What are the current adopted Building Codes used by the City?
The 2016 edition of the California Building Code (CBC) adopts the 2015 International Building Code (IBC) and the 2016 California Amendments.
The 2016 edition of the California Electrical Code (CEC) adopts the 2014 National Electrical Code (NEC) and the 2016 California Amendments.
The 2016 edition of the California Mechanical Code (CMC) adopts the 2015 Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC) and the 2016 California Amendments.
The 2016 edition of the California Plumbing Code (CPC) adopts the 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and the 2016 California Amendments.
The 2016 edition of the California Fire Code (CFC) adopts the 2015 Uniform Fire Code (UFC) and the 2016 California Amendments.
The 2016 edition of the California Energy Efficiency Standards.
How do I schedule a building inspection?
After a Building Permit is obtained, you can schedule an inspection by calling (619) 258-4100 ext. 149, and leaving a message. For inspection requests received before 4 p.m., the inspection will be scheduled for the next business day unless you request a different day in your message. Inspection requests made on weekend days will be scheduled on the following Tuesday. Building inspections are performed Monday through Friday, including the Friday afternoons that City Hall is closed.
How long does it take, and where do I get a Building Permit?
Some minor projects can be approved after a short plan check at the Development Services public counter. Minor permits include water heaters, air conditioning units, and other electrical and mechanical permits. All other projects are taken in for plan check and typically are reviewed within 10 working days. Contact Building Division (Extension 154) to determine if your project qualifies for an over-the-counter review.
Who can prepare plans for a Building Permit?
Any qualified individual, such as a drafter, building designer, architect or engineer, can prepare plans for a new residence, a home addition, or a home remodel project and commercial tenant improvement projects. However, if the project involves anything other than conventional type construction, as defined in the CBC (contact the Building Division for details), an architect or structural engineer may need to prepare the plans.
What are the fees?
Fees will vary with the size and scope of the project. There is both Building Plan check and Building Permit fees. Please contact the Building Division, (619) 258-4100, ext. 154 or 155, for project specific estimates.
Is any other type of special information required for a Building Permit?
Other types of special information that may be required are:
Mechanical, electrical and plumbing fixture counts for plan check submittals
Structural calculations
Energy Compliance Forms, truss calculations (i.e., Title 24 calculations)
Soils reports
Building plans should provide all the information necessary so the City can determine if the project complies with all City standards. It is your responsibility to have the plans prepared. The degree of information needed in a set of plans is dependent on the scale of the project. Check with the Building Division for circumstances under which special information may be needed for a Building Permit.
Who is authorized to obtain a Building Permit?
Licensed contractors
Property owner/s
Agents for licensed contractors (with a letter of authorization)
Agents for the property owner/s
If a licensed contractor or their agent is not obtaining the Building Permit, the property owner/s must fill out an Owner/Builder Verification. An owner must provide a valid identification when turning in an Owner/Builder form or a notarized letter must be provided by their agent.
What doesn't need a Building Permit?
Many repairs and improvements may be performed without the need to obtain a building permit. Learn more.
For my residential project, how many sets of plans and copies of information do I need to submit?
Patio covers and decks:
Two sets of plans
One additional site plan
Home additions under 500 square feet and remodels:
Three sets of plans
Two sets of structural and energy use calculations and one copy of the soils report and truss calculations (if applicable)
New residences, additions of over 500 square feet, and commercial projects:
Five sets of plans
Two sets of structural and energy use calculations and one copy of the soils report and truss calculations (if applicable)
NOTE: You may need approval from Padre Dam Municipal Water District before submitting plans to Building Services. You can call (619) 258-4539 or (619) 258-4635 to schedule an appointment. Padre Dam Municipal Water District's office hours are 9am ' 4:30pm Monday ' Thursday (closed for lunch 12noon-1pm) and 8am ' 12noon Friday.
How long is my Building Permit valid?
A Building Permit is valid for 180 days after it is issued. In order to keep the permit current past 180 days, regularly scheduled inspections should be conducted, at least once within six months. If you allow your Building Permit to expire, additional fees are required to activate the permit.
