Apply for Building Permits

The City of St. George Building Department is committed to ensuring safe, compliant, and high- quality construction throughout the City. The department oversees permitting, plan review, inspections, and code enforcement for residential, commercial, and industrial development. Our team works proactively with contractors, developers, and residents to promote compliance with adopted building codes and to streamline the construction process. We are dedicated to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the community through consistent and professional service.

GovMotus Portal Help

Need assistance creating an account or applying for a permit? Step-by-step guides and instructional videos are available to help you navigate the GovMotus system.

• Linking of Permits
• Add Additional Users And Locate Inspection Reports
• Learn how to create an account
• Learn how to apply for permits
• Learn how to request inspections

View help documents and videos:

For technical support, contact: tsservicedesk@ibts.org

GOVmotus is our new platform designed to streamline permitting, improve efficiency and reduce processing times.

 Benefits of Our New Software System:

• Online Applications and Payments
  Easily apply for permits and make payments through our secure online portal.
• Application Tracking
  Track the status of your permit application from submission to final approval.
• Document Uploads
  Submit building plans and other required documents directly within your application.
• Instant Inspection Results
  Receive inspection results immediately via email and/or text message.
• Permit Information Access
  View and print real-time updates on permit status, fee payments, and plan review comments at your convenience.
• Inspection Scheduling and Reporting
  Schedule inspections and access up-to-date inspection status and printable reports in real time.
• Permit Fee Calculator
  Estimate plan review and flood zone fees before applying with our easy-to-use Permit Fee Calculator.

 Notice: 

Sewer tie-ins permits are required to be obtained from East Baton Rouge Parish Subdivision Engineering. These permits are required prior to the issuance of building permits for new construction.

For applications submitted prior to 10/16/2024, visit East Baton Rouge Parish

Mapping

Applications & Brochures

Building Permit Documentation

Building Department Notices

Important Requirements:

• All commercial buildings must have a Change of Occupancy inspection before utilities (including electricity) can be released or transferred.
• All new businesses must obtain an Occupational License from the Finance Department prior to opening.
• If there is a Change in Occupancy Classification (example: Business to Assembly), plans must be submitted and approved, including approval from the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office prior to occupancy.

Current Codes & Ordinances

• Adopted building codes (IBC, IRC, NEC, etc.)
• Louisiana State Building Code amendments
• Local ordinances and amendments
• Relevant sections of the Unified Development Code

Common Notes & Requirements

• Approved plans must be on-site for all inspections
• Work must be complete and accessible prior to requesting inspection
• Re-inspections may be required if work is not ready or fails inspection
• Contractors are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable codes and approved plans

Before You Build

To ensure a smooth construction process, please follow these steps:

1. Submit a permit application through the online portal
2. Upload required plans and supporting documentation
3. Receive plan review approval
4. Obtain your permit prior to starting work
5. Schedule inspections at each required phase
6. Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or Completion prior to use

Common Reasons Inspections Fail

To avoid delays, please ensure:

• Work is complete and ready for inspection
• The site is accessible (gate codes, lockboxes, etc. provided)
• Approved plans are available on-site
• Previous inspection corrections have been completed
• Work complies with approved plans and applicable codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Commitment

The City of St. George Building Department is dedicated to delivering professional, consistent, and timely service. We take pride in supporting responsible development while maintaining high standards that protect our community.

If you have questions as to whether or not you will need a permit for your project, please contact Permits Office at permits@stgeorgela.gov or (225)228.3200

*All commercial buildings must have a Change of Occupancy inspection before the energy can be turned on, change of names, change of use or new tenants move into a space. Also, all new businesses must obtain an Occupational License from our Finance Department before opening. If the Change of Occupancy Type changes (example: Business to Assembly), plans must be submitted to our office with approval from the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s office.

Please be aware that effective January 1, 2023, the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council has mandated that the 2021 editions of the following codes will be enforced:

• International Residential Code 2021
• International Building Code 2021
• International Fuel Gas Code 2021
• International Mechanical Code 2021
• National Electric Code 2020
• International Plumbing Code 2021
• International Energy Conservation Code 2021
• International Property Maintenance Code 2024

PERMITTING REPORTS