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Heavy rain is forecast November 14-16. Free sandbags are available for Santa Ana residents and businesses. Learn more.

Archives: FAQs

How Much Does a Permit Cost?

Building permit fees vary according to the scope of work. Please call the Permit Counter at (714) 647-5800 for building permit fee information.  Itemized fees are charged for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.  These fees can be found directly on the corresponding application.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Permit?

Some permits can be issued same day, over-the-counter such as: simple water heater change outs, residential service meter upgrades, minor reroofs, restucco, patio covers and swimming pools. Other projects may require that plans be submitted for plan review. Other Agency approvals such as Planning, Public Works, Fire, Police, and the Health Department may be required. … Continued

Who May Draw the Plans?

Plans for projects such as room additions usually can be drawn by qualified individuals such as a draftsperson. Larger projects may require plans to be 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 … Continued

When Are Inspections Required?

Inspections are required at various times during the course of construction, depending on the scope of work.  Please see the attached handout for more information on what work must be completed at each point in the inspections process.

What if I get an electronic virus?

All equipment provided is guaranteed to be 100% virus free when delivered to you. If you get a virus while using the laptop simply reboot the unit and that will eliminate the virus. Be careful to save anything that you’ve created on the laptop as that will also be erased.

Why are some of the laptops not able to be borrowed?

A laptop cannot be borrowed while it is in charging mode or if one was reported damaged. Charging laptops will show up as yellow on the kiosk screen. Damaged devices will show up as yellow with a wrench icon. Damaged devices will be repaired and replaced as soon as possible.

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