Property owners in Dearborn (or their certified contractor) must apply for a permit before work begins on any project requiring a permit, such as building a garage, deck or shed; erecting a fence or pool; or installing a new furnace or hot water heater

The forms on this site are available for download in PDF, which requires Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat, it's free to download and install.

Are you doing your own work or has your contractor asked you to obtain a permit?

If so, you should be aware of the following:

• If you have a contractor, he/she may be attempting to absolve him/herself from liability and responsibility for the quality and workmanship of the work performed.
• Your contractor may not be licensed.
• It is not cheaper for a homeowner to obtain a permit.
• The time frame for processing permit applications is the same for homeowners and contractors.
• You will be held to the same standards and same inspection schedule as a contractor.
• The City of Dearborn will not be able to help you resolve any disputes or problems you have with your contractor or with the work he/she performs.
• You will be responsible for correcting any deficiencies in the work performed.

Customer Survey - Permitting

The City of Dearborn is seeking your input! We are conducting customer feedback surveys to ensure we are meeting the need of all our residents. Take a look at the survey below about Permits and Inspections and let us know what you think. 

Click here for Survey about Permits & Inspections for Building Adddition and New Buildings

Temporary Event Sign Permits Now Available Online!

As of Feb. 2020, you can complete the form below and pay online for a Temporary Event Sign!

Click here to apply for a Temporary Event Sign

Any sign not permanently attached and intended to be displayed for a limited period of time is considered a temporary event sign. A permit is required for temporary event signs for non-residential uses, including seasonal sales, grand opening announcements, elections and other events typically occurring in non-residential zoning districts.

The following restrictions apply to Temporary Event Signs:

- Number of signs allowed: 4

- Total area for all signs allowed: 48 sq. ft. (96 sq. ft. if road frontage exceeds 400 linear feet)

- Total sign area per face: 24 sq. ft. (total sign area cannot exceed 48 sq. ft.)

- Height of sign allowed: 6 feet maximum

- Signs shall not be located in public rights-of-way

- Signs shall be set back at least three feet from property lines

- Signs shall be securely attached to the structure or securely anchored/weighted to the ground

- Signs shall not be illuminated

- Signs are permitted for no more than 60 consecutive days and shall be taken down no later than 5 days after the event

The cost for a Temporary Event Sign is $40

To submit an application online, go to Temporary Event Sign Permits.