The Building Division has a handout entitled "Required Permits" (pdf) that lists items and projects that require a building permit. This handout can be accessed through the link above, mailed to you or you may pick one up during our regular office hours.

Over-the-counter permits are permits that can be issued without the need for plan review. Some types of over-the-counter permits are: re-roofs, water heater, furnace and A/C repair/replacements, electric service panel upgrades, and other miscellaneous repairs. For over-the-counter types of building permits, you may print out the permit application from the Forms Section of this website and fax it to our department for processing or visit Accela Citizen Access™. You will need to appear in person to pay for the permit once you have received a call that it is ready to be issued.

Yes, a building permit is required. The permit can be issued over the counter and only takes a few minutes. The cost of the permit is based on the valuation of the work, including material and labor costs.

If it is a plug cord connected spa/hot tub, the only permit required is for any new electrical work needed to operate the spa/hot tub. If it is a hardwired electrical connection spa/hot tub, permits are required for the spa, electrical work, and plumbing work.

A building permit is required if the deck is more than 30 inches above grade, and planning department approval is required for decks 18 inches or more.

The required inspections are listed on your copy of the permit. All work must be inspected before it is covered up. For example, we must inspect the footing/foundation after it is excavated; installation of steel reinforcement, before concrete is poured. A minimum of twenty-four hours notice is required prior to each inspection.Inspections can be requested by calling 707.778.4479.

Yes, dry rot repair does require a permit. It takes only a few minutes to complete the permit application and state, in writing, the scope of work. Most of the time a copy of the termite report is adequate. The permit fee is based on the valuation of the work, including material and labor costs.

No. The ceiling joist or the lower cord of the trusses is not designed to support storage loads.

dual glaze windows?
If the window(s) size remains the same and no new openings are added and windows are not converted to doors a permit is not required. The Planning Division should be consulted to ensure that the replacemet window(s) comply with the associated guidelines. (i.e. Historic Districts)

now their rainwater runs into my yard. What can the Building Division do about this?
Lot-to-lot drainage is a civil matter and the Building Division is not involved. Landscaping and the re-grading for landscaping do not require a permit.

The cost of the permit depends on the type and size of the project. The fees are calculated on the total valuation of the project (based on a Uniform Building Code formula) as well as the amount of plumbing, mechanical and electrical work associated with the project.

Plan check can take 15-20 days to complete the process. Applicants should refer to the Plan Check Turn-Around Time handout for more information.

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Black/white aerial photographs were taken in June, 2000. Both b/w and color were taken in 2006.

Yes, a Fence Permit(pdf) from the Community Development Department is required. Please note that the height, style, and location of fencing is regulated by the zoning district in which your property is located. The Planning Division will assist you in obtaining the required information.

By contacting the Permit Processing Technician in the Community Development Department (707-778-4470), and giving him/her your address, you can learn the regulations for your property regarding height, setbacks, lot coverage, and design review, as applicable.

The City does have a Heritage Tree Ordinance, and invites property owners to nominate their tree(s) to the register, so that they can be protected from removal. The City also requires a permit to remove trees in the public right-of-way (usually trees in the planter strip between the curb and sidewalk). Tree removal permits are available from the Community Development Department.

No. Although many parts of California, including Petaluma, are subject to earthquakes, earthquake zones are specifically designated areas based on information from the State Department of Mines and Geology. Petaluma is not in a designated earthquake zone.

The City keeps on file the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM). Please contact a Permit Processing Technician and give him/her your address to determine if you are in the floodplain.

Potentially. This depends on the General Plan land use designation and zoning district in which your property is located (which regulates minimum lot size). Contact the Permit Processing Technician in the Community Development Department (707.778.4470), and give him/her your address, you will be contacted with the regulations for the property in question.