Harrison County handles permitting for unincorporated areas, while incorporated cities like Gulfport, Biloxi, D'Iberville, and Pass Christian maintain their own independent building departments and permit portals. The county enforces specific coastal building codes and high-wind zone requirements due to its location on the Gulf of Mexico. Properties within designated flood zones are subject to additional review by the Harrison County Floodplain Manager.
All new construction and substantial improvements in unincorporated areas must comply with the Harrison County Coastal Building Code and specific wind-borne debris region requirements.
How this fits with the state
The state authority here is Mississippi State Board of Contractors. The county file does not replace that — it adds the permit office, local overlays, and the actual filing path.
Source · Harrison County Building and Development DepartmentLast verified · 05 / 2026