General information for homeowners, not legal or engineering advice. Permit rules change and vary by municipality; check with the City of Grand Rapids or your city or township’s permit office before you start work.
Whether replacing concrete steps or a stoop needs a permit depends on where you live and what the work involves. This is a general overview for Grand Rapids and nearby Kent County homeowners. Rules change and vary between communities, so always confirm with your local building or permit office before work starts.
Who handles permits
- City of Grand Rapids: homes inside city limits go through the City of Grand Rapids building and permit office.
- Nearby cities: East Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, Walker, Grandville and Rockford each have their own building departments or permit contacts.
- Townships: townships such as Ada, Cascade, Byron and others in Kent County, and Georgetown Township in Ottawa County for Jenison, have their own building departments or contracted inspectors.
If you are not sure which office covers your address, your city or township’s website is the place to start.
When a permit may be needed
Common situations that can call for a permit or review include:
- New steps or a new stoop where none existed, or a larger landing than before
- Steps tall enough that guards or railings are required
- Changing the entry, door location or structure the steps attach to
- Work in or near the public sidewalk or right-of-way
- Homes in a historic district, where exterior changes may need extra review
Simple like-for-like repairs are often treated differently from new construction, but don’t assume. Ask the permit office for your address.
Historic districts
Grand Rapids has historic districts, including Heritage Hill. If your home is in one, changes to front steps and stoops may need historic review in addition to any building permit. Check before you choose materials and finishes.
Questions to ask before work starts
- Does this work need a permit at my address, and who will pull it?
- Is the cost of the permit included in the estimate?
- Do the new steps need handrails or guards?
- Has a MISS DIG 811 utility locate been requested before digging?
- Is the contractor insured and, if the work requires it, licensed in Michigan through LARA?
Next steps
Once you know the rules for your address, read what drives concrete steps cost orrequest a free written estimate from a local contractor.