Building Department

ABOUT THIS DEPARTMENT

The Montcalm County Department of Building Safety was established in 1974 and currently includes:

  • 4 full-time employees
  • 5 part-time employees

We are responsible for enforcing the State Construction Code Act of 1972, which mandates that a nationally recognized construction code shall be enforced throughout the State of Michigan.

The Building Department:

  • Administers the state construction code in areas of Montcalm County not served by local township or city enforcement
  • Issues Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Permits
  • Operates the Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control (SESC) Program
  • Provides construction guidance and support to residents and contractors throughout the permitting process
  • Enforces building codes based on the effective date of each code—permits must comply with the code in effect at the time of issuance

We proudly serve:

  • All 20 townships in Montcalm County through a centralized department, making it easier for citizens and contractors to access services
  • The City of Greenville, by issuing Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Permits within its jurisdiction

Michigan Building Codes & Effective Dates

  • 2021 Michigan Building Code: Effective April 9, 2025
  • 2015 Michigan Building Code: Effective April 20, 2017
  • 2021 Michigan Rehabilitation Code: Effective April 9, 2025
  • 2015 Michigan Rehabilitation Code: Effective December 13, 2016
  • 2021 Michigan Mechanical Code: Effective March 12, 2024
  • 2021 Michigan Plumbing Code: Effective March 12, 2024
  • 2021 Michigan Commercial Energy Code: Effective April 22, 2025
  • 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC): Effective March 12, 2024
  • 2015 Michigan Residential Code: Effective February 8, 2016

Permit fees are based on the size and scope of each project:

  • Smaller projects incur lower fees
  • Larger projects require higher fees
  • Applicants pay only for the specific work being performed

All collected fees:

  • Are used exclusively to fund Building Department operations
  • Do not come from the county’s general fund or tax dollars
  • Cover costs for office space and administrative services provided by Montcalm County


Drain Commission Approval Required for Commercial Projects:

MISS DIGG 811 Guide