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Building & Safety FAQ

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Who can apply for a demolition permit?
A California-licensed contractor with a "C-21" license can obtain a permit to demolish any structure. California licensed contractors with "B" license can demolish any structure (only if the structure is going to be replaced) and disassemble/re-assemble any building. For owner-occupied residences, the owner can apply for a demolition permit.

Are some projects ineligible for an exemption?

Yes. Regardless of how much money is spent on remodeling, the following types of projects must allot 20% of the project cost [computed without the cost of making features (1)-(6) accessible] on making features(1)-(6) accessible:

  1. Office buildings and passenger vehicle service stations which are three or more stories in height and accommodating 3,000 or more sq. ft. per floor.
  2. Offices of physicians and surgeons.
  3. Shopping centers (defined as one or more retail stores).
  4. Other buildings three or more stories in height and accommodating more than 3,000 sq. ft. per floor, if a reasonable portion of services sought by the public is available on the accessible level.

How do I arrange for a plumbing inspection?

Call the Inspection Services recorder at 723 -CITY to request a plumbing inspection when the plumbing work is completed. No work is to be concealed without inspection approval. Please refer to the Inspection Recorder handout when calling for an inspection.

How long does the process take?

The completeness, accuracy and complexity of your submittal will determine how long it will take to complete a first review and correction list. First review is completed within 3-6 weeks. Incomplete applications will generally result in a longer time frame.

What does the permit cost?
Fees for mechanical permits are itemized and based on the types and quantities of mechanical systems involved. For more information, refer to the Fee Information handout available at the Inspection Services counter.

What the purpose of a demolition Permit?
The purpose of a demolition Permit is to enable the City to monitor any works or activities performed within the City for public safety. The permit also assures that plans comply with the San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Pollution Control District (SJVUAPCD) regulations. The SJVUAPCD regulations will address issues such as asbestos and other hazardous materials

When is a demolition permit required?
Before demolition of any structure, a demolition permit must be obtained from the Inspection Services. The applicant can also choose to contact the Fire Department to obtain permit through the "Structure Abatement Program". Demolition Permit forms are available at the Inspection Services counter.

When is handicap access required?
If alterations or structural repairs, change of occupancy, change of use, or additions are made to an existing building, the building is required to comply with all the handicap access code requirements for a new building. The access requirements shall apply only to the area of specific alteration, structural repair, change of use/occupancy, or addition. Required handicap access areas include:

  • entrances to the building or facility and the primary path of travel to the specific area of alteration, structural repair, addition, or change of use/occupancy.
  • sanitary facilities, drinking fountains, and public telephones serving the area.

Who approves public works encroachment permit application?

The City Engineer or the Permit Technician approves the application depending on the type of project or activity.

Who can apply for the permit?

The property owner, a California-licensed contractor, or an authorized agent can apply for a building permit. However, only a California-licensed contractor can perform the work.

Who issues the permit and how long does it take?

Plumbing permits are issued by Inspection Services counter staff and most permits are issued while you wait. Other plumbing permits that are part of new construction will take longer depending on the type of project.

Who issues the permit and how long does it take?

Electrical permits are issued by Inspection Services counter staff and most permits are issued while you wait. Other electrical permits that are part of new construction will take longer depending on the type of project.

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