Whether you need an architect depends on what you are building, where, and how much design help you want. For most single-family homes and residential projects such as decks, garages, additions and remodels, state laws don’t require an architect, and drafters, designers or the homeowner can prepare permit drawings, with an engineer for structural items. Architects are required for some larger or non-residential buildings, and many owners choose one for complex or custom design.
Quick answer: You usually don’t legally need an architect for single-family homes or residential additions in most states, because architecture laws commonly exempt them. Drafters and designers can prepare permit drawings, with an engineer for structural work beyond the code tables. You may need an architect for commercial buildings, larger multi-family projects, some jurisdictions’ rules, or when you want full design services.
When the law may require you to need an architect
Each state’s architecture practice act defines which buildings require a licensed architect. Common patterns:
- One- and two-family homes are frequently exempt.
- Small accessory buildings and agricultural buildings are often exempt.
- Commercial buildings and larger multi-family buildings usually require an architect above a size or occupancy threshold.
- Some states set size limits even for homes.
- Some cities require a licensed professional for certain projects regardless of state rules.
Check your state board’s rules and ask your building department. For what a full permit set involves, see our pillar permit drawing set guide.
Who can prepare residential permit drawings
| Professional | Typical role |
|---|---|
| Homeowner | Simple projects in many jurisdictions |
| Drafter | Site plans, floor plans, elevations, permit sets from your design |
| Residential or building designer | Design and permit sets for homes and additions |
| Architect | Full design services, required for some buildings |
| Structural engineer | Structural design and sealed calculations |
| Land surveyor | Boundary and topographic surveys, plats |
See when you need a structural engineer for the engineering side.
What an architect offers beyond drawings
Architects are trained in design: space planning, light, proportion, materials and how a building fits its site. Full architectural services often include programming (what you need), schematic design, design development, construction documents, help with bidding and construction administration. For a custom home, a major renovation, a difficult site or a historic building, that design input can be worth far more than its cost.
When a drafter or designer is enough
- You know what you want, and need it drawn to permit standard.
- The project is straightforward: a deck, garage, shed, simple addition or remodel.
- Your contractor will guide construction decisions.
- State law doesn’t require an architect for the building type.
Our full permit drawing sets, floor plans and elevations are prepared by drafters for these projects, with engineering coordinated where required.
When an architect is worth hiring
- Custom homes and major renovations with complex design goals.
- Historic buildings and design review districts.
- Tight or steep sites where design creativity solves problems.
- Projects requiring an architect by law.
- Owners who want a professional to manage bidding and construction.
Architects and engineers together
Architects coordinate the design team, usually including a structural engineer, and sometimes mechanical and civil engineers. On drafter-led residential projects, the drafter or owner coordinates the engineer instead. Either way, the engineer seals the structural design where required. See our engineer stamp guide.
Questions to ask your building department
- Does this project require drawings by a licensed architect or engineer?
- Are homeowner- or drafter-prepared drawings accepted?
- Which items need an engineer’s seal?
- Are there design review requirements?
Design-build contractors
Some contractors offer design and construction together. They work with in-house designers, drafters or partner architects to produce permit drawings, then build the project. This can be efficient for straightforward residential work, because the builder’s cost knowledge shapes the design from the start. The trade-off is less independent design advice and less ability to compare bids, since the design is tied to one builder.
What to bring to a first meeting
Whoever you hire, the first meeting goes better with information: your property survey or plat, any existing drawings, photos, a list of what you need the project to do, a rough budget, and examples of designs you like. For permit-only drafting, bring as much of the design as you have decided. For full architectural services, bring your goals and constraints and let the architect explore options.
Comparing costs and scope
Architects typically charge more than drafters because they provide design services, not just documentation. Drafters typically draw what you have decided. Some design-build contractors include design in their price. Compare scope, not just fees: what decisions will be made for you, how many revisions are included, and whether construction support is part of the service.
Common misconceptions
- “Every permit needs an architect.” Most residential permits don’t.
- “An architect’s stamp covers structure.” Structural work may still need an engineer.
- “Drafters can’t design.” Many residential designers are experienced, though not licensed as architects.
- “Hiring an architect guarantees approval.” Approval depends on compliance and complete documents.
Our approach
We prepare permit drawings for residential projects across the U.S. and coordinate licensed engineering where required. We don’t represent ourselves as architects. If your project requires an architect by law, we’ll tell you, and our drawings can still support early feasibility and site planning. See our about page and how it works.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an architect to build a house?
In many states, not for a single-family home, but rules vary. Check your state and city.
Do I need an architect for an addition?
Usually not for residential additions, though engineering may be needed for structure.
Can a drafter prepare permit drawings?
Yes, for residential projects in most jurisdictions.
How do I check whether someone is a licensed architect?
Use your state architecture board’s online licence lookup. Only licensed individuals may call themselves architects.
Is an architect the same as an engineer?
No. Architects focus on building design; engineers on structure and systems.
When must I hire an architect?
When state law or local rules require one, typically for commercial or larger multi-family buildings.
