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1. When is a building permit required?

According to the California Building Code, as adopted by the City of Daly City, a permit is required to undertake any of the following actions regarding any building or structure in Daly City:

• Alter
• Construct
• Convert
• Demolish
• Enlarge
• Erect
• Improve
• Move
• Remove
• Repair

Examples

Examples of buildings, structures, or activities that require a permit include:

• Accessory buildings over 120 square feet
• Additions
• All types of plumbing, mechanical and electrical installations, including fixture replacement and installation
• Garage, or construction of rooms therein (including secondary units)
• Gas piping and gas appliance installation (including water heater and furnace replacement)
• Kitchen or bathroom remodel
• Lawn sprinkler installations
• Patio enclosures and decks
• Porch enclosures
• Replacement of:
  • Furnace
  • Garage door
  • Roof
  • Siding
  • Water heater
  • Windows
• Retaining walls

Contact City Divisions

Even when permits are not required, there are very specific location and setback requirements. It is always a good idea to check with the Building Division and Planning Division first.

2. When are building plans required?

Plans are required for any new construction or when you add to, alter or repair existing structures. Structures include:

• Decks
• Patio/porch enclosures
• Retaining walls
• Rooms
• Stairways

Many home maintenance projects (e.g., water heater, furnace and window replacement, re-roofing, and siding) which can be described on the permit application may be issued without plans. Replacing or adding a sink, toilet or bathroom vanity requires a plumbing permit.

By permitting and inspecting construction work, the Building Division assures the work is done correctly, in accordance with the code, and the health and life safety of Daly City citizens is protected.

3. How do I apply for a Building Permit?

Normally, you may apply in person at the Building Division located on the second floor of City Hall. Staff is available to assist you Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (Wednesdays from 9 am to 5 pm). Permits may be issued to the property owner or any contractor licensed by the state and in possession of a valid Daly City Business License.

Shelter-in-Place Permit Applications & Resubmittals

To submit an application for new permits or resubmittals, email the Building Division the following:

1. Scanned PDF of your Permit Application (PDF)
2. Scanned PDF of your Credit Card Authorization (PDF)
3. Provide any other supporting documentation; e.g., electronic PDF files of your drawings/plans, calculations, etc., as necessary. You may also provide us with a downloadable link to a digital cloud-based storage service to retrieve your files.

For More Information

For more information, please contact the Building Division by calling 650-991-8061 or email.

4. May I do the work myself?

Depending on the nature of the work or improvements planned, a homeowner may obtain a homeowner-builder permit; per state law, a licensed contractor is required when the total labor and material cost of the proposed project is $500 or more.

Before an owner-builder permit may be issued, a Disclosures and Forms for Owner-Builders Applying for Construction Permit Form (PDF) is required to be completed and signed by the registered property owner. To assure the work is done safely and according to applicable building codes, staff will review the application with you and provide an opportunity to demonstrate your construction knowledge for your planned project.

Keep in mind, as an owner-builder, you assume full responsibility for all phases of your project and its integrity. You are also responsible for workers compensation insurance and payroll taxes for anyone you may hire to help.

For More Information

For more information, email the Building Division or call 650-991-8061.

5. After I get a Building Permit, am I finished?

No! As important as it is to have your permit, it is equally important to make sure all your required inspections are made and your construction work is approved and finalized. You must schedule inspections at certain stages of the project and a final inspection after the work has been completed. The inspection process ensures your work, or your contractor’s work, is done safely and in accordance with current California building codes.

It is the responsibility of the person doing the work to call for, arrange access, and obtain a final inspection. To schedule an inspection, call 650 991-8061 before two working days before the desired date and have your permit number available.

Upon successful completion of a final inspection, the Building Inspector will sign your permit job card. The signed permit job card is your record of permitted work completion.