City of Hollister

The city's application and submittal materials state permits are required when buildings or structures are constructed, altered, repaired, moved, converted, or demolished, subject to code exemptions.

• Exempt Small detached accessory structures under the code threshold
• Exempt Certain low fences and retaining walls
• Exempt Minor finish work such as painting, papering, cabinets, and countertops
• Exempt Some small accessory platforms or walks

Note: Because Hollister adopted the 2025 California Building Standards Code in full, standard California permit exemptions generally apply unless local conditions or other codes trigger review. Mechanical, plumbing, and electrical exemptions are narrower; even seemingly minor swaps can require permits if they affect safety systems, structural elements, fire/life-safety components, or code-required equipment. Verify exemptions with the Building Division before starting work. Zoning, floodplain, historic, fire, accessibility, and utility requirements can still apply even where a building permit is not required.

Building code

2025 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, adopted by Ordinance No. 1264 on September 15, 2025

Permit validity

Applications remain active for 180 days from receipt; extensions of up to 180 days may be granted at the Building Official's discretion if requested 30 days before expiration. Issued permits are valid for 365 days from issuance or the last passing inspection; extensions may be granted at the Building Official's discretion if requested 30 days before expiration.

Owner-builder

Owner-builders must complete the city's owner-builder acknowledgment. The form warns that owner-builders remain the responsible party of record, may assume employer and liability obligations, and generally cannot build a single-family residence for sale unless the work is performed by licensed contractors within the limits of California law.

Contractor requirements

The application requires either a California contractor license declaration or a signed exemption basis. The form cites Business and Professions Code section 7031.5 and notes permit applicants may face civil penalties up to $500 for violations.

Source: City of Hollister Community Development Department, Building Division ↗

1. 01
   Schedule a submittal appointment through the Community Development Permit Center booking link; walk-in submittals are accepted, but appointments get priority.
2. 02
   Submit the building permit application and associated forms. Applications are processed chronologically by date received.
3. 03
   Provide required construction documents if the scope requires plan review. Typical submittals include site plans, floor plans, and supporting documents.
4. 04
   Pay the required plan review deposit at the scheduled submittal appointment if formal plan review applies.
5. 05
   The city reviews the package for compliance with the California Building Code, Fire Code, Energy Code, and local municipal requirements; corrections may be issued.
6. 06
   After approval, the city issues an invoice for permit issuance fees and provides payment instructions.
7. 07
   Once fees are paid, the permit is issued; the permit card must be posted at the job site.
8. 08
   Schedule required inspections during construction and obtain final approval or a certificate of occupancy, if applicable.

Typical processing time: Minimum of 15 business days for plan review, plus 24 to 48 hours for processing.

Source: City of Hollister Community Development Department, Building Division ↗

The application states permit issuance fees are invoiced after plan approval, with payment instructions provided. The Community Development page says appointments are strongly recommended for permit pick-ups or payments, though walk-ins are accepted with lower priority.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• (831) 636-4355 (phone)

Typical sequence: Posted permit card; inspections at required stages of construction; correction notices if needed; final approval and certificate of occupancy when applicable.

Source: City of Hollister Community Development Department, Building Division ↗