When is a Permit Required?
A permit is required for projects such as new construction, additions, remodeling, and repairs to electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems. Examples include:
- New homes and buildings
- Room additions
- Enclosures and carports
- Decks and patio covers
- Garage conversions
- Landscape irrigation
- Retaining walls
- Window replacements
- Water services
- Sewer services
- Signs
- Water heaters
- Fences
- Fireplaces and fireplace inserts
- Skylights
- Sheds
- Shower/tub enclosure replacements
- Swimming pools and spas
- Re-roofing
- Siding
- Ceiling fans
How to Obtain a permit?
- Online Minor Permits: If you are a California licensed contractor, certain minor permits are available online.
- Electronic Plan Check: Submit your project through our Electronic Plan Check program.
- Public Counter: Visit the public counter for permit services.
When a Permit is Not Required?
A permit is not required in some cases. The following is a list of work exempt* from a permit:
- One-story detached accessory structures, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet.
- Fences not over 7 feet high.
- Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
- Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity is not greater than 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.
- Sidewalks and driveways.1
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.2
- Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 18 inches deep.
- Swings and other playground equipment.
- Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
- Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by Section R311.2 of the California Residential Code.
* Unless within a design review or preservation district (or a historic landmark).
1 Permits and approval from other City departments may be required.
2 Related work may require a building permit, such as relocating electrical fixtures to accommodate new cabinets or counters.
Return to the main Permit Services page.