7710 West Saginaw Hwy Lansing MI 48917
517 - 323 - 8500

Thinking about Building a new Commercial or Industrial Building in Delta Township?


If you are Building a new Commercial or Industrial Building there are several permits that need to be obtained.

Depending on the Project scale, there are several steps in the process.  This is a guideline to help you navigate through the system and help answer your questions.

If you have additional questions, please call the Economic Development Coordinator, or the Community Development Department for assistance.

What Permits do I need for Building a New Commercial or Industrial Building?
Plans and other construction documents for building projects are required by the State of Michigan to be sealed by an architect or engineer licensed to practice in the State of Michigan.

Planning and Zoning:
One of the first steps in the process is to contact the Planning and Zoning Division [517-323-8560] to discuss your project.  Several considerations should be discussed early on in the process to alleviate potential future problems.  Site plans should be submitted so the Department can evaluate the over-all project and begin to verify requirements, such as zoning, parking requirements, access roads, fire lanes, property line setbacks, easements, and several other items. 

Sewer and Water Capital Charges:
When a new building is constructed and hooked up to the Public Water and Sewer System a “Capital Charge” must be charged. The fee is based on the use of the property. Please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530 to obtain the estimated fee.

Plan Submission: 
Plans and other construction documents for Commercial or Industrial Projects should be submitted – 1 hard copy and 1 electronic copy.

Building Permits – Commercial Projects
Getting Started

  • For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all Building projects.
  • Depending on the scope of work, your project will likely require separate Plumbing, Electrical, and Mechanical permits. These permits must be secured by the sub-contractors prior to performing any work on the site.
  • If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Building related work – even for small projects.
Project/Permitting Flow Chart:

Project-Flow-Chart

Hiring a contractor?
All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).  Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.

Project and Fees:
You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.

The Building Permit fees are based on the scope of work of your Project.  The fee is based on the actual value of the construction.  The fees are automatically calculated on the application [fillable form] as you fill it out.

Applying For My Building Permit:
Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online.  All Building Permits require a Plan Review process.  Once approved, the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Plan Review Process:
Commercial/industrial building permits require a plan review.  Plan review typically takes 4 weeks, however, this varies depending on the project scope.  To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require the following information:

  • Complete Building Plans, drawn to scale
  • Contain definitions if legends are used
  • Nature, and extent, of the work proposed
  • The plans shall show, in detail that they will conform to the applicable Code rules, requirements, ordinances, and regulations.
If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Building Plan Submission:
These Plans need to be specific and include all details necessary to determine building materials, specifications, and sizes. The plans should be emailed to the Building Official at mleach@deltami.gov

Typical plans include:

  1. Site plan
  2. Floor plans
  3. Elevation views
  4. Cross section and detail drawings
  5. Your plans must clearly show all the work you intend to do on the building as well as the existing conditions. Existing conditions and new construction must be clearly delineated. Plans must also show where the building sits on your property in relationship to property lines and other buildings on the site.
Inspections:
Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office.  Depending on your Project, several inspections could be required for the work.

Electrical Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started

  • For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all electrical projects.
  • If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Electrical work – even for small projects.
Hiring a contractor?
All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).  Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.Project and FeesYou will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all Electrical work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.The fees for your Electrical Permit are based on the scope of work of your Project.  The individual fees are listed on the Delta Township Permit Application.Plan Review ProcessElectrical permits requiring plan review will generally be reviewed and issued within ten working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope.  To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require the following information:


  • Complete Electrical Plans, drawn to scale
  • Contain definitions if legends are used
  • Nature, and extent, of the work proposed
  • The plans shall show, in detail that they will conform to the applicable Electrical Code rules, requirements, ordinances, and regulations.

If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.Applying For My Electrical PermitPermit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online.  For Commercial and Industrial Projects Electrical Plans are required.  Electrical permits not requiring plan review are generally issued the same day the Permit Application is received.  A copy of the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.InspectionsInspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office.  Depending on your Project, several inspections could be required for the work.

Plumbing Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started
  • For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all Plumbing projects.
  • If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Plumbing work – even for small projects.

Hiring a contractor?
All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).  Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township.

Project and Fees:
You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all Plumbing work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.The fees for your Plumbing Permit are based on the scope of work of your Project. 

The individual fees are listed on the Delta Township Permit Application.

Applying For My Plumbing Permit
Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online.  For Commercial and Industrial Projects Plumbing Plans are required.  Plumbing permits not requiring plan review are generally issued the same day the Permit Application is received.  A copy of the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Plan Review Process:
Plumbing permits requiring plan review will generally be reviewed and issued within ten working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope.  To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require the following information:

  • A complete Plumbing Plan, drawn to scale showing the location of all plumbing fixtures, and the location of drains.
  • Site plan showing the following information:
    1. Size, location, depth of burial, including the type of the material of the storm/sanitary sewer
    2. Size, location, water pressure, depth of burial and type of material of the water line
    3. A drawing showing the size and type of material for the drainage and venting systems, storm water, hot and cold water piping.
    4. A copy of the specifications describing the fixtures, the appliances, the roof drains and other appurtenances supplied
If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Inspections:
Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office.

Depending on your Project, several inspections could be required for the work

Mechanical Permits – Commercial Projects

Getting Started

  • For Commercial and Industrial Projects, a separate permit is needed for all Mechanical projects.
  • If you are operating your business in a Commercial or Industrial structure, only a licensed contractor may secure permits and perform the Mechanical work – even for small projects.

Hiring a contractor?
All contractors working within the State of Michigan must be licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).  Only Contractors with current licenses, in good standing, are allowed to work in Delta Township. 

Project and Fees:
You will be asked to describe the scope of work proposed and to provide a detailed list of all Mechanical work you will be performing. If you have questions, please call the Building Division at 517-323-8530.The fees for your Mechanical Permit are based on the scope of work of your Project. 

The individual fees are listed on the Delta Township Permit Application.

Applying For My Mechanical Permit
Permit Applications can be filed using our automated online program at www.deltami.gov, or using a paper form available online.  For Commercial and Industrial Projects Plumbing Plans are required.  Plumbing permits not requiring plan review are generally issued the same day the Permit Application is received.  A copy of the issued permit will be emailed/mailed to you.

Plan Review Process:
Mechanical permits requiring plan review will generally be reviewed and issued within ten working days, however, this varies depending on the Project Scope.  To assure the Project goes as smooth as possible, we require a complete Mechanical Plan, drawn to scale showing the location of all fixtures and a full plan detail.

If you are unsure whether your project requires “plan review,” please call the office for clarification.

Inspections:
Inspections can be scheduled either online at deltami.gov, or by calling the Building Division Office.

What does the Fire Department Require to be submitted for Commercial Projects?
General
  • All plans MUST be submitted electronically (approved under 2012 IFC 105.4.2).
  • Permits for fire alarm and fire suppression systems must be approved through the plan review process BEFORE the permit is issued (2012 IFC 105.4.2.1).
Site Plans (2012 IFC 501.3)
  • Width of all fire lanes and access
  • Location of all fire hydrants, Post Indicating Valves and Fire
Department Connections
  • Location of approved signage for all fire lanes and fire hydrants
  • Distances around a structure from the nearest access points of the approved fire lanes (must be less than 300 feet: 2012 IFC 503.1.1)
  • Data and specification sheets of the fire lane construction including supported weight
Building Plans (2012 IFC 105.4.1)
  • Complete floor plans
  • Life safety plan sheet to include
    • Measurement of at least 2 egress travel distances from the 2 most remote and opposite points
    • Fire extinguisher placement with travel distance halos (preferred near exits)
    • Distance between exits
  • Code table to include but not limited to occupancy classification, building data, allowable height and building area, automatic fire alarm and sprinkler systems, occupancy load calculations, number of exits, exit width, and maximum travel distance
  • Manufactures data and specification sheets showing flame spread and smoke development index and testing standard for all interior finishing (including all floor, wall, and ceiling coverings and any tarps, curtains, etc.)
Fire Alarm Plans (2012 IFC 907.1.2)
  • Floor plans including ceiling height and construction
  • Locations of alarm-initiating devices, alarm notification appliances, fire alarm control unit, transponders, notification power supplies, and annunciators including:
    • Candela and/or DB ratings
    • Coverage area per notification device on floor plan (Delta)
  • Power connections
  • Battery calculations
  • Conductor type and sizes
  • Voltage drop calculations
  • Manufacturer’s data and specification sheets indicating model numbers and listing information for all equipment, devices, and materials
  • The interface of fire safety control functions
  • Classification and name of the supervising station
  • If adding to an existing fire alarm system or panel, provide documentation of last fire alarm system annual certification (must be within 1 year of permit application) (Delta)
Fire Suppression Plans (2010 NFPA 13 22.1)
  • All applicable drawings and sketches from current Michigan approved edition NFPA 13 22.1.3
  • Complete hydraulic calculation sheets/reports with graphs
  • Complete water supply information
  • Manufacturer’s data and specification sheets indicating model numbers and listing information for all equipment, devices, and materials
If adding to an existing fire suppression system or panel, provide documentation of last fire alarm system annual certification (must be within 1 year of permit application) (Delta)

Other Fee Considerations - Restaurant Requirements
Depending on the type of Project you are planning, different criteria may apply.For example, for Restaurant and Food Service Facilities, you also need to contact the County Health Department at 517-485-7111Other notes regarding Commercial Jobs

  • Restaurants and Food Service facilities must have their plans reviewed and approved by the Eaton County Health Department. Call Environmental Health at 517-485-7111
Other Fees that you should be aware of, and may be included in a project are

  • Plan Review fee – Commercial jobs – the fee will be calculated at 50% of the building permit fee
  • Plan Review fee – Residential – Projects that come under the scope of the Michigan Residential Code will be calculated at 10% of the building permit fee.
  • You will have Permit fees for each trade.
    • You will have inspection fees to the Fire Department.
    • Sewer Capital Charge, which will be based on the use of the building or structure.
    • Sewer Main Charge, varies with each project.
    • Sewer Permit Fees, this fee varies with each project.
      • Storm Sewer Permit fees.
      • Water Capital Charge.
      • Water Installation Fee.
    • Please call or e-mail for more information regarding your project.
Delta Township has the following basic design parameters

  • Ground snow load 30 psf
  • Wind speed 90 mph
  • Seismic Design Category A
  • Weathering Severe
  • Frost Line Depth 42 inches
  • Termite Infestation Probability Slight to None
  • Decay Probability None to Slight
  • Winter Design Temperature Please see appendix D of the Michigan Plumbing Code
  • Flood Hazard Please call or e-mail for information.
Inspector Availability
Inspectors are normally available for inspections within 24 hours of notification. The inspectors are equipped with the latest technology in communication and field computer resources to track permit activity. Delta Township prides itself in a cooperative approach to construction regulation.

Contact Us
Do you have an idea, question or comment for the Township? Let us know!

Contact Us

7710 West Saginaw Hwy
Lansing MI 48917
Phone: (517) 323-8500
Fax: (517) 323-8599
Monday - Friday:
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.