Building Permit Glossary
Permit Expiration
The point at which a permit is no longer active under the AHJ's time limits, often because work did not start or inspections were not kept current.
Problems & timingPermit process
Applies to
All residential permits
Project example
A roof permit left open after the contractor stops work may need an extension or reactivation before the next inspection.
Also called
expired permitpermit lapseinactive permit
Where this term shows up in permit work and how it affects the project
Expiration changes the filing strategy: confirm whether an extension, renewal, or new application is required before promising a customer a start date.
If this term appears in a form, plan comment, or local ordinance, start with the building permit guide, compare it against the zoning permit guide, then use the permit guide directory to find the right local path.