💰 Permit Cost Estimator
Select your situation. We'll estimate the full permit and compliance cost — not just the building permit fee.
What Permit Costs Cover
The permit cost is a small fraction of total court construction cost (which typically runs $15,000–$50,000 for a full permanent concrete court). But it's the part most homeowners budget incorrectly because they only account for the building permit and ignore everything else.
| Cost Item | Low Estimate | Typical | High Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building permit fee | $150 | $400 | $1,200 | Based on project valuation |
| HOA architectural review | $0 | $75 | $300 | Some HOAs charge a fee |
| Site plan / drawings | $150 | $350 | $800 | Contractor or drafter |
| Drainage plan | $0 | $200 | $800 | Engineer stamp if complex |
| Electrical permit (lighting) | $80 | $200 | $500 | If adding lights |
| Grading permit | $100 | $250 | $600 | If significant earthwork |
| Variance application | $250 | $750 | $2,000 | If coverage or setback variance needed |
| Legal / land use attorney | $0 | $500 | $2,500 | If variance contested or HOA dispute |
| Acoustic noise study | $0 | $0 | $1,500 | Rarely required for residential |
Construction Cost Is Separate These estimates cover permit and compliance costs only — not the court construction itself. Total court construction (concrete slab, surface coating, fencing, net) typically runs $15,000–$50,000 depending on size, surface quality, and region. Lighting adds $4,000–$12,000. Acoustic fencing adds $3,500–$8,000.
Disclaimer Cost estimates are based on aggregated data from U.S. municipalities and homeowner reports as of May 2026. Actual costs vary significantly by jurisdiction and project specifics. Always verify fee schedules with your local building department before budgeting.