Permits Involving Plans

Notice regarding plan review times: Due to a high volume of applications and staff vacancies, the times frame for initial plan review is currently longer than normal. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we seek additional staff support. 

A project requires plans when it is necessary to provide a greater level of detail to demonstrate compliance with adopted codes and ordinances (for more information, review a Checklist of Daly City's Plan Notes (PDF)). Building projects requiring plans include:

  • Additions
  • Remodeling involving:
    • Adding habitable space in garages
    • Moving walls
    • Patio covers and decks
    • Retaining walls

In general, plans do not need to be prepared by and architect or engineer, but they must be of sufficient quality to show the scope and nature of the work. Handouts regarding specific information to include on residential and commercial projects are available at the Building Division and on the Residential Additions Guidelines and Guide to Commercial Tenant Improvement pages.

Residential Plan Submittal Requirements

Daly City has a policy regarding information that is required to be accurately shown on all plans submitted for review. Designers shall be required to insert notes and dimensions on the plans whenever the component is altered or added as part of the permit; learn more about the notes and dimension specifications by reviewing the Residential Plan Submittal Requirements (PDF).

Plan Review

Initially submitted plans are generally reviewed within fifteen working days. The plan reviewer will either approve the plans or provide plan check comments. If plans are approved, fees will be calculated and permits will be ready to issue.

If plans are not approved, they will need to be revised to address specific plan check comments, and must be resubmitted. In either case, written notification will be provided. Resubmitted plans are generally reviewed within fifteen working days.