What work requires a permit from the Building Division?
Generally, permits are required for the following:
New buildings
Additions to buildings
Tenant improvements
Accessory Dwelling Unit conversions
Miscellaneous items (decks, patios, fences over 6’, fireplaces, pools, retaining walls, ADA striping and path of travel, etc.)
Remodels and renovations (changes in occupancy or use, garage conversions, kitchen remodels, stucco, window(s) and door(s) changeouts, etc.)
New, expanded, or replaced electrical items
New, expanded, or replaced mechanical items
New, expanded, or replaced plumbing items
Why do I need to apply for a building permit?
A building permit is a license that grants legal permission to start construction of a building project. Permits allow the enforcement of the codes that have been adopted as law by the State of California and they provide the means for code officials to inspect construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used. You have an investment in the home or business you are about to build or remodel; when that home or business building does not comply with the codes, your investment could be reduced. The City cannot design or prepare your documents for you. If you do not know how to prepare construction documents then you should consider hiring a licensed contractor, designer, licensed architect, or licensed engineer.
I am a contractor working on a project in the City of Fullerton, but my business is headquartered outside Fullerton.' Am I subject to any business tax/business license fees?
The City of Fullerton requires any person conducting, managing, carrying on or engaging in any business, trade, profession, or occupation in the City of Fullerton, obtain a business registration certificate from the City prior to beginning any business activity.
When did the current California building codes go into effect?
The building codes currently being observed are the 2019 California building codes; these became effective January 1, 2020.
I filed my building permit application prior to January 1, 2020, but did not obtain my permit prior to January 1, 2020. Will my project have to comply with the 2019 building codes?
Your project may comply with the 2016 building codes that were in effect when you submitted your application, provided you obtain your permit before the expiration date of your application.
Where can I purchase a copy of the 2019 California building codes?
The 2019 California building codes are available for purchase through the International Code Council at www.iccsafe.org. Please note that the proper reference name for these documents is the California Building Standards Code. It is also known as Title 24, California Code of Regulations. This group of codes includes many parts such as building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy, elevator and historical building code provisions. It also includes special administrative requirements for schools, essential buildings and medical clinics. You may wish to purchase all or only a portion of these documents as your needs dictate.
What does a complete set of plans include for new buildings and additions?
In general, plans should include:
Site plan - showing setbacks from property lines
Foundation plan
Floor plans
Structural plans
Elevations (front, rear, and side views. Show existing grade and structure height.)
Cross-Section of the building
When may I start building?
The building codes, as empowered by the State of California Health and Safety codes, are clear that no construction is allowed until the permit is issued. Once the permit application and accompanying plans have been submitted, the Building & Safety division will review and process the plans. Following approval of the plan and payment of fees, a permit will be issued.
I have a permit for a custom home and I want to make some changes but keep the project on schedule. What is the best practice with respect to changes?
When design decisions or changes are made and you have a permit from the Building & Safety division, the "right" thing to do is to wait for the architect to revise the drawings, and then submit the revisions to the Building & Safety division for approval. Not waiting for "approved" revisions from the division is always a recipe for inspection problems and more delays.
Who may apply for a building permit?
Property owners, licensed contractors or authorized agents may apply for a building permit. Contractors must provide a Certificate of Workers Compensation Insurance. Property owners doing their own work are required by State law to sign the Owner-Builder Verification stating that they are actually doing their own work and are exempt from the requirement of having Workers Compensation Insurance, or they will be required to provide a certificate of insurance.
I am installing an in-ground swimming pool. Do I need a permit?
Yes, you will need a building permit for your pool and an electrical permit to run the appliances necessary to clean the pool or to have lights.
I am putting up a sign for my business. Do I need a permit?
Yes--you will need a building permit for your sign and an electrical permit if it is a lit sign.
I am tearing down an old house before starting my new one. Do I need a permit?
Yes--you will need a permit to demolish your old building.
I am only changing my electrical service. Do I need a permit?
Yes--you will need to have this inspected before the power company will begin your service.
Can construction work occur on a holiday?
Construction standards shall comply with Noise Standards and Regulations as stated under Fullerton Municipal Code Chapter 15.90.' Noise sources associated with construction, repair, remodeling, or grading of any property shall be exempt from the noise level standards specified in Chapter 15.90 of the Fullerton Municipal Code provided they take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on any day except Sunday or a City-recognized holiday.
