# WikEst — US Home Project Permit & Feasibility Wiki

WikEst is a citation-linked reference for U.S. residential building permits and project feasibility. It explains, by project type and U.S. state or county, whether a home project needs a permit, which authority issues it, typical fees and timelines, and a clear go / no-go — with every rule linked to its official source.

## Core tools
- Permit checker: https://wikest.com/check/ — pick a state and project for the go / no-go with official sources.
- Compare states: https://wikest.com/compare/
- County permit authorities: https://wikest.com/counties/ — who issues permits in each county, with the official portal.

## By project type (16 types)
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), deck / porch, fence / wall, shed / outbuilding, basement finish, garage / carport, rooftop solar PV, HVAC replacement, kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, room addition, window / door replacement, roof replacement, driveway / parking pad, swimming pool / spa, retaining wall. Full list: https://wikest.com/projects/

## By state (20 states)
California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey, Virginia, Washington, Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Indiana, Missouri, Maryland, Wisconsin. Full list: https://wikest.com/states/

## Guides
- Built without a permit? How to legalize it: https://wikest.com/guides/built-without-permit/
- How to get a building permit (step by step): https://wikest.com/guides/how-to-get-a-permit/
- Can you pull your own permit? (Owner-builder): https://wikest.com/guides/owner-builder/

## Printable checklists
Pre-construction, inspection stages, and by project type: https://wikest.com/checklists/

## Methodology
Rules are compiled from official state building codes, state housing/department sources, and city/county building departments. Each state and county profile records its sources and last-reviewed date. Where an exact fee or timeline is not published, the entry says so rather than guessing.

## Important
WikEst is informational and is not legal advice. Building, permit, lien, and zoning rules vary by city and county. Always confirm with the local building department before starting work.