| The City began using International Building Codes January 2008. For additional information, refer to the Structural Design Criteria web page. |
Below is a list of common projects that require a building permit. If you have questions on whether your project requires a building permit, you should contact the Building and Safety Division for a determination. Please note that all projects may not be allowed in all zoning districts. It is recommended that you contact the Planning Division prior to any significant
investment in your project.
Building Permit Application form
Permit by Fax Program
Common Projects that REQUIRE a Building Permit
- New construction of a home or commercial building
- New construction of an accessory building (see exemptions)
- Additions or alteration of an existing home, accessory building, or commercial building
- Moving/demolishing a building
- Occupancy of an existing commercial building for a new commercial uses
- New installation or replacement of windows
Exterior Projects
- Fences over six (6) feet in height
- Masonry fences and walls (see exemptions)
- Patio covers
- Decks over thirty (30) inches off the ground or any height if attached to the home
- Retaining walls (see exemptions)
- Replace the roof on a house, garage or other structure
- Replace the siding on a house or garage
- Addition of an enclosed patio
- Installation of a swimming pool or hot tub
- Remodeling of a garage
- Sign installations
Interior Projects
- Alteration of interior walls
- Installation of a wood-burning stove or fireplace
Plumbing/Electrical/Mechanical Projects
- Replacement/installation of water heaters and water softeners
- Hot tub or whirlpool installation
- Replacement of mechanical equipment
- Any type of electrical, heating or plumbing alteration/improvement/addition
- Replacement of furnace or central air conditioner
- Alteration of a kitchen/bathroom
- Installation of a ceiling fan
Below is a list of common projects that are exempt from a building permit. If you have questions on whether your project is exempt, you may contact the Building and Safety Division for a determination. Although many of these projects do not require a building permit, they do have minimum setback standards that are enforced by the Planning Division. Please contact the Planning Division for setback requirements.
Common Projects that DO NOT Require a Building Permit:
- Construction of a single-story detached accessory building used as tool or storage shed, playhouse, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet
- Replacement of a non-masonry fence in the same location
- Construction of a retaining wall not over four (4) feet in height as measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of a wall
- Change of flooring, carpet, inlaid tiles or wood
- Painting, papering, and similar finish work
- Platforms, walks and driveways not more than thirty (30) inches above grade
Click here for a detailed list of other projects that are exempt from a building permit.
Work Done Without Required Permits
City ordinances and state statutes require building permits. If you do not get a building permit when it is required, the city can legally fine you for the violation for every day the work is not in compliance. The permit and accompanying inspections are to ensure you that the work is "up to code" and safe. Projects not done according to code can affect your home's insurability and potential future sale. Prospective buyers can check the city's building records.
Work that was done without obtaining required permits is a violation of the State Building Code and is considered illegally constructed work. There are no statutes of limitation on illegal construction. If any work has been done illegally in the past or if change of ownership has occurred does not make the non-permitted work legal.
In order to legalize the work, you must comply to the current codes regardless when the construction was done. You may contact the Building and Safety Division at (916) 727-4760 for further information.
A homeowner, their agent, and/or contractors licensed by the State of California can obtain building permits. It is recommended that a licensed contractor conduct work on your project. You can research information on any contractor by logging onto the Contractors Licensing Board's Web site or you may contact them at (800) 321-CSLB (2752).
Permit Extensions/Renewals
A building permit is valid for two (2) years from date of issuance. If your project did not receive an inspection prior to the expiration of the permit, you may request a one-time extension of an additional 180 days. To keep the permit active beyond the 180-day expiration timeline, the applicant must request for a permit extension prior to the expiration.
A permit extension may be granted, on a one-time basis only, subject to the approval from the chief building official. This request must be from the permittee in writing indicating the permit number, address and reason for the extension.
If your building permit has expired beyond your one-time extension and your project has not been finaled, you will be required to open a new permit.
Stop Work Orders
If you have received a stop work order, you should immediately contact the Building and Safety Division to clear the order.
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