Building Permits

Building Permits


Building permits are the way the City regulates construction to ensure that it is safe for occupancy or use. This is done through the review of plans and periodic inspections to verify compliance with the current California Building Code and local regulations. Every permit requires a building inspection.

How to Obtain a Building Permit

 
New building permits can be requested online at Fremont.gov/CitizenAccess.
For more information, please visit the City's Online Permits webpage.

On Citizen Access, take the following steps:

  • Create a Citizen Access account.
  • Log in to your account.
  • Select "Apply for a Permit" and "Building." If you are not sure which type of building permit you will need, find descriptions at Fremont.gov/CitizenAccessRecordTypes.
  • Complete the online form and upload plans/documents.
  • Continue the form to the payment screens.
  • Make a payment and receive on-screen confirmation.
After your permit request is successfully submitted, you will see the new record number in your Citizen Access account under “My Records.” The new request will be reviewed by staff to determine if enough information has been provided/uploaded to route it for review. If necessary information is missing to enable routing of the request for plan review, you will be contacted via email with a list of information that is necessary in order to initiate the review. If you applied for a Residential Express Permit, it will automatically be issued (see below.

To learn more about Citizen Access and how to use it, please view the following:
If you need additional assistance submitting your permit request, please send staff an email or contact Plans and Permits at 510-494-4460.

Residential Express Permits


Residential Express Permits are available online through Citizen Access for basic home upgrades like installing a new water heater, roof, and air conditioning. View the steps for obtaining these types of building permits. These permits are automatically issued.

Common Building Permits

Permit Fees


For fee information, see the Fee Schedules.

Coordinating with Other Agencies


To assist you in obtaining your permits, coordination with outside agencies may be necessary. Visit our Agency Coordination List for the contact information of these different agencies.

Other Resources

California Green Building Standards


New green standards are in effect. See Recycling Requirements for Construction & Demolition Projects.

Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Projects for residential dwelling units with a valuation of $1,000 or greater require verification of smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors. Please contact the Inspection Division at 510-494-4400 for detector requirements for your project.

Accela Citizen Access

Citizen Access Online Permitting Portal


  • Submit a permit request for planning, building, fire, solar, and engineering permits.
  • Pay permit fees.
  • Look up permitting information on a specific property.
  • Check on the status of a permit.
  • Request a building inspection.
  • Submit a concern to Code Enforcement.
  • Visit Fremont.gov/Citizen Access to get started.