How does the permit process work?

What you submit depends on the size and location of your project. Some common items include: 

• Plans/Drawings: architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. 
• Structural and/or energy calculations
• Specifications: Documents that describe the materials and methods.  
• Other: Letters of approval, environmental studies, traffic studies, etc. 

Building and Safety is the lead agency that reviews and approves building permits. They check your plans for safety and building code compliance. They send your plans to other divisions or agencies for review. 

Planning reviews plans for new construction. They make sure that new development follows the countywide plan. They also check zoning ordinances. 

Public Works reviews permits for projects that impact the public right-of-way. These are things like street improvements and utility installations. They also check for grading and drainage issues. 

Fire Department reviews permits for fire safety. 

Environmental Health reviews permits related to septic systems, well water, and food service. 

The parties involved will vary depending on the type of project and the location of the project.

Yes. Plan review starts when you pay your submittal deposit and application fee.  

The initial plan review fee is a portion of what we call the Application Fee. It covers your Building & Safety plan review and a Planning Division zoning review.   

 In most cases, the plan review fee is non-refundable, even if your plans are not approved.  

Some common types of corrections include: 

• Issues of completeness. The review process can stall if you provide incomplete information. 
• Modifications to meet zoning ordinances, building codes, fire codes, and environmental regulations. 
• Correction of project dimensions. Building material changes. Building method changes. 
• Sometimes we may need to ask for information about neighboring properties.   
• Sometimes we need to review plans for public infrastructure. 

We will issue a plan review report for needed corrections or clarifications. The report should help you make the corrections and resubmit your plans for review. 

We give you a construction permit when we finish the review, and after we confirm that all approvals, documentation, and fee payments are in good shape. Your permit will specify the conditions for the construction process.

• A blank inspection card listing inspection codes. Inspectors sign this to show you passed. 
• A list of “holds.” Special requirements unique to your permit. 
• Plans and supporting documents showing our approval stamp 
• Your “job card.” You post this card at your job site so neighbors know your work is approved. Inspectors driving by also look for this card. 

Your permit expires in 1 year. If your job show progress as verified by inspection, the permit expiration extends by 1 year. Passing any inspection counts as progress.