Building Permit Process

This page offers key information to understand what to consider when applying for a building permit.

3/25/20266 min read

Getting Started: What You Need to Know

Initially, the Building Department shall verify that the contractor holds a valid and active state license. It will also ensure that the license corresponds with the appropriate classification suitable for the scope of work to be performed. Additionally, the contractor may be required to obtain a business license from the local city or county authorities before commencing any work.

If an employee or authorized agent of the contractor is responsible for acquiring the building permit, they must be duly authorized by the contractor. This authorization can be demonstrated by presenting an official letter to the building department. The authorization letter must be on the contractor’s letterhead and duly signed by the contractor, and submitted to the Building Department.

Furthermore, the Building Department conducts a review of workers' compensation insurance requirements, which are accessible through the state contractor’s license database. Exceptions may apply when the contractor is the company's sole employee, with no other workers.

Owner-builder Permit

For property owners submitting building permit applications, the Building Department shall verify ownership through its database, which is linked to the county assessor's or recorder's office. Proof of ownership may be required, particularly when the property was recently purchased, and the ownership details are not yet reflected in the database. Such proof may include a recent property tax statement or a granted deed. Check with their local Building Department to determine the specific documentation required.

In California, property owners must also submit an owner-builder declaration form when applying for building permits. This form details laws concerning workers' compensation insurance, restrictions on property sales, and the employment of licensed contractors, among other stipulations. Authorized agents acting on behalf of property owners are also required to complete relevant sections of the owner-builder form, which may include providing a copy of the property owner's driver’s license or a notarized declaration at the time of application.

Upon determining whether the property owner or the contractor will obtain the building permit and who will carry out the work, a duly completed building permit application must be submitted for all works requiring a permit.

Coordinate Efficiently With the Building Department

Before submitting permit documents, the building department recommends using virtual meeting platforms that allow screen sharing. This way, both parties can thoroughly review the complete documents before submission. Virtual shared-screen meetings also benefit those involved in plan design, as they can seek a preliminary review before permit submission. Furthermore, it is recommended to request a virtual pre-inspection with the building department beforehand to clarify or examine potential field inspection challenges that may arise during construction. This proactive approach can help reduce or eliminate field corrections, which often cause project delays.

Additionally, take advantage of online permit portals provided by agencies by creating an account. These portals enable users to submit building permits and digital plans, schedule inspections, view inspection timeframes, access inspectors' project notes, and review all public property records. Such records include permit information from various agencies, like current and previous building permits, zoning permits, encroachment permits, and other related permits. It is also possible to view current and historic violations on properties through these platforms. This capability can be a valuable resource for individuals conducting research before purchasing a property or applying for building permits.

Nevertheless, it is important to note that these platforms are not always available on the local agency's website. One can request historic permitting information through public records laws, whether purchasing a property or submitting permit applications. Conducting thorough property research in advance is advantageous, as unresolved violations may affect permit acquisition, and a new property owner might inherit existing violations. Therefore, it is prudent to research properties before submitting permit applications or to contact the local building department for further information.

Building Permit Fees

When considering additional items, it is prudent to request an estimate of building permit fees from your local building department in advance. Most public department fees are calculated based on the construction project's valuation. In essence, smaller projects incur lower permit fees, while larger projects attract higher fees. Development impact fees, such as those imposed for police, fire, traffic, sewer, and other infrastructure, can also be substantial. These fees can significantly influence the overall project cost; therefore, it is advisable to consult with the building department regarding the applicability of development impact fees when proposing a new structure, an addition, or substantial improvements to an existing building. Various agencies collaborate with the building department to facilitate project reviews and permitting processes.

Coordinating With Other Agencies

Additionally, the construction of apartments frequently functions as a focal point for development activities. Typically, constructing apartments involves coordinating with internal and external agencies before obtaining building permits. The following provides an outline of these agencies and examples of their projects. These agencies generally review permits, providing insight into which entities may impact your project planning. Departments primarily evaluate project feasibility with respect to land-use zoning, regulations, laws, and ordinances. They should be your initial point of contact.

Their responsibilities encompass all proposed new structures, additions, exterior modifications, conversions of existing buildings, and accessory units. A common misconception is conflating planning and building departments; however, they are distinct entities with separate functions, each with specific responsibilities.

The plan review, also known as building plan check, is a function of the building department that processes, reviews, and issues permits for all work that is not exempt from the building permit requirement.

The fire department reviews all new structures, additions, and interior improvements to existing structures, concentrating on fire suppression systems, fire access, and egress requirements. Many local fire ordinances require the installation of fire sprinklers in buildings when additions or alterations exceed certain thresholds; it is advisable to verify the fire sprinkler requirements for your project.

The public works engineering department typically reviews projects that affect public rights-of-way, such as driveways, stormwater drainage systems, and, occasionally, utility lines. They review new structures, substantial improvements, additions, conversions of existing structures, and related activities.

The environmental health department oversees various matters, including the installation of sewer and septic systems, water wells, hazardous materials storage (such as automobile repair facilities, refrigeration units, fertilizer warehouses), food service establishments (restaurants, retail stores), lodging facilities (hotels, motels, bed-and-breakfast inns), daycare and adult care facilities, juvenile correctional facilities, beauty salons, tattoo parlors, and medical facilities.

Pollution control districts also review and permit projects. This agency is generally involved in projects that release air pollutants into the atmosphere, such as the demolition of structures, the removal of gas station tanks, and the removal of spraying booths.

Utility agencies—including local sanitary, electrical, and water companies—are also engaged in these projects, which typically include new construction, additions, and significant improvements to existing buildings.

When constructing apartments, most projects are referred to the local school district, which reviews initiatives such as all new structures, usually inhabited, or additions exceeding 500 sq. ft. to existing buildings. Conversions of existing structures are also subject to review. It is advisable to consult with your local school district regarding specific requirements and exceptions related to school impact.

If residing within a homeowners association (HOA), approval from the HOA is generally required and must be submitted with your building permit application. Most municipalities and counties will not issue a permit without HOA clearance, so confirm with your local building department the procedures for obtaining HOA approval and submitting permits. These agencies are among the most commonly involved entities in building projects.

When submitting building permits for approved work, such as permits or submittals, note that recent legislation in California has delayed the enforcement of unpermitted accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for up to five years—an aspect many individuals may be unaware of. This matter will be discussed thoroughly with your building department.