CAMPAIGN
Permits that you can get issued in-person at the Permit Center
CAMPAIGN
Permits that you can get issued in-person at the Permit Center
At the Permit Center, you can get an "over-the-counter" (or OTC) rapid review for most simple projects. This is when staff review your completed application materials in person and in real time.
Service at the Permit Center closes at 5:00 PM and the queues may close early due to high volumes. We suggest arriving early.
Commercial projects
Contact businesspermithelp@sfgov.org for help with commercial projects. For many projects, you may be able to submit online for a more streamlined review.
Interior improvements eligible for over-the-counter permits
Making tenant improvements at:
- Bars
- Retail stores
- Businesses selling only pre-packaged food
- Gyms or Fitness Studios (without saunas or pools)
- Offices
- Art galleries
- Salons
Applying for:
Installing or changing:
Or:
Get more information about applying for an over-the-counter building permit for a tenant improvement.
Exterior improvements eligible for over-the-counter permits
Or:
- Using sidewalk space
Residential projects
Permit types eligible for over-the-counter permit issuance. Check if your small residential project requires a permit.
Existing home repairs and remodels
- Making minor interior changes (remodel)
- Bolting foundations
Exterior changes
Adding or changing:
- Deck
- Door
- Fence
- Retaining wall
- Roofs
- Shed
- Siding
- Windows
Or:
- Making some rear additions
Get more information about applying for an over-the-counter building permit for a exterior change to your home.
The lists above may not include every single project that can get issued OTC, but generally what kinds can be. If your permit application isn't complete, staff at the Permit Center may need more time to review it.
For more complex projects
About
This page is a resource from PermitSF, reforming the City’s permitting process to make it customer-centric, fast, predictable, transparent and unified.
Partner agencies
Contact information
Address
2nd floor
San Francisco, CA 94103
We are closed on public holidays. Plan Review and Print Center queues will close at 4:30pm, but payments will be accepted until 5pm.