Building Department

The Building Department is responsible for the processing, review, and issuance of both residential and commercial building permits. From small home repairs to new multi-story construction, the department helps ensure that all projects adhere to state standards. The department operates Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a one hour lunch closure from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Permits

All residential, commercial, and trade (electrical, HVAC, gas, etc.) permits can be filed through the City's online permitting system, OpenGov. The City has transitioned from CommunityCore to OpenGov as of September 1, 2026. All active permits have been migrated between systems to minimize impact to reviews and inspections. To ensure a smooth transition, please complete the following steps:

Create an OpenGov Account. If an applicant has used OpenGov in another community then the same login will work for Powell. If an applicant is new to OpenGov, select the "Sign-up" button in the upper right corner of the public portal to register the account.
Submit Contractor Registration (if applicable). Submit a contractor registration through OpenGov to establish the company in the new system. Staff will verify active registrations and waive any fees that have been paid for 2026.
Identify list of Active CommunityCore Permits. CommunityCore logins will remain active to view permit status during the transition. Identify all active permit numbers and send the list with the primary applicant full name and email address to powelldevelopment@cityofpowell.us. Staff will connect the active permits to the primary applicant.
Inspection Scheduling. Inspections will no longer be scheduled through CommunityCore. Starting September 1, 2026, all inspections must be scheduled through OpenGov or by calling the inspection line. Updates in CommunityCore will stop as of August 31.

Please be patient with staff during this transition period.

Apply for Permits

Contractor Registration

The City of Powell requires all general, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, and other trade service contractors to register before filing permits. With the launch of OpenGov, a registered contractor is required to file an application. Registration expires on December 31st of each year and can be renewed on an annual basis. Visit the Contractor Registration page for more information.

Inspections

Inspections are conducted during Building Department hours Monday through Friday. All inspections for Building, Engineering, and Zoning are scheduled using the inspection line at 614.802.1200 or online through OpenGov. Inspections received by noon will be scheduled for the next business day or later if requested. To cancel an inspection, please contact the Building Department at 614.802.1200.

When requesting inspection(s) via the Inspection Line (614.802.1200) please indicate:

1. Permit Number

2. Permit Address

3. Type of Inspection(s)

4. Onsite Contact’s name and phone number

Please Note: If an inspection results in a failure, re-inspection fees will be assessed to the permit and further inspections will not be accepted until the fees have been paid. All inspection must be scheduled in the order as listed on the inspection card.

All previous and necessary inspections must be approved prior to scheduling the next inspection.