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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.
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.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.
- Do I need a permit for a storage shed, playhouse, etc.?
- What are the requirements for carbon monoxide detectors?
- What are the hours that construction work is allowed to take place?
- Is a permit required to build a fence? If so, what inspections are required?
- How can I legalize an addition that was never permitted?
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