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FAQ Topic: Permit FAQS

What Codes Are Enforced?

2019 California Building Code 2019 California Residential Code 2019 California Electrical Code 2019 California Plumbing Code 2019 California Mechanical Code 2019 California Green Building Standards Code City of Santa Ana Municipal Code Requirements

Do Permits Expire?

Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The building official … 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.

Who Requests the Inspections?

It shall be the duty of the holder of the building permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the building official when work is ready for inspection.  It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for inspections of such work that a required by this code.

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

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 Can Obtain a Permit?

Many types of permits may be issued to the owner of the property or authorized agent, or to a licensed contractor. Photovoltaic (Solar) permits shall only be issued to a licensed contractor. The appropriately licensed contractor must provide proof of licensing, available for verification through the California Contractors State Licensing Board and the contractor must obtain a … Continued

When is a Permit NOT Required?

Work exempt from permit includes the following: One story detached accessory structures used as a tool or storage shed, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet. Fences not over seven (7) feet high (A front-yard fence permit is required from the Planning Division for fences located in the front yard) Oil … Continued

When is a Permit Required?

Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by code, or to cause any such work … Continued

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