Building Department

Building Department Frequently Asked Questions

What is a permit and why would I need one?

A building permit gives you legal permission to start a building, improvement, alteration or repair project in accordance with the building codes. There are several reasons why you should get a permit:

When do I need a permit?

A permit is required for all alterations, additions, repairs and replacements of a building or structure and any associated components such as electrical, mechanical and plumbing. This includes minor things such as replacing windows, exterior doors, fixed appliances, fixtures, re-roofs, etc... THINGS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE A PERMIT are non-retaining walls 2 feet or less, playground equipment, cabinetry, shelving, floor coverings, painting and other similar cosmetic changes. If you are unsure whether a permit is required, call the Building Department at (661) 763-1222 extension 22.

What could happen if I don't obtain a permit?

There a several reasons why its imperative that you get a permit when one is required:

• Costly investigation fees could be assessed for work that has been done without permits.
  
• Insurance companies do not normally insure property that has been improved without permits.
  
• The illegal work performed may create unsafe or hazardous conditions that could result in injury or even death.
  
• Work done without a permit is considered illegal and substandard.
  
• It is unlawful to perform work without a permit and is punishable by law.
  
• The process to obtain a permit after the fact is the same as the process to obtain a permit in the first place. Two sets of plans must be submitted to the Planning Department for review. Once they are approved by the Planning Department they are submitted for Building and Safety plan check for additions, accessory structures, and major remodeling. After approved by both departments, the permit will be issued. Then the work will have to be exposed for inspection this includes foundations, slabs, framing, electrical, plumbing and mechanical work.

How do I obtain a permit?

For minor miscellaneous permits you or your contractor would need to come down to City Hall during business hours and fill out a permit application form. We would collect the appropriate fees and issue the permit.

For additions, remodels, patio covers and new construction you would bring two sets of plans with calculations and specifications if needed (depending on the scope of work) to City Hall and fill out an application form.

• The Planning Department will review your plans for zoning and setback requirements.
  
• After approval from the Planning Department, plans are submitted to the Building Department for structural plan check and compliance with all applicable building codes. Minor projects may not require a plan check.
  
• After the Building Department approves the plans and all required outside agency approvals have been obtained, the permit can then be issued and work can begin.

When is a plan check required?

New buildings

• All additions
• Extensive remodels
• Accessory structures such as patio covers, gazebos, etc.
• Tenant improvements
• New pools
• Any project that requires engineered calculations

When are inspections required?

The general rule of thumb is to call for inspection before you cover anything up. Typical inspections include underground plumbing & electrical, footing, foundation, slab, rough framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, sheetrock nailing, roof sheathing, gas tests, etc... All projects large and small require a final inspection so that the permit can be “finaled” and completed. Equipment such as water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, dishwashers, etc. require inspection after they have been installed. A permit without inspections expires after 180 days and is considered void. All inspections must be completed and the permit finalized for work to be considered legal.

How do I arrange for an inspection?

Call the Building Department at (661) 763-1222 ext. 22 or 10 for the receptionist, to schedule an inspection. Be prepared to leave the address of the project, permit number, type of inspection, your name and your phone number. Inspections are conducted on a first-called, first-served basis. Allow at least 24 hours in advance and keep in mind that we are open Monday through Thursdays, 8 AM to 6 PM and Fridays by appointment only. We are closed on legal holidays.

Why is it important to final a permit?

A permit will expire and become null and void if the building or work authorized by such permit has not commenced within 180 days from the date of issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for more than 180 days. A permittee may request an extension if unable to commence work within 180 days when they are able to provide good and satisfactory reasons. If a permit has had rough inspections but has never had a final inspection and approval, the permit will expire and be null and void. All work done under the expired permit will be considered non-permitted, illegal and substandard. Upon sale of your house, a record search may reveal that a permit has not been finaled. This could hold up escrow. In order to final an expired permit, additional reinstatement fees equivalent to fifty (50) percent of the original permit cost will be assessed and a final inspection will need to be scheduled. When final inspection has been performed and all corrections made, then the permit (and work) will be “finaled” and approved.