If you’re renovating a shop, opening a café, or re‑imagining any space, you’ll run into three sets of drawings: Permit Drawings, Construction Documents, and As‑Built Drawings. Here’s what each one does—and why you might need all three.
1. Permit Drawings: “Let’s Get the City’s Okay”
Permit Drawings are the set of drawings you submit to your local building department to get permission to start construction. Their primary purpose is to show that your project meets all applicable building codes, zoning rules, and safety regulations. Once these drawings are reviewed and approved, you’ll receive a building permit.
Not all renovations require a permit. Not sure if your project requires a permit? Click here
Depending on the complexity of your project and your local jurisdiction, Permit Drawings typically include:
- Site plan showing the building in context
- Dimensioned floor plans
- Exterior elevations
- Sections or construction details
- Door and window schedules
- Code summaries
- Energy or accessibility compliance notes
Permit Drawings are not the same as fully detailed construction plans.
They usually show what you’re building and how it complies with regulations—but not necessarily everything you – as a homeowner or business owner – care about. For example, permit drawings would show a restroom layout with required clearances and fixture counts, but not which faucet model or tile pattern you’re choosing.
For most straightforward remodels, Permit Drawings can give builders enough information to price the job. However, if your project grows in complexity and specificity, a full Construction Document (CD) set becomes essential for both accurate pricing and precise construction. In those cases, the extra detail protects your design intent and your wallet.
2. Construction Documents: “Let’s Build This Thing Right”
Construction Documents—often called CDs—are the detailed instruction manual for your builder. If Permit Drawings get you the green light, Construction Documents make sure the final result is exactly what you wanted.
This is where your project becomes real:
- Every finish (tile, paint, flooring)
- Every fixture (light, faucet, cabinet pull)
- Every dimension, section, and note
- Integrated structural, MEP, and code details (as required)
It should all be in the Construction Documents. These are the documents your contractor is legally bound to follow, so anything that’s important to you—how high the shelves go, which direction the tile runs, what color grout you want—should be clearly shown.
A strong set of CDs means:
- Fewer change orders
- Less back-and-forth during construction
- Fewer costly mistakes or assumptions
Some smaller jobs might not need a full set of CDs, but if you’re hiring a general contractor or managing a team of trades, it’s often worth the extra clarity.
If it matters to you—it belongs in the CDs.
3. As-Built Drawings: “Here’s What Was Really Built”
As-Built Drawings show what was actually built after construction is done. Even with the best plans, field conditions sometimes require changes—maybe a wall shifts 2 inches, or a duct gets rerouted. As-Builts document these adjustments so you have an accurate, final record.
They’re useful for:
- Future renovations or maintenance
- Submitting to landlords or city agencies
- Selling your space down the road
In Summary:
| Drawing Type | Purpose | When You Need It |
| Permit Drawings | To get approval from the city Focused on code and compliance | Before construction begins and sometimes for bidding |
| Construction Docs | To guide the builder in full detail Legally binding contract drawings with the builder | For bidding and during construction |
| As-Built Drawings | To document what was actually built | After construction is finished |
If you’re planning a renovation and want help with permit drawings—feel free to reach out. I’m here to help.
—Permitti
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, code, or permitting advice. Every project is unique, and permitting requirements can vary depending on location, scope, and agency review. You should always consult with the appropriate professionals or municipal departments for your specific project requirements.