Santa Clara, CA Building Permit Guide

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Santa Clara.

Department

Community Development Department, Building Division / Permit Center

Address

1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050

Phone

(408) 615-2420

Email

permitcenter@santaclaraca.gov

Website

https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our-city/departments-a-f/community-development/building-division

Online Permit Portal

Application Process

1. Apply online through the Permitting Online Portal.
2. Select the permit type and complete the application.
3. Upload plans and supporting documents. The City routes plans to other reviewing departments as needed (Fire, Planning, Public Works, Water and Sewer Utilities, Silicon Valley Power).
4. Staff reviews for completeness and code compliance, then issues corrections if needed.
5. Pay assessed fees once invoiced.
6. Permit is issued after approvals and payment; work then proceeds to required inspections.

Source: Community Development Department, Building Division / Permit Center

General Requirements

A permit is generally required before starting new buildings, additions, alterations, repairs, demolitions, and changes in use/occupancy.

Required Documents

• Completed permit application
• Plans and supporting documents uploaded through the portal

Permit validity

Building permits are valid for 365 days from issuance or the last passed inspection. If a permit expires before completion, new work may resume only after a new permit is obtained unless an extension is approved.

Building code

California Building Code

Fees

Minimum permit fee

$238.00 (bathroom remodel or water heater same location, like for like)

Plan check fee

Expedited plan review adds 50% of the regular plan review fee

Permit fee formula

Per the City's fee schedule; varies by permit type

Trade permit fee

Electrical service upgrade (200 amps or less) $238.00; residential re-roof $694.00; foundation repair/voluntary seismic upgrade $357.00

Payment note

$98.00 permit issuance fee assessed for each building permit issued; 3.37% technology fee applies to several fee categories; state seismic/building standards fees may apply based on valuation.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

• Detached accessory structures under 120 square feet
• Decks not over 30 inches high
• Fences not over 7 feet high
• Retaining walls not more than 4 feet high, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall

Important: Regardless of shed size, new electrical circuits, outlets, receptacles, or similar electrical work require a building permit/electrical permit. Permit exemptions can depend on scope, utilities, zoning setbacks, and other trade permits. Confirm with the Permit Center before treating work as exempt.

Inspections

How to Schedule

• Permitting Online Portal (online)

Typical inspection sequence: After permit issuance, applicants schedule required inspections through the City's inspection scheduling system. Work must not be concealed before required inspections are approved. Final approval is required before occupancy/use where applicable.

Additional Resources

• Building code: California Building Code
• Verify contractor license: CSLB License Lookup
• Minor Residential Fees Reference Sheet
• Scheduling Inspections
• License lookup guide: California Contractor License Requirements
• Contract template: California Homeowner-Contractor Agreement

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