Where to Get a Construction Permit in California — The Complete Local Guide

Confirm Whether Your Property Is Inside City Limits

This step is often overlooked, but it matters.

Two homes on the same street can fall under different authorities.

To confirm jurisdiction:

• Check your property tax bill

• Use the county assessor’s website

• Call the city planning counter

If the property is inside city limits, apply through the city. If it is unincorporated, apply through the county. This small check can prevent weeks of delays.

Call the Permit Counter Before You Apply

Even with online systems, a short phone call helps.

Permit staff can quickly confirm:

• Which permits you need

• Whether planning approval is required first

• If your project qualifies for over-the-counter approval

This is especially helpful for remodels, ADUs, and small additions.

Most California permit offices have dedicated phone hours. Use them.

Ask Your Contractor or Design Professional

Licensed contractors, architects, and permit consultants work with the same cities repeatedly. They already know:

• Which department handles your project

• How strict the local review process is

• What reviewers usually flag

If you are working with a professional, ask them early. It can save revisions later.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Construction Permit in California

While details vary by city, the overall permit process in California follows a consistent pattern. Understanding these steps helps you plan better and avoid surprises.

Step 1: Clearly Define Your Project Scope

Before applying, be clear about what you are building or changing.

This includes:

• New construction

• Remodel or interior alteration

• Addition or expansion

• ADU or garage conversion

• Structural repair

Even small changes can trigger permit requirements in California. If you are unsure, assume a permit is required and confirm with the city.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Most California jurisdictions ask for similar documentation. Missing items are the most common cause of delays.

Typical requirements include:

• Completed permit application form

• Site plan showing property lines and structures

• Construction drawings (architectural and structural)

• Energy compliance documents (Title 24)

• Contractor license or owner-builder declaration

Some cities require digital files only. Others still accept paper sets by appointment. Always follow the city’s checklist exactly.

Step 3: Submit the Application

You will submit your application either:

• Through an online permit portal

• In person at a permit center

Large cities often use platforms like eTRAKiT or custom systems. Smaller cities may require appointments. After submission, the project enters plan review.

Step 4: Plan Review and Corrections

During plan review, different departments check your plans. This may include:

• Building and safety

• Planning and zoning

• Fire department

• Public works

You may receive correction comments. This is normal. Respond clearly and completely. Partial responses slow everything down.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Receive the Permit

Once plans are approved, fees are finalized. These can include:

• Building permit fees

• Plan review fees

• Impact or school fees

• Inspection fees

After payment, the permit is issued. Construction can now legally begin.

Inspections, Timelines, and What Happens After Your Permit Is Issued

Once your permit is approved, the process is not over. In California, permits are closely tied to inspections and final sign-off. Understanding this phase helps you avoid delays and failed inspections.

Required Inspections During Construction

California building permits require inspections at key stages of construction. These inspections confirm that the work matches the approved plans and follows state and local codes.

Common inspection stages include:

• Foundation or footing inspection

• Framing inspection

• Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical inspections

• Insulation and energy compliance checks

• Final inspection

You must schedule inspections through your city or county. Most agencies now offer online scheduling. Work should stop at each stage until the inspection is approved. Skipping inspections can lead to corrections or penalties.

Who Is Responsible for Scheduling Inspections

Responsibility depends on the project setup.

• Licensed contractors usually schedule inspections

• Owner-builders may schedule them directly

• Permit consultants can coordinate inspections if authorized

Always confirm inspection approval before moving to the next phase of work.

Final Approval and Certificate of Occupancy

After all inspections pass, the city or county issues final approval.

For new construction or major remodels, this often includes a Certificate of Occupancy. This document confirms the building is safe to use.

Without final approval:

• The project is not considered complete

• The space may not be legally occupied

• Future property transactions can be affected

Final sign-off is just as important as the permit itself.

How Long Construction Permits Take in California

Permit timelines vary widely across California. The size of the project and the city’s workload both matter.

Simple projects can move quickly. Larger developments take time.

Typical Permit Timeframes

Planning approvals, zoning issues, or incomplete plans can extend these timelines.

What Causes Permit Delays

Delays are common, but most are preventable.

Common reasons include:

• Missing or unclear drawings

• Zoning conflicts

• Incomplete Title 24 documents

• Late responses to correction comments

Clear plans and quick responses help keep reviews moving.

Common California Permit Mistakes to Avoid

Many permit issues come from simple errors. Avoiding these mistakes can save weeks of time.

Starting Work Before Permit Approval

This is one of the most costly mistakes. Cities can issue stop-work orders and require work to be removed. Always wait for the permit to be issued and posted on site.

Ignoring Planning or Zoning Requirements

Some projects need planning approval before a building permit. Skipping this step often leads to rejections and resubmittals.

Submitting Incomplete Applications

Missing documents slow everything down.

Always double-check:

• Application forms

• Plan sets

• Energy compliance reports

• Professional signatures