As a help to property owners, the City has compiled a list of some typical home improvement projects that require permits.  Please keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list.  If the work you would like to do is not listed here, please contact the Building Division at (760) 955-5100 to inquire about permit requirements.

• Additions or alterations to existing mechanical, plumbing, or electrical
• Decks/balconies, over 30" in height
• Demolition of buildings (both interior and exterior demolition)
• Fences, over 3' in height, or 18" in front yard
• Garage conversions
• Gazebos, over 120 square feet
• Guest houses
• Installation of new HVAC unit(s)
• Lawn sprinklers
• Mobile home carport, awning
• Mobile home set down
• New garages or carports
• Patio covers, if attached or over 120 square feet
• Patio enclosures
• Re-roofing over 1 square (100 square feet)
• Retaining or garden walls, over 18" in height, or 30" in height with no footing
• Room additions
• Septic tank replacement
• Sewer hookup
• Slab with footings (residential on-site flat concrete work such as sidewalks or driveways do not require permits; for curb-cutting or driveway approaches visit the Engineering Division for more information)
• Solar panels (photovoltaic systems)
• Storage sheds, over 120 square feet
• Swimming pools or spas, 18" deep or deeper
• Water heater installations/change-outs
• Upgrading or relocating electrical services