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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for East Palo Alto
New buildings, additions, new construction, garage conversions, and legalization of existing structures require planning review before building permit issuance; ADUs require zoning clearance before building submission (Planning FAQ). Planning says many tenant-improvements/remodels/re-roof projects generally do not need planning review unless adding square footage/facade changes.
Note: City notes exempt items may still need Planning, Engineering, or other agency review; emergency repairs still need permit application submitted within next business day for code-required scenarios.
- Building Permit Application (building_permit_application.pdf), digital plan set/PDF requirements, supporting documentation, and signatures/declarations (owner-builder or licensed contractor). Construction documents should follow digital submittal checklist.
- Building code
- 2025 California Building Codes are linked as applicable; permit forms reference 2022 CBC and 2022 California Residential Code section 105.2 for some exempt-work definitions.
- Permit validity
- Development Code indicates permits/approvals are expected to be exercised within 24 months of approval unless otherwise specified; any construction pause of 120+ days can cause expiration. Continuation/extension requests must be filed at least 30 days prior to expiration with applicable fee.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder declaration option exists; if owner does the work, the declaration of exemption is required under CBC 105.2/Code 2025 references. Owner-builder cannot employ others except own employees with wages-only compensation for license-law exemption claims.
- Contractor requirements
- City requires license declaration; contractors must be licensed under California Contractors State License Law or provide legal exemption. City warns unlicensed work may trigger penalties and report to CSLB.
Application process
Typical processing: 30-day review period noted for formal submittals; two-week rechecks for resubmittals if needed; initial fees cover three (3) plan reviews.
- 01 Complete required application form(s) and supporting documents (e.g., Building Permit Application, site plan, related reports) and submit to building@cityofepa.org for processing.
- 02 Staff reviews and contacts applicant within 2 business days with next steps.
- 03 Formal plan-review submission begins: plans routed to reviewing divisions/consultants; initial reviews (City references 30-day review period).
- 04 Applicant responds to comments and resubmits as needed (rechecks/rounds).
- 05 Once all approvals are received and required plan corrections are made, a permit is issued.
Typical processing time: 30-day review period noted for formal submittals; two-week rechecks for resubmittals if needed; initial fees cover three (3) plan reviews.
Fee schedule
East Palo Alto building permit fees
City staff indicate check/cash/money order accepted; no credit/debit cards. Planning and building pages emphasize payment by check made out to �City of East Palo Alto� for submitted applications.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Email-based intake; no dedicated public permit portal listed on Building Services page (online)
- 650-853-3189 (phone)
- Time windows
- Building permit counter Mondays/Tues/Thurs, 9:00am-11:45am and 1:00pm-3:45pm (lunch 12-1); permit center windows also include virtual/appointment days Wed/Fri. Inspections requested by phone for available weekdays as posted on handout.
Typical sequence: request inspection type (permit must have job card and approved plans onsite), then staging inspections (rough/system, framing, under-slab, slab, foundation, electrical/plumbing/mechanical, windows/insulation, final inspection). Final inspection required before occupancy; utility release may wait until final approval.
Frequently asked
Common questions about East Palo Alto permits
01 Do I need a building permit in East Palo Alto, CA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in East Palo Alto, CA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in East Palo Alto, CA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in East Palo Alto, CA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in East Palo Alto, CA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Services Division (City of East Palo Alto) and Permit Center / Community & Economic Development Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.