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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Scotts Valley
The city states that building applications should be submitted through the permit portal for work that changes structures or systems, including new construction, additions, remodels, and related trades.
- Exempt Fences not over eight feet under the city's modified work-exempt-from-permit framework
Note: The city pages reviewed surfaced only a limited local exemption example. Confirm the current full exemption scope in the municipal code, especially the local modification of CBC Section 105.2.
- Permit application
- Plan submittals
- Cost documentation
- Grading, septic, or equipment forms when required
- Special inspection forms
- Minimum plan requirement materials
- Owner-builder Notice and Verification, Owner Declaration, Owner Agent Form, and Owner-Builder Handout when applicable
- Building code
- 2025 California Building Codes are in effect as of January 1, 2026, with local municipal code adoption provisions referencing Title 24.
- Permit validity
- There is a 180-day plan-check activity limit from the application date, inspections must occur at least every 180 days after permit issuance, and one six-month extension may be requested in writing before expiration.
- Owner-builder
- The city allows owner-builder applicants and publishes owner-builder-specific paperwork.
- Contractor requirements
- The city allows either owner-builder work or licensed contractors.
Application process
Typical processing: The city does not publish a fixed permit review SLA; inspection appointment confirmation is stated as 24 to 48 hours.
- 01 Register or log in to the online permit portal.
- 02 Submit permit applications and all required plans and documents.
- 03 Pay permit and related fees online or by the city's other payment options.
- 04 Track application status and permit issuance in the portal.
- 05 Request inspections in the portal when work reaches inspection stages.
- 06 Confirm inspection requests within 24 to 48 hours.
Typical processing time: The city does not publish a fixed permit review SLA; inspection appointment confirmation is stated as 24 to 48 hours.
Fee schedule
Effective FY 2025-26
Online portal credit card payments carry a 3% processing fee; paper or mailed check payment is also accepted.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective FY 2025-26) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Portal Dashboard (online)
- svbuild@scottsvalley.gov (email)
- 831-440-5641 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- The permit portal is available 24/7.
Typical sequence: Portal workflow is log in, open the application, request the inspection, specify the inspection in notes, and use + New Appointment; the inspector may adjust the inspection type.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Scotts Valley permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Scotts Valley, CA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Scotts Valley, CA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Scotts Valley, CA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Scotts Valley, CA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Scotts Valley, CA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Scotts Valley, CA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Department, City of Scotts Valley before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.