Homeowner Code & Permit Guides

Plain-language guides to the zoning and building code questions homeowners face most. Select a topic guide below, or search for your city to jump straight to your local rules.

• Fence Regulations by State: Complete Homeowner Guide Fence height limits, permit requirements, and property line rules for every state. Find out what's allowed in your yard before you build.
• How to Get a Building Permit: Step-by-Step Guide Learn exactly how to apply for a building permit — what documents you need, how long it takes, what it costs, and what happens if you skip it.
• ADU Rules by State: Accessory Dwelling Unit Guide ADU regulations, size limits, setbacks, and permit requirements explained. Includes California's landmark ADU reform and how other states compare.
• Setback Requirements Explained: What Homeowners Need to Know Setback requirements determine how close you can build to your property lines. Learn how setbacks work, typical distances, and how to get a variance.
• Shed Permit Requirements: Do You Need a Permit? Find out when a shed requires a building permit, what size thresholds trigger permits, setback requirements, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
• Pool Regulations by State: Permits, Fencing, and Safety Rules Swimming pool permit requirements, safety fencing laws, setback rules, and inspection requirements for homeowners. What you need before you dig.
• Solar Panel Permit Requirements by State Solar installation permits, roof setbacks, HOA rights, and utility interconnection requirements. What every homeowner needs to know before going solar.
• Short-Term Rental Regulations: Airbnb Rules by City Short-term rental permit requirements, owner-occupancy rules, registration fees, night limits, and which cities ban Airbnb entirely.
• Zoning Laws 101: A Complete Beginner's Guide for Homeowners What zoning is, how it works, types of zoning districts, how to find your property's zoning, and what to do if zoning doesn't work for your project.
• What Doesn't Need a Building Permit? Common Exemptions Explained Most common building permit exemptions: painting, flooring, minor repairs, and cosmetic work. Plus what surprises homeowners by requiring permits.
• Accessory Structure Rules: Garages, Sheds, and Workshops Zoning rules for detached garages, sheds, workshops, and other accessory structures. Setbacks, height limits, size restrictions, and permit requirements.