Clark County Building Department manages building permits, plan reviews, inspections, and code enforcement for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The department supports Development Services by reviewing construction plans, issuing construction approvals, and confirming that every project follows local building regulations. Its work protects public safety, supports responsible property development, and helps builders complete projects that meet current structural, electrical, plumbing, and fire code requirements.
Clark County Building Department plays a central role in Building Safety through its Permit Center, inspection services, and construction oversight. Inspectors review each stage of a project, from foundation work to final occupancy approval, to confirm compliance with approved plans and county standards. This process helps reduce construction risks, promotes safe buildings, and supports long-term community growth by maintaining consistent building regulations across Clark County.
How to Apply for a Building Permit
Applying for a permit application through the Clark County Building Department starts with selecting the correct permit type and submitting the required project information. Most applications can be completed through the county’s Online Permit Portal, though in-person services remain available for many permit requests. Clark County uses the Citizen Access Portal for permit applications, payments, document uploads, and status tracking. Applicants can choose the method that best fits their project while following the county’s published permit requirements.
Official Clark County Building Department: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/building
Eligibility
A building permit may be requested by a property owner or a licensed contractor, depending on the project. Contractors must meet Nevada licensing requirements, while owner-builders may apply for eligible projects on property they own. Clark County requires applicants to create a Citizen Access Portal account before submitting or paying for permits online.
Applicants commonly need:
- Property address
- Parcel Number
- Applicant contact information
- Contractor license information (if applicable)
- Project description
Required Documents
The documents required depend on the type of construction. Complete permit documents help reviewers evaluate the project more efficiently and reduce requests for corrections.
Typical documents include:
- Completed permit application
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Structural calculations, when required
- Engineering reports
- Product specifications
- Energy compliance documents, if applicable
| Required Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Permit Application | Starts the review process |
| Site Plan | Shows property layout and setbacks |
| Construction Plans | Describes the proposed work |
| Engineering Documents | Supports structural or civil design |
| Parcel Number | Identifies the project location |
Online Application
Clark County encourages applicants to submit permits through its Digital Permit Portal, known as the Citizen Access Portal. After creating an account, applicants can select the permit type, upload project files, pay applicable fees, and monitor review progress from one account. The county’s online instructions direct users to select Building > Apply for Permits after logging in.
Applicants can complete tasks such as:
- Submit a permit application
- Upload plans and supporting documents
- Pay permit fees
- Respond to correction notices
- Track permit status
- Schedule inspections after permit issuance
Official Online Permit Portal: https://aca-prod.accela.com/CLARKCO/Login.aspx
In-Person Application
Applicants who need assistance can visit the Clark County Building Department during public business hours. Staff can answer questions about permit types, application forms, required documents, and project reviews.
Building Department
- Address: 4701 West Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118
- Phone: (702) 455-3000
- Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Friday–Sunday, Closed.
Permit Review Process
After submission, the county reviews each application for code compliance and project completeness. Depending on the project scope, reviewers may complete building, zoning, fire, site plan review, or engineering review before issuing approval.
The review process typically follows these steps:
- Submit the permit application.
- Upload all required permit documents.
- County staff review the plans.
- Applicants respond to correction requests, if needed.
- Permit fees are paid after approval.
- The permit is issued.
- Construction begins.
- Required inspections are completed.
- Final approval or certificate is issued, when applicable.
Services Offered by the Clark County Building Department
The Clark County Building Department provides a wide range of services that support safe construction, responsible land use, and compliant property development. These services help property owners, contractors, architects, and developers move projects from planning through final approval. Each service follows county requirements and local building codes. As a result, projects receive the reviews and inspections needed before construction begins, during work, and before occupancy.
Building Permits
Building permits are required for many residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The permit process confirms that proposed work meets local building codes, zoning standards, and safety requirements before construction starts.
Typical projects that often require building permits include:
- New home construction
- Home additions and remodels
- Commercial buildings
- Garages and accessory structures
- Structural repairs
- Tenant improvements
Construction Permits
Many projects require specialized construction permits beyond a standard building permit. These permits help verify that individual systems meet technical and safety standards.
Common construction permits include:
- Electrical permits
- Plumbing permits
- Mechanical permits
- HVAC installation permits
- Demolition permits
- Fire protection system permits
Planning Services
The county Planning Department supports long-term community growth through professional Planning Services. Staff review proposed projects to confirm that land use matches zoning rules, development standards, and adopted community plans.
Planning services often include:
- Zoning verification
- Land use applications
- Parcel and lot reviews
- Conditional use permits
- Variance requests
- Subdivision applications
Development Review
The Development Review process evaluates projects before construction approval. Multiple departments may review the same application to confirm compliance with county requirements.
A typical development review may include:
| Review Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Site Plan Review | Confirms building placement, parking, drainage, and site layout |
| Engineering Review | Reviews grading, utilities, roads, drainage, and public infrastructure |
| Land Development Review | Checks compliance with development standards and zoning requirements |
| Utility Coordination | Confirms utility connections and service availability |
Code Enforcement
Code Enforcement helps protect neighborhoods by addressing building code violations, unsafe structures, and work completed without required permits. Staff investigate reported concerns and work with property owners to resolve violations under county regulations.
Code enforcement activities commonly include:
- Unpermitted construction investigations
- Unsafe building inspections
- Property maintenance violations
- Stop-work orders for non-compliant projects
- Compliance follow-up inspections
Types of Building Permits Available
The Clark County Building Department issues different permit types based on the scope and purpose of a construction project. Selecting the correct permit helps projects meet local code requirements, complete inspections successfully, and move through the approval process with fewer delays. Permit requirements vary by project size, location, and construction type. Most applications require completed forms, project plans, and supporting permit documents before review begins.
Residential Building Permit
A Residential Permit is commonly required for new homes, home additions, garages, decks, accessory structures, and many remodeling projects. It confirms that residential construction complies with building codes, zoning standards, and safety requirements.
Projects that commonly require a residential permit include:
- New home construction
- Home additions
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Detached garages
- Covered patios
- Structural repairs
Commercial Building Permit
A Commercial Permit applies to projects involving offices, retail stores, warehouses, restaurants, schools, healthcare facilities, and other business properties. Commercial reviews often involve additional code checks for occupancy, accessibility, fire protection, and life safety.
Examples include:
- New commercial buildings
- Office renovations
- Retail build-outs
- Warehouse construction
- Restaurant improvements
- Mixed-use developments
Electrical Permit
An Electrical Permit covers electrical installations, upgrades, repairs, and equipment replacements. Licensed electricians often obtain this permit before beginning work.
Projects commonly include:
- New electrical service
- Panel replacements
- Circuit additions
- Generator installation
- EV charging stations
- Interior and exterior wiring
Plumbing Permit
A Plumbing Permit applies to plumbing systems installed, repaired, or modified during construction or renovation projects. This permit helps protect water quality and confirms proper drainage and venting.
Plumbing work includes:
- Water supply lines
- Drain and sewer piping
- Water heater installation
- Bathroom additions
- Kitchen plumbing
- Fixture replacements involving new piping
Mechanical Permit
A Mechanical Permit covers heating, cooling, ventilation, and related mechanical systems. These permits support safe equipment installation and proper indoor air circulation.
Typical projects include:
- HVAC system installation
- Furnace replacement
- Air conditioning units
- Heat pumps
- Ventilation systems
- Exhaust fans
Roofing Permit
A roofing permit may be required when replacing or installing a roof, especially if structural work is involved or local regulations require inspections. The review confirms that roofing materials and installation methods meet county standards.
Projects often include:
- Full roof replacement
- Structural roof repairs
- Roof framing modifications
- Commercial roofing systems
Demolition Permit
A Demolition Permit is required before removing a building or major structure. County staff review demolition plans to confirm utility disconnections, public safety measures, and proper debris management before work begins.
Applications may require:
- Demolition plans
- Utility disconnect confirmations
- Site safety information
- Environmental documentation when applicable
Remodeling Permit
A remodeling permit covers many interior and exterior renovation projects that change structural elements or building systems. Whether updating a residence or completing a tenant improvement project in a commercial space, permits help confirm that completed work meets current code requirements.
Projects commonly requiring a remodeling permit include:
- Kitchen renovations
- Bathroom remodels
- Room additions
- Wall removal
- Structural modifications
- Commercial tenant improvements
Building Permit Review and Approval Process
The building permit review process checks construction plans for compliance with county codes before work begins. Each application may pass through several technical reviews, helping the county issue building approval for projects that meet safety and development standards.
The number of review stages depends on the project type, size, and complexity. Residential projects often move through fewer reviews than large commercial or mixed-use developments.
Plan Review
The Plan Review stage is the first technical review after a permit application is submitted. County reviewers examine construction drawings and supporting documents to confirm that the proposed work complies with adopted building codes, zoning regulations, and local ordinances.
During plan review, staff typically verify:
- Building dimensions and layout
- Occupancy classification
- Structural design
- Accessibility requirements
- Energy code compliance
- Site information and setbacks
Engineering Review
The Engineering Review focuses on site infrastructure and technical design. This review helps confirm that construction supports safe development and protects surrounding properties.
Engineering staff commonly evaluate:
- Grading and drainage
- Stormwater management
- Utility connections
- Road and driveway access
- Retaining walls
- Public infrastructure improvements
Fire Review
The Fire Review verifies that proposed construction meets applicable fire and life safety requirements. Depending on the project, fire officials review plans for emergency access, fire protection systems, and occupant safety.
Items commonly reviewed include:
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Fire alarm systems
- Fire department access
- Emergency exits
- Fire-resistant construction materials
- Occupant load and evacuation routes
Final Approval
After all review departments approve the plans and any correction comments are resolved, the county issues building approval. The applicant can then pay any remaining permit fees and receive the building permit.
The approval process generally follows these steps:
| Review Stage | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Plan Review | Confirms compliance with building codes and permit requirements |
| Structural Review | Verifies structural safety and design calculations |
| Engineering Review | Examines grading, utilities, drainage, and infrastructure |
| Fire Review | Confirms fire and life safety compliance |
| Final Building Approval | Authorizes permit issuance and construction to begin |
Building Inspections
A building inspection confirms that construction follows approved plans and complies with applicable building codes at every major stage of the project. Inspections help identify issues early, improve construction quality, and support safe occupancy after work is complete. Most projects require multiple inspections rather than a single visit. Contractors or property owners must request inspections at the appropriate construction stages before work continues.
Inspection Scheduling
Clark County allows applicants to submit an inspection request after a permit has been issued and the work is ready for review. Requests can typically be made through the county’s online permit system or by using the inspection scheduling options provided by the Building Department.
Before requesting an inspection, applicants should:
- Confirm the permit is active.
- Complete the work for the inspection stage.
- Keep approved plans available at the job site.
- Provide safe access for the inspector.
- Post the permit where required.
Required Inspection Stages
Most construction projects move through several inspection stages. The required inspections depend on the type of permit and the scope of work.
Inspection stages include:
| Inspection Stage | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Foundation Inspection | Verifies footing size, reinforcement, and foundation preparation before concrete placement. |
| Framing Inspection | Checks structural framing, beams, walls, floors, and roof framing. |
| Electrical Inspection | Reviews wiring, service panels, outlets, and electrical installations. |
| Plumbing Inspection | Confirms water supply, drain, waste, and vent systems meet code requirements. |
| Mechanical Inspection | Reviews HVAC equipment, ventilation systems, and mechanical installations. |
| Insulation Inspection | Verifies insulation installation before interior wall finishes. |
| Final Inspection | Confirms the completed project complies with approved plans and building codes. |
Building Codes and Construction Standards
Building codes establish the minimum safety and construction standards for residential, commercial, and industrial projects in Clark County. These standards help protect occupants, improve structural safety, and support consistent construction practices across the county. Construction plans must satisfy local regulations before a permit is approved. During plan review and inspections, county staff verify code compliance with the building codes and standards adopted by the jurisdiction.
Local Codes
Clark County applies local ordinances together with adopted model codes to regulate construction and property development. These local requirements address topics such as structural design, fire safety, electrical systems, plumbing, mechanical equipment, grading, and zoning.
Local code reviews commonly evaluate:
- Building location and setbacks
- Structural safety
- Fire protection measures
- Drainage and site development
- Occupancy classification
- Permit requirements
International Building Code (IBC)
The International Building Code (IBC) serves as the primary standard for most commercial buildings and many larger construction projects. It contains requirements for structural integrity, fire resistance, means of egress, occupancy classifications, and life safety.
The IBC supports safe construction by providing standards for:
- Structural design
- Fire-resistant construction
- Occupant safety
- Emergency exits
- Building materials
- Construction methods
Residential Code (IRC)
The International Residential Code (IRC) applies to many one- and two-family homes, townhouses, and related residential structures. The IRC establishes construction standards that support safe and durable housing.
The residential code addresses:
- Foundations
- Framing
- Roofing
- Stairways
- Plumbing systems
- Mechanical systems
- Electrical installations
- Energy efficiency requirements
Accessibility Standards
Accessibility standards help make buildings usable for people with disabilities. Commercial buildings and many public facilities must include accessible features that satisfy applicable accessibility requirements and adopted codes.
Accessibility reviews may include:
- Accessible parking spaces
- Building entrances
- Interior travel paths
- Door widths and hardware
- Accessible restrooms
- Elevators and ramps where required
Permit Fees and Processing Time
Permit fees vary based on the project value, permit type, and the reviews required before approval. Clark County calculates many building permit fees using the project’s construction cost (valuation) rather than charging a single flat fee. Simple residential projects usually have lower costs than large commercial developments. Projects requiring multiple technical reviews or special inspections may include extra review charges.
Fee Factors
The final permit cost depends on several factors, including:
- Project construction cost
- Residential or commercial project type
- Building size and scope
- Number of required inspections
- Plan review requirements
- Fire and engineering reviews
- Permit revisions or resubmittals
Under the Clark County Building Administrative Code, building permit fees are based on the declared valuation of the project. For example:
| Project Valuation | Building Permit Fee* |
|---|---|
| $1–$500 | $60.00 |
| $501–$2,000 | $60.00 plus $1.87 for each additional $100 |
| $2,001–$25,000 | $88.10 plus $8.19 for each additional $1,000 |
| $25,001–$50,000 | $276.47 plus $5.25 for each additional $1,000 |
| $50,001–$100,000 | $407.72 plus $3.78 for each additional $1,000 |
| Over $100,000 | $596.72 plus $3.26 for each additional $1,000 |
Permit Processing
The permit processing time depends on the project complexity, application completeness, and current review workload. Simple permits may move through the review process more quickly, while commercial buildings or major developments often require reviews by building, zoning, engineering, and fire departments.
Submitting complete plans and accurate documents helps reduce review time and minimizes correction requests.
Additional Review Fees
Some projects require services beyond the standard building permit review. Extra fees may apply for:
- Plan review revisions
- Engineering review
- Fire review
- Special inspections
- Re-inspections after failed inspections
- Expedited review services, where available
Applicants can review the current fee schedules and administrative code on the official Clark County Building Department website:
Building Department: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/building
Permit Status, Renewal and Expiration
Applicants can monitor their permit status online after submitting an application. Clark County’s Citizen Access Portal allows users to check review progress, inspection history, permit activity, and approval status from a single account. Keeping track of permit status helps applicants respond to correction notices and schedule inspections without unnecessary delays.
Permit Lookup
The county provides an online permit lookup feature through the Citizen Access Portal.
Applicants can:
- Check permit status
- View review comments
- Monitor inspection results
- Review issued permits
- Schedule inspections
- View permit history
Permit Lookup: https://aca-prod.accela.com/CLARKCO
Renewal
Some permits remain valid only if work continues within the required time period. If construction stops or a permit approaches expiration, a permit renewal may be available. Renewal requirements vary based on the permit type and project status. Applicants should contact the Building Department before a permit expires to determine available renewal options.
Expiration
A permit expiration may occur if construction does not begin within the required period or if work remains inactive for an extended time. Once expired, additional fees, permit renewal, or a new application may be required before construction can continue. Checking permit activity regularly through the online portal helps property owners and contractors avoid unexpected permit expiration.
Reasons Building Permits Are Delayed
Most permit delays result from incomplete applications or construction plans that require revisions. Careful preparation before submission helps reviewers process permits more efficiently. Early communication with the Building Department can reduce correction cycles and keep projects moving.
Causes of Delays
Missing Documents
Applications often pause when required documents are not included.
Examples include:
- Missing site plans
- Incomplete construction drawings
- Missing engineering reports
- Incomplete application forms
- Missing contractor information
Incorrect Plans
Plans that do not meet county standards usually require plan corrections before approval.
Issues include:
- Incorrect dimensions
- Missing structural details
- Zoning conflicts
- Incomplete floor plans
- Inconsistent drawings
Inspection Failures
Projects may experience delays when required inspections are not approved.
Typical reasons include:
- Work completed differently from approved plans
- Incomplete construction
- Safety deficiencies
- Systems not ready for inspection
- Missing approved permit documents
Code Violations
Projects that fail code compliance reviews often require revisions before work can continue.
construction errors include:
- Unpermitted structural changes
- Electrical installations that do not meet code
- Plumbing violations
- Fire safety deficiencies
- Improper building materials
- Work performed without required inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions cover common topics about the Clark County Building Department, including permits, inspections, required documents, and permit tracking. These answers help property owners, contractors, and developers prepare for the building permit process and avoid common application issues.
What does the Clark County Building Department do?
The Clark County Building Department administers building codes, reviews construction plans, issues permits, performs inspections, and enforces local building regulations. Its primary role is to confirm that residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects comply with adopted building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire safety codes.
How do I apply for a building permit?
Applicants can submit a permit application through Clark County’s online Citizen Access Portal or visit the Building Department for assistance with eligible projects.
The basic application process includes:
- Create an online account.
- Select the appropriate permit type.
- Complete the application.
- Upload required plans and supporting documents.
- Pay applicable review or permit fees.
- Respond to correction notices if revisions are requested.
- Receive permit approval.
- Schedule inspections during construction.
How long does permit approval take?
Permit approval times vary according to the project scope, application quality, and current review workload. Smaller residential projects often require fewer technical reviews than commercial developments or large construction projects.
Several factors influence the review timeline, including:
- Project complexity
- Construction valuation
- Completeness of submitted plans
- Engineering review requirements
- Fire department review
- Number of correction cycles
When is a building inspection required?
A building inspection is required at specific stages of construction after a permit has been issued. Inspections confirm that completed work follows approved plans and complies with applicable building codes before construction continues.
Depending on the project, inspections may include:
- Foundation inspection
- Framing inspection
- Electrical inspection
- Plumbing inspection
- Mechanical inspection
- Insulation inspection
- Final inspection
What documents are needed for a permit?
The required documents depend on the type of construction and the scope of work. Residential projects may require fewer documents than large commercial developments.
Common permit documents include:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Completed permit application | Starts the permit review process |
| Site plan | Shows the location of the proposed work on the property |
| Construction drawings | Describes the building design and layout |
| Structural calculations | Supports structural design when required |
| Engineering reports | Provides technical information for complex projects |
| Product specifications | Identifies construction materials and equipment |
| Parcel number | Identifies the project location |
How can I check my permit status?
Clark County allows applicants to check permit status through the online Citizen Access Portal. The portal provides current information throughout the review and inspection process.
Applicants can use the portal to:
- View application progress
- Check review comments
- Monitor inspection results
- Review issued permits
- Schedule inspections
- View permit history
- Confirm final approval