Stop-work order
Also called red tag, stop work notice
An official order to halt construction, posted when work is done without a permit, outside the approved scope, or in an unsafe condition.
When it applies
In the permitting lifecycle, stop-work order applies during Inspections.
- Setup: does not usually apply
- Preparation: does not usually apply
- Submission: does not usually apply
- Plan review: does not usually apply
- Permit issued: does not usually apply
- Inspections: applies at this phase
- Closeout: does not usually apply
A stop-work order, commonly a red tag, is a notice posted at a job site directing that work cease immediately. It is issued by a building official or inspector and stays in force until the underlying problem is resolved and the order is lifted.
Why they get issued
- Work is being done with no permit
- Work has gone outside the approved scope
- A condition on site is unsafe
- Repeated failures on the same inspection item
- Work was covered before required inspection
Getting it lifted
Resolution depends on the cause. Unpermitted work needs an after-the-fact permit, which often carries a penalty fee set at a multiple of the normal permit fee. Out-of-scope work needs a revision. Unsafe conditions need correction and re-inspection.
Continuing to work under a posted order escalates matters quickly, into daily fines and, in some jurisdictions, action against a contractor's license. The order is also a public record attached to the property, which is the part that resurfaces at sale.
Related terms
Rules vary by jurisdiction
This definition is general. How stop-work order is handled in practice is set by the building department that permits your property. Find yours in our free directory.
Last reviewed September 4, 2026