When a Permit is Required
A permit is required for projects such as new construction, remodeling, and repairs to electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems.
Projects that require a permit
Typical projects include, but are not limited to:
- New homes and buildings
- Room additions and patios
- Enclosures and carports
- Decks and patio covers
- Garage conversions
- Landscape irrigation
- Retaining walls *
- Water services
- Sewer services
- Signs
- Signs
- Water heaters
- Fences *
- Fireplaces and fireplace inserts
- Skylights
- Sheds *
- Shower/tub enclosure replacements
- Swimming pools and spas
- Re-roofing
- Ceiling fan
Projects that do not require a permit*
Unless within a design review or preservation district (or a historic landmark), a building permit is not required for:
- One story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, etc., providing the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.
- Fences, other than masonry walls, under six feet in height.
- Retaining walls not over four feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
- Platforms, walkways, and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over any basement or story below.
- Painting, papering, and similar finish work.
* Approval may be required for historic properties, regardless of permit requirements
If the project is within a historic district, or involves a landmark property, a Certificate of Appropriateness from the City Preservation Office may still be required, whether or not it needs a building permit. First check your address to see if you are within such a district, or is registered as a historic landmark. If so, please contact the Help Line at 916-808-5656, or visit the Permit Counter for further assistance.
If work is done to a historic property without appropriate approval, the property owner may be cited with a correction notice and charged a penalty. Also, except in special circumstances, the building permit application process cannot proceed until the Certificate of Appropriateness is issued.
When is a permit complete?
A permit is considered complete when it passes the final inspection.
What if a permit expires?
Generally, a permit expires after 180 days if no inspections have been made. If the permit expires before the final inspection, the project is in violation of the California State Building Code. If this occurs, please call the Help Line at 916-808-5656 or come in to the Permit Counter. City staff will work with the applicant to reactivate or re-apply for the permit.