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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Daly City
permits for work that alters/constructs/remodels in most categories; examples include accessory building work, additions, decks, patio enclosures/decks, retaining walls, rooms, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, furnace/water heater replacement, kitchen/bathroom remodels, and roof/siding/window/siding work.
Note: Caveat: absence from the examples is not automatically an exemption�confirm exemptions through city/county planning if uncertain.
- permit application or roofing permit application PDF + credit card authorization + supporting docs/plans
- for plans, plans must demonstrate scope, details, and support review
- e-mail submission accepted.
- Building code
- 2025 California Building Standards Code in effect for permits on/after 1/1/2026; Daly City also applies local amendments under Title 15.
- Permit validity
- permits can expire if inspections are not completed; expired permits may require extension/renewal/reinstatement and trigger additional fees.
- Owner-builder
- Homeowners may use owner-builder permit pathway; still must meet all code requirements and signed Owner-Builder Disclosure Form is required.
- Contractor requirements
- projects with labor+materials > $500 require a licensed contractor per state law. Owner may self-apply only where allowed.
Source: Building Division, Department of Economic and Community Development, City of Daly City ↗
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Determine if your work is permit-eligible (California Building Code actions: alter, construct, convert, demolish, enlarge, erect, improve, move, remove, repair).
- 02 For quick permit work, submit via the portal if eligible. For many maintenance applications, also accepted via email or in person.
- 03 For permits requiring plans, submit permit application + credit card authorization (and any support docs/plans) by email.
- 04 For most plan-review permits, initial plan review target is 15 working days from routing.
- 05 Permit may be issued in person at Building Division during business hours (Mon�Fri 8:00am�5:00pm; Wednesdays 9:00am�5:00pm) and scheduled with staff on that basis.
Source: Building Division, Department of Economic and Community Development, City of Daly City ↗
Fee schedule
Daly City building permit fees
credit-card-only for many permit channels; checks accepted for some mailed/fax submissions; temporary certificates of occupancy carry required deposit/processing fees.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Tyler EnerGov / Self-Service portal (online)
- 650-991-8061 (phone)
- Time windows
- in-person contact and normal counter hours are Mon�Fri 8:00am�5:00pm (Wednesdays 9:00am�5:00pm) via Building Division.
Typical sequence: foundation/framing, insulation/airspace, drywall, final, etc. (project dependent; final inspection required before completion).
Source: Building Division, Department of Economic and Community Development, City of Daly City ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Daly City permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Daly City, CA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Daly City, CA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Daly City, CA? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Daly City, CA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Division, Department of Economic and Community Development, City of Daly City before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.