codes, zoning, and safety. They show layouts, dimensions, space use, basic structural info, and required notes.

They are technical drawings prepared for city approval, proving code and zoning compliance. They are legal/technical documents, not decorative plans.

Remodeling modifies an existing structure. An ADU adds an independent or semi-independent residential unit. New construction builds from the ground up. Each requires different documentation and approvals.

A secondary residential unit on the same lot as the primary home—by converting a garage/basement, extending the main house, or building a detached backyard unit.

Yes. ADUs always need zoning review, permits, and technical drawings because they change use, add a dwelling unit, and affect parking, safety, and infrastructure.

Depends on scope and city rules. Simple remodels may use an experienced drafter. Structural changes, ADUs, or new construction usually need a licensed structural engineer and sometimes an architect. The city decides who must sign/stamp.

Typical checks: zoning bylaws, building code, structural safety, egress, lighting/ventilation, ceiling heights, proper use of spaces, accessibility (when required), and neighborhood impacts (setbacks, height, lot coverage, FAR, parking).

Rough ranges: simple remodels 2–6 weeks; basement finishes or decks 4–8 weeks; ADUs/complex projects 2–6 months (longer with board reviews); new construction several months. Good drawings reduce time.

Not recommended. Most cities require a minimum complete set. Incomplete submissions lead to rejections, delays, and extra costs.

It is normal. The city may ask for layout tweaks, added technical data, code corrections, or more notes/details. You respond with revised drawings.

Simple: 1–2; medium: 2–3; ADUs/new construction: multiple rounds. Strong initial submissions minimize revisions.

No. Permits authorize work, but inspections verify it. Work that does not match approved plans can require corrections.

Yes, but major changes need revised drawings, resubmittal, and sometimes an amended permit. Unapproved changes can fail inspections.

Not always. Permit drawings target legal approval and code compliance; construction drawings carry more execution detail. Larger jobs may use both.

Varies by city. Often the licensed contractor pulls it; sometimes the owner may apply and assume responsibility. Local rules govern.

Some cities allow it, others restrict it. As owner-builder you assume full responsibility for the project, inspections, and compliance. It is not always the best choice.

Usually yes. Legalizing avoids issues with sale, refinancing, insurance, and retroactive fines. You may need as-built drawings and extra inspections.

Because poorly planned projects can be denied, need hearings, cost more, and create rework. Knowing zoning, codes, and the permit path before building saves time and money.