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The Permit Process

Application
Plan Check
Inspection

 

Related Information

The Permit Process

Application

Building Permit applications are available to download on the Applications & Handouts page or can be obtained and filled out in the Building and Life Safety Division in the Community Development Department.

 

Building Permits

Construction projects typically require a building permit, plan check, and inspections. Building permits are required when any type of construction that will change or add structure to an existing property and for work regulated by City codes or ordinances, such as:

  • New Buildings (dwellings, sheds, carports)
  • Additions (buildings, swimming pools, decks over 30 inches above grade, retaining walls, patio covers)
  • Alterations beyond cosmetic changes, such as converting garages to living space
  • Moving or demolishing a building
  • Repairs involving structural members
  • Installation of heating or air conditioning equipment
  • Changing in use of a structure
  • Re-roofing or new roof covering
  • Signs
  • Site development

When submitting a building permit, you must complete a Building Permit Application. 

  • Cost is based on the valuation of the proposed construction project, as determined by the type of construction, size of the project, and specific use of the buildings or structure.
  • All plan check fees are payable at the time of application submittal.

Construction can begin only after the permit is issued and must commence within 365 days. Construction may not stop completely for more than 180 days. If these time periods are exceeded, the permit will automatically expire and a new application for a building permit may be necessary.

 

Express Review Program

The Express Review Program is a personalized service to expedite building permits for residential homeowners, small businesses, and contractors. Building permits that meet the criteria are listed on the Building Express Review Form.

 

Plan Check

City Plan examiners review plans submitted with a building permit application and may request design changes to comply with City regulations and building codes. The time required for a plan check depends on the size and complexity of the project.  

 

A complete set of plans varies by project and type but must include:

  • cover sheet
  • site plan
  • foundation plan
  • floor plan
  • elevations (front, rear and side views)
  • roof plan
  • cross-section (floor, wall, and roof)
  • details of critical connections
  • construction details
  • mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans
  • material specifications
  • energy/insulation requirements
  • Building Plan Review - Projected Cycle Times

Before submitting plans, please ensure that the use, size, height and location of the building on the development site conforms with the City's Zoning Code. Verify the location of any public utility easements on the building site, as construction is not allowed on or over such easements.

 

Electronic Plan Check

The City's Building Division utilizes Electronic Plan Check (EPC) in lieu of traditional paper-based submittals. All plan review submittals must be submitted via electronic media.

 

Required for all project types needing plan review i.e., residential, commercial, small projects, and solar:

  • Use Flash drive.
  • Electronic files must be formatted correctly; refer to EPC Guide.
  • Initial submittals may be made in person at the Permit Center or emailed to plancheck@stocktonca.gov
  • All resubmittals may be emailed to the assigned plan checker
  • Once approved, fees may be paid and permits issued electronically or may be picked up in person at the Permit Center.

 

Inspections

All building permits require an inspection conducted by our trained, certified inspectors to review:

  • footings, foundation, and structural systems
  • mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
  • insulation,  drywall, and roofing systems

Building inspections ensure construction meets all municipal ordinances and state building codes. Building inspections also ensure that new or remodeled buildings are constructed according to the plans approved by the Community Development Department.

 

Commercial projects are issued orange inspection cards. Residential projects are issued green inspection cards.  

 

Scheduling Process

Use the 'Schedule Online Inspection" link below or call the 24-hour automated phone line.

Request inspections for the next working day prior to 3 p.m. Requests made after 3 p.m. will be scheduled for the second working day following. Due to higher than normal inspection volume, next day inspections may not be possible. Please plan accordingly by scheduling at least two days in advance to meet your requested date. 

To be contacted by the inspector prior to inspection, please leave a detailed message. The message should include information such as contact name, contact phone number, and any special instructions, such as if a time frame is needed, if the contact needs 1-hour notice prior to inspection or if there is a gate code, etc.

 

All building inspections are included in the permit fee.

 

Any questions about the Permit Process?

Contact Us or email us using Ask Stockton.

 

 

External Links

There are currently no external links.

This City of Stockton web page last reviewed on --- 4/3/2023