What Are Permits?

Permits help to ensure that all codes are properly followed in your neighborhoods. A Permit is a written communication authorizing work to be done. If work is done without permits, you can jeopardize your chances of obtaining financing and create problems when you sell your property.

There are several different types of permits, based on the type of construction: building (for architectural and structural work), electrical, plumbing and mechanical.

Applying for the permits is the first step. You may need to submit construction drawings for plan check review that include a plot plan of your property showing existing and proposed improvements. There are many handouts to help you through this process.

Once your plans are approved, you are required to build the project according to those plans. If any changes are made to the plans, they must be made with the City's approval.

Do Permits Expire?

Permits expire after 180 days if no inspections have been made. If a permit expires before the final inspection, we will help you to reactivate your permit or apply for another. Our objective is to see your project completed with the final inspection.

What if You Do Not Get a Permit?

If a permit is required and not obtained prior to the start of construction, you have violated City codes and regulations and are subject to fines and penalties.

The  City's Community Preservation Division enforces codes on already-built structures. Their telephone number is (714) 667-2780.

Who Can Get A Permit?

Permits can be issued to a homeowner, owner of the building or their agent, or a licensed contractor. If a contractor is obtaining the permits, the contractor must show a copy of their State Contractor's License, proof of Workman's Compensation (if they have employees), and all contractors working in the City of Santa Ana are required to have a Santa Ana business license.

When Is A Permit Required?

Most projects will require a permit of some kind. This is necessary to ensure that all buildings meet minimum standards that protect its occupants and neighbors.

• Building Permits: are required when you build something new, enlarge, alter, remove, demolish or repair a structure. This also includes tenant improvements, signs, reroofing, and restuccoing.
  
• Electrical Permits: are required for the installation of a new service meter, upgrade, or relocation, new circuits, appliances as well as low voltage signaling and communications.
  
• Plumbing Permits: are required for installation, removal, alteration, or replacement of any plumbing fixture, gas, water or drainage piping work or water heaters.
  
• Mechanical Permits: are required for the installation or repair of any heating, cooling, ventilating, or refrigeration systems.

When Is A Permit Not Required?

There are a few things you can do that do not require a permit; examples are: painting, construction of a one-story detached accessory structure (not to exceed 120 square feet) used as tool shed or playhouse, and window awnings. Please call the permit counter at (714) 647-5800 to see if your project requires a permit.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Permit?

Permit issuance varies from project to project. Some permits can be issued over the counter such as for water heater change outs, service meter upgrades, minor reroofs, restucco, patio covers and swimming pools. Other projects may require that plans be left for additional review.

Other Agency approvals such as Planning, Public Works, Fire, and Police may be required. The Permit Counter will let you know at the time plans are submitted which of these reviews will be required.

How Much Does A Permit Cost?

Building permit fees vary according to the type and size of construction. General building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. Please call the Permit Counter at (714) 647-5800 for building permit fee information. Itemized fees are charged for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits. Those fees can be found directly on the corresponding application.

Who May Do The Work?

As a homeowner, you may do all of the work yourself. If you hire anyone, you may be required to purchase Workers' Compensation Insurance. If you are not hiring anyone, we will ask you to sign an "Owner-Builder Statement". We cannot issue you a permit without either proof of compensation insurance or a completed "Owner-Builder Statement".

Who May Draw The Plans?

Plans for projects such as room additions usually can be drawn up by qualified individuals such as a draftsperson. Other projects may require plans prepared and signed by an architect or engineer licensed by the State of California. 

For patio covers and garages, the City has standard plans that you may follow. This standard plan is then attached to your plot plan.

When Are Inspections Required?

As the owner, it is your responsibility to call us for inspections at specific times during construction. You may have your contractor request the inspection, but it is still the responsibility of the property owner to insure that inspections are requested in a timely manner.

What Codes Are Enforced?

              2001 California Building Code

              2004 California Electrical Code

              2001 California Plumbing Code

              2001 California Mechanical Code

Important notice regarding new codes effective January 1, 2008!