San Diego Building Permit Guide

Thinking about building or renovating in San Diego, California? You’ll need the right permits before you start. This guide will help you understand San Diego’s permitting process so you can keep your project on track and avoid costly headaches down the road.

Simplify permitting in San Diego with PermitFlow. Learn more.

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What requires a building permit in San Diego?

A San Diego building permit is your official green light to start construction. Why do you need one? A building permit confirms your project follows safety codes and zoning rules. 

In San Diego, you’ll need a permit for most construction and renovation work. 

Examples include:

• New construction: Creating new residential or commercial structures
• Additions and remodels: Expanding existing buildings or altering interior layouts
• Structural changes: Modifying load-bearing walls, foundations, or roof structures
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work: Installing or upgrading HVAC systems, electrical wiring, or plumbing fixtures
• Accessory structures: Building detached garages, sheds, or carports exceeding 120 square feet
• Swimming pools and spas: Installing in-ground or above-ground pools and hot tubs
• Fences: Constructing new fences over 7 feet tall or replacing more than 50% of an existing fence
• Retaining walls: Building any retaining wall (walls over three feet require engineered plans)
• Demolitions: Removing structures or significant portions thereof
• Fire protection systems: Installing or modifying fire alarms, sprinkler systems, or other fire safety equipment

For a full list and specific requirements, consult the City of San Diego’s Development Services Department.

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What can a homeowner do without a permit in San Diego?

• Cosmetic upgrades: Painting, wallpapering, and floor coverings
• Minor repairs: Replacing faucets, light fixtures, or appliances without altering plumbing or electrical systems
• Landscaping: Planting trees, shrubs, or gardens that don’t involve structural changes
• Minor electrical work: Replacing plugs, switches, or light fixtures without changes to wiring
• Plumbing repairs: Fixing minor leaks without removing, replacing, or relocating piping

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San Diego building permit costs & fines

San Diego typically charges one fee to review plans and one to issue a permit. Below is a summary of fees for common residential and commercial projects.

Residential:

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Commercial:

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MEP permit fees

Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing projects aren’t subject to plan review fees, but do require you to pay a flat-rate permit fee.

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Issuance fees

Aside from the fee you pay to have your plans reviewed and your permit issued, you’ll likely be subject to other fees upon receiving your permit. 

These may include:

• Inspection fee
• Construction and Demolition (C&D) Debris Recycling Deposit
• Lead Hazard Prevention & Control fee
• California State/Seismic fee
• California Building Standards fee
• County Water Authority capacity fee
• School fees/deposits
• Impact fees
• Water & Sewer Plan Check fees
• Water & Sewer Capacity fees
• Water & Sewer Installation fees
• Storm Water High Priority & Areas of Special Biological Significance (ASBS) Inspection fee

Exact fee amounts vary based on project valuation and other factors. To access all relevant fee schedules, visit the city’s Fee Schedule for Construction Permits page.

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Penalties for non-compliance

Failing to obtain necessary permits can lead to significant issues, including project delays or even complete cancellation. 

Potential consequences for beginning work without proper permits include:

• Stop work orders: Immediate suspension of all construction activities
• Fines: Financial penalties assessed for each violation
• Legal action: Potential court proceedings for serious infractions

To avoid these issues, always have the appropriate permits before beginning any construction project.

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How long do building permits last in San Diego?

A San Diego building permit is valid for two years. If work doesn’t begin within two years, the permit will expire. Once work begins, it must be completed within three years.

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How to get a building permit in San Diego

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Step 1: Determine permit requirements

Before starting your project, clearly identify its scope and determine if a building permit is required. You can review the list of projects that require permits by visiting the City's Building Permit Page. 

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Step 2: Prepare your application

Gather all necessary documentation, which includes:

• Building construction plans
• Site plan
• Structural calculations
• Energy compliance forms
• Stormwater requirements checklist
• Owner-builder verification form (DS-3042)
• Project contact information form (DS-345)
• Hazardous materials questionnaire (HM-9171)

Check within the Project Submittal Manual to see if all documents comply with the City’s submittal requirements.

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Step 3: Submit your application

You can submit an application via the Accela Citizen Access Portal. If any information is missing or requires clarification, you’ll be notified to make the necessary adjustments.​

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Step 4: Plan review

At this stage, several departments assess your plans for compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and other applicable standards. The review timeline can vary based on the project's complexity.​ Some projects will be approved within a couple days, while others can take weeks or even months. 

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Step 5: Permit issuance

Upon successful review and approval, you’ll be notified of the permit issuance. At this point, you are required to pay the associated permit fees. Once payment is confirmed, your permit will be issued, which means you can start the project.​

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Step 6: Inspections

Inspections are mandatory at various stages to see if your project complies with approved plans and safety standards. You can schedule inspections through the Accela Citizen Access Portal.​

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San Diego permitting resources

For assistance and more information, please refer to the following resources:

• Development services department
  
  
  • Address: 1222 First Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
  • Phone: 619-446-5000
  • Email: Contact Form 
  • Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 AM - 4 PM

Accela citizen access portal

• Submit applications, schedule inspections, and check permit status​

Fee schedule for construction permits

• View detailed fee information

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If your company has just started taking on projects in San Diego, it can be overwhelming to learn the city’s permitting requirements. Instead of handling it yourself or hiring a San Diego permit expediter, use PermitFlow.

PermitFlow is easy-to-use permit management software that takes the hassle out of researching requirements, preparing an application, and submitting plans for approval. With PermitFlow, you’ll save time and shrink your permitting timelines.

We take the headache out of permits by:​

• Guiding you with local expertise (our team knows San Diego’s requirements inside and out)
• Keeping all your permits in one easy-to-track system
• Getting you approved faster by avoiding common mistakes and keeping communication flowing

Why let permitting slow down your project? Reach out to PermitFlow today, and let’s get your projects in San Diego and beyond moving.