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1. When do I need a permit?

Building Permits are required before you erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish any building or structure. See Section 106.2 of the California Building Code for further exemptions. The link below provides a summary of the exemptions. Exemption from the permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of any County code or ordinance. Please call us if you have any questions 925-674-7200.

Construction Work NOT requiring a Building Permit

2. Where are the Building Permit Offices located?

Please visit one of our offices to have your plans reviewed and permit issued.
Permit Office Locations and Hours

3. Who may obtain a building permit?

Permits may be issued only to property owners, licensed contractors, long-term lessees or their certified agents.

4. How long does it take to get a permit?

That depends on the scope of the work. Permits that can be issued by fax or mail are generally issued on the same day.

Some projects require approval either by the County Planning Division or City Planning Department and other agencies before the Building Inspection Division can proceed with the plan review. Then depending on the scope of the project, it may take anywhere from one day to several weeks depending on the amount of structural and non-structural review required.

Minor projects that are usually issued either that day or the next day are:

• Minor in-kind repairs due to damage caused by fire, termites, or deterioration
• Minor interior alterations with no structural work
• Plumbing, mechanical, or electrical repairs, change-outs, or alterations
• Mobile homes

Major Projects that may take up to several weeks to review are:

• Changes in building use or occupancy
• Major additions (greater than 50 percent of the existing structure)
• Major structural work (seismic upgrades, major repairs, etc.)
• Major tenant improvements
• New residences in subdivisions with established master plans
• Compliance with Title 24 energy documentation requirements

5. How can a permit be obtained for a water heater that was replaced over the weekend, due to an emergency?

A permit may be obtained for a replaced water heater after it has been installed in emergency situations. Normally, a water heater will only require a final inspection. Please call us for more information 925-674-7200.

6. How do I get building records / plans for my residence?

To request a Records Research, please  download the Records Request form or call 925-674-7213 to request the form. The completed form can be emailed to the Records division or faxed in to 925-674-7244. All requests for plan copies must have permission from the owner and licensed professional before they may be reproduced.

Download Records Research Request