How to Apply
Most building permit applications may be submitted online through the City's permit portal, or in person at the Building Division counter at City Hall. The following materials are required with all permit applications:
- Completed permit application form
- Two (2) sets of construction plans (required for all structural work)
- Site plan showing property lines, existing structures, and proposed work
- Contractor's license number and insurance certificate (for contractor-pulled permits)
- Owner-builder declaration (if owner is acting as general contractor)
Online Permit Portal
Many over-the-counter permits — including water heaters, furnaces, reroofs, and window replacements — may be applied for and approved same-day through the City's online portal. Larger projects requiring plan check must be submitted in person or uploaded through the portal and reviewed within the standard plan check timeframe.
Permit Types & Fees
| Permit Type | Plan Check | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| New Single-Family Residence | Required | 4–6 weeks |
| Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) | Required | 3–4 weeks (ministerial) |
| Room Addition | Required | 3–4 weeks |
| Tenant Improvement / Interior Remodel | Required | 2–3 weeks |
| New Commercial / Industrial Building | Required | 6–10 weeks |
| Roofing (over 50% of surface) | OTC | Same day |
| Water Heater Replacement | OTC | Same day |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | OTC | Same day |
| HVAC Replacement | OTC | Same day |
| Pool / Spa | Required | 3–5 weeks |
| Solar Photovoltaic System | OTC (online) | Same day |
| EV Charging Station (residential) | OTC | Same day |
Permit fees are calculated based on valuation of the proposed construction using the ICC Building Valuation Data table. The fee schedule is available from the Building Division and on the City's website.
Track Your Permit
Permit applicants may check application and plan check status online through the City's permit portal using the permit number provided at time of application. Questions about plan check corrections or permit conditions may be directed to the assigned plan checker listed in the portal.
Inspections
Inspections may be requested online, by phone, or through the permit portal. Requests submitted before 4:00 PM will be scheduled for the following business day. Inspections are conducted in the AM (8–12) or PM (12–4) window; specific times cannot be guaranteed.
Work must not be covered or concealed prior to the required inspection. The approved plans and permit card must be on site and accessible to the inspector at all times during construction.
Common Required Inspections
Foundation (prior to pour) → Frame (rough framing, rough electrical/plumbing/mechanical) → Insulation → Drywall → Final (all work complete). Additional inspections may be required based on the scope of work.
Permit Exemptions
Pursuant to California Building Code Section 105.2, the following work is generally exempt from permit requirements. An exemption from the permit requirement does not exempt the work from applicable code standards.
- One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds with floor area not exceeding 120 square feet
- Fences not over 7 feet high (note: zoning standards for fences still apply)
- Retaining walls not over 4 feet in height measured from bottom of footing
- Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade
- Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, and similar finish work
When in doubt, contact the Building Division before beginning work to confirm whether a permit is required.