Permits & Applications

The Town of Jackson requires various permits and licenses to ensure that construction, development, and business activities comply with building codes, zoning regulations, and municipal ordinances. Our permitting processes protect public safety, preserve property values, and maintain community character while facilitating appropriate development and economic activity.

Building Permits

Building permits are required for most construction, alteration, and improvement projects within Jackson town limits. The permit process ensures that projects comply with adopted building codes, structural standards, fire safety requirements, and zoning regulations. Obtaining proper permits protects property owners by ensuring work is performed to recognized standards and creates a record of improvements for future reference.

Residential Building Permits

Residential permits are required for:

• New single-family and two-family dwellings
• Additions to existing homes
• Remodeling projects affecting structure, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems
• Decks, patios, and outdoor structures over certain sizes
• Fences in certain locations
• Accessory structures (garages, sheds) over specified square footage
• Re-roofing in some circumstances
• Water heater replacements
• Electrical service upgrades

Before applying for a Town building permit, all applicants must first obtain a Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) permit from Jackson Hole Fire/EMS. This requirement ensures that construction in Jackson's wildfire-prone environment meets fire safety standards for materials, defensible space, and access. The WUI permit is a prerequisite for Town permit issuance.

Commercial Building Permits

Commercial permits are required for business construction, tenant improvements, alterations, and changes of use. Commercial projects typically involve more complex code requirements and review processes than residential work. Plans must be prepared by licensed professionals (architects, engineers) for most commercial projects.

Commercial permitting includes review for:

• Building code compliance (structural, fire, accessibility)
• Zoning conformance
• Parking requirements
• Life safety systems
• Accessibility (ADA compliance)
• Energy code compliance
• Fire sprinkler and alarm systems

Contractor Licensing

All trade work requiring Town inspection must be performed by contractors licensed with the Town of Jackson. Contractor licensing ensures that individuals performing construction work meet minimum qualifications, carry required insurance, and understand local code requirements. Licensed contractors are accountable for code-compliant work and corrections of deficiencies.

Contractor licenses are required for:

• General contractors
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• HVAC contractors
• Other specialized trades

Homeowners may perform work on their primary residence without contractor licensing for some projects, but all work must still be permitted and inspected. For safety and quality assurance, hiring licensed contractors is strongly recommended.

Business Licenses

All businesses operating within Jackson town limits must obtain a business license from the Town Finance Department. Business licensing provides a complete record of businesses operating in town, facilitates tax collection, and ensures businesses meet basic operating requirements. Licenses must be renewed annually.

Business license applications require:

• Business name and ownership information
• Business location address
• Type of business activity
• Proof of insurance
• Applicable fees

Some business types may require additional approvals such as liquor licenses (issued by Wyoming), health department permits (for food service), or special use permits (for certain land uses).

Development Review

Major development projects require comprehensive review beyond simple building permits. Development review ensures projects comply with zoning regulations, subdivision standards, and comprehensive plan policies. The review process may involve multiple steps including:

• Pre-application consultation
• Formal application submittal
• Staff technical review
• Planning Commission review (for certain applications)
• Public hearing (when required)
• Town Council decision (for some applications)
• Final plat or permit issuance

Development review applications include conditional use permits, variances, subdivisions, planned unit developments, and other land use approvals. Working with Planning & Building Department staff early in the process helps applicants understand requirements and navigate the review procedure efficiently.

Inspection Requirements

Permitted work must be inspected at specified stages to verify code compliance. Required inspections vary by project type but commonly include:

• Footing/foundation inspection
• Framing inspection
• Plumbing rough-in
• Electrical rough-in
• Mechanical rough-in
• Insulation inspection
• Final inspection

Permit holders or their contractors must request inspections at appropriate times during construction. Covering work before required inspection may necessitate removal of materials to allow code verification. Failed inspections must be corrected and re-inspected before proceeding.

Permit Application Process

To apply for permits:

1. Contact the Planning & Building Department to discuss your project
2. Obtain WUI permit from Jackson Hole Fire/EMS (for building permits)
3. Prepare required documents (plans, site surveys, specifications)
4. Submit complete application with applicable fees
5. Allow time for staff review and comment
6. Address any review comments or required revisions
7. Receive permit approval and authorization to begin work
8. Display permit card at job site
9. Request and pass all required inspections
10. Obtain final approval and certificate of occupancy (when required)

Code Enforcement

It is unlawful to construct, reconstruct, alter, or change the use of any building or property without obtaining required permits. Code enforcement staff investigate complaints about unpermitted work, zoning violations, and other code issues. Violations may result in stop-work orders, fines, and legal action to compel compliance.

The Town's code enforcement program is complaint-driven and focused on significant violations affecting public safety, property values, or neighborhood character. Staff work cooperatively with property owners to achieve voluntary compliance whenever possible.

According to the International Code Council, building codes are updated regularly to incorporate new safety standards, construction techniques, and energy efficiency requirements. Jackson adopts current editions of International Codes with local amendments.

Fees

Permit fees are based on project valuation and type of work. Fees fund the cost of plan review, inspections, and code administration. Fee schedules are available from the Planning & Building Department. Fees must be paid at time of application submission.

Contact Information

Planning & Building Department
Town Hall
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

We encourage applicants to contact staff before beginning the permitting process. Early consultation helps identify requirements, avoid delays, and ensure successful project completion.