Lafayette County Launches GovWell, Online Permitting Portal September 29, 2026

Lafayette County residents, contractors, and developers can now submit building and land-use applications online through GovWell.

According to recently appointed County Planner Tristan Riddell, the web-based system modernizes how the County processes applications and communicates with the public.

“GovWell provides a platform that makes it easier to quickly access our permitting process,” Riddell said. “It streamlines application submittal, staff review, and coordination with project applicants.”

In his role, Riddell guides land proposals and long-range planning as Lafayette County grows. He noted that for standard permits, applicants can handle the entire process online without phone calls or trips to the Development Services office.

Is GovWell the Right Portal for Your Property?

Lafayette County processes and issues E-911 addresses for all property within the county, excluding those within the corporate limits of Oxford. In addition to all properties within the unincorporated areas of Lafayette County, we also process building permits for properties within the corporate limits of Abbeville.

Properties located within Oxford city limits follow municipal permitting rules and do not use the county portal. Property owners who are unsure of their jurisdiction should call Development Services to verify location before submitting an application.

Permits Available Online

The portal centralizes several types of county development applications:

  • Building and Trade Permits: Residential and commercial building permits, remodeling submittals, pools, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and gas permits.
  • Planning and Zoning: Preliminary and final subdivision plats, planned unit developments, rezoning requests, conditional use permits, dimensional variances, and zoning verification letters.
  • Site and Infrastructure Work: Grading and clearing permits, sewer connection permits, and right-of-way work.
  • County Services: E911 address requests for new properties, special event permits, and contractor registrations or renewals.

Application Requirements

Preparing information in advance ensures prompt processing times:

  • Existing Applications: Submissions made before GovWell launched will continue moving through normal processing channels. Applicants do not need to resubmit active projects online.
  • Property Information: Standard building permits require a street address. E911 address requests require a tax parcel number to help staff locate the site.
  • Contractor Documentation: Licensed contractors registering or renewing through GovWell must enter business details and upload a copy of their current state license.
  • Email Updates and Fees: Applicants must register with an active email address. The system sends automated email notifications when staff request information or complete review steps. Review fees are paid online prior to final permit approval.

Hard-copy applications remain accepted at the Development Services office, though digital submissions through GovWell provide the fastest processing times.

Visit the Lafayette County GovWell portal to create an account and submit an application. For questions regarding jurisdiction or permit requirements, contact Lafayette County Development Services at (662) 236-0237 or visit the office at 300 N. Lamar Blvd., Oxford, MS 38655.