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 through the City's Citizen Access portal. Once on the website, take the following steps:

Create a Citizen Access account.
Log in to your account.
Select "Pre-Application."
Complete the form and upload the building permit application and other supporting documentation.
Continue the request until you receive the online confirmation.

To learn more about Citizen Access and how to use it, please view the City's Citizen Access FAQs. If you need additional assistance submitting your permit request, please send staff an email.

After a permit request is received, it will be converted to a standard permit. The applicant will see this standard permit in their Citizen Access account under “My Records.” City staff will then follow up with the applicant with questions about the request, a list of missing submittal documents, if any, the plan review fee/deposit, and methods of payment. Once payment is received, the request will be processed for review.

For more information, please visit the City's Online Permits webpage or contact Plans and Permits by email or at 510-494-4460.