Luis Boza Architect
AboutInsightsBook a callOr send a messageDC · MD · VA
← Back to Resources
Tool
Permit fee estimator.

The DC building permit fee below uses the DC Department of Buildings' actual published formula - not a guess. The other agencies only apply if your project touches them, so check what's real for your scope.

DC's figures below use DOB's published fee schedule directly. Maryland and Virginia are still an approximation - the same real-formula treatment is coming.
Estimated construction value
$150,000
$10k$1M
DOB building permit (alteration/repair)
$0
Includes the base permit fee, the 10% Enhanced Fee, and the Green Building Fee - DOB's real formula, applied exactly.
Other agencies - answer what you know
DDOT - public space work
A driveway, fence, retaining wall, or paving that touches the public right-of-way.
$0
DC Water - new or modified connection
A new or changed water, sewer, or storm connection. If adding a unit or increasing demand, a separate System Availability Fee may apply - ask DC Water directly for that number.
$0
DOEE - stormwater / erosion review
Applies if the project disturbs land - most additions and any new construction. Scaled by disturbed area, approximated here against your budget size.
$0
Historic district
Most projects clear through HPO's Expedited Review at no charge. A small filing fee applies only if it goes to the full HPRB.
$0
Permit expediter or private plan reviewer
Optional - a third-party professional service, not a government fee.
$0

DOB's figure uses their published formula exactly, for the alteration/repair tier - new construction is priced differently, by cubic foot. Every other line is a typical range, not a quote - actual fees depend on your specific project, and DOEE and DC Water in particular depend on details this slider can't see. Confirm the real numbers with each agency, or during the on-site visit.

Running Total
DOB building permit
$0
DDOT public space
Not included
DC Water connection
Not included
DOEE stormwater
Not included
Historic district
Not included
Expediter / plan reviewer
Not included
Estimated total range
$0 - $0