Kit Claude Code Starter
Free Claude Code setup for any repo: CLAUDE.md, permissions, skills and MCP.

Peplio's take
I went through Kit Claude Code Starter, and the best part is how small it is: four plain-text files, no dependencies and no tracking, so you can read all of it in five minutes. The permission list blocks risky commands like force-push and deleting files, which is exactly what you want before letting an AI agent touch your repo. The paid setup services are optional, since the free starter already works as it is.
Tested by Sougan Kumar Mandi, October 2026
What is Kit Claude Code Starter?
Kit by SDV Signal is a free starter kit for Claude Code, designed to help developers integrate Claude Code into their projects more smoothly. It provides essential files and examples to get Claude Code working out of the box, addressing common initial setup challenges like permission requests for tests and build processes.
This tool is intended for developers who are using or plan to use Claude Code in their repositories. It is particularly useful for those who want to quickly set up Claude Code with pre-configured settings, examples of project memory, permission allowlists, and basic skills. The kit aims to save developers time by providing ready-to-use components that can be easily adapted to their specific project needs.
Key features include example files such as CLAUDE.md for project memory, a .claude/settings.json with a permissions allowlist, and an .mcp.json example. The kit is distributed under the MIT license, allowing for free use and adaptation. It contains no secrets, telemetry, or external dependencies, ensuring a clean and straightforward integration. Developers can review and copy the necessary parts within minutes.
Getting started involves cloning the repository, copying the provided files (CLAUDE.md, .claude/, and .mcp.json.example) into your project's root directory, and then installing Claude Code if you haven't already. After running Claude Code in your repository, you can use commands like /ship-check to verify your setup. The process includes editing CLAUDE.md with your project's specific commands and adjusting the permissions allowlist in .claude/settings.json to match your actual commands.
Key features
- CLAUDE.md exampleA short project memory file with your commands and repo layout.
- Permission allowlistLets Claude run your tests and lint without asking every time.
- Safety deny rulesBlocks force-push, rm -rf and reading .env files.
- Three ready skillsship-check, new-feature and explain-diff for daily work.
- MCP exampleA .mcp.json example file to connect tools safely.
- MIT licensedFree to copy, change and use, with no dependencies or tracking.
Who should use Kit Claude Code Starter?
- Developers starting with Claude Code on an existing project
- Teams that want safe default permissions for an AI coding agent
- Anyone looking for a working CLAUDE.md or settings.json example
- Solo builders who want tests and lint checked before every commit
How to use Kit Claude Code Starter
- Install Claude Code and run claude once in your repository.
- Copy CLAUDE.md, the .claude folder and .mcp.json.example into your repo.
- Edit CLAUDE.md with your install, dev, test and lint commands.
- Run claude, then type /ship-check to confirm your tests and lint pass.
Kit Claude Code Starter FAQ
Is Kit Claude Code Starter free?
Yes. The starter is open source under the MIT license and fully free. The author also offers optional paid setup services, but the repo itself is complete.
What files does it include?
It includes a CLAUDE.md example, a .claude/settings.json permission file with hooks, three skills and a .mcp.json example.
How long does setup take?
The basic copy works in about a minute. Making it fit your project, mainly editing CLAUDE.md and the allowlist, takes about 15 minutes.
Is it safe to use?
It has no secrets, no tracking and no dependencies. Its deny rules block risky commands like force-push and rm -rf, and you can read every file before using it.
Is it made by Anthropic?
No. It is an independent open source project and is not affiliated with Anthropic.
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